Bikes at the Beach. Part III: Living and Riding in 3/4 time

Well, with our cycling adventures successful so far, it wasn't such a surprise to see this bikemobile outside a surf shop on Ocean Isle, the next island over. Just seemed to make sense. Turns out this is what some of the staff use to ride around the island.

Enough of the neighbor isle! Time to head back to Sunset!

Got to Stop Wishin'. Got to Start Fishin'.
One thing we wanted to be sure to do on the island is some pier fishing. We were renting rod and tackle, but wanted to bring a cooler to keep our catch cold. Again, it was time to prove the cyclist can tote odd things.

Let it be said that, over the course of two days, we caught some nice fish.  As the Dad, it was my job to filet those little swimmers and find a way to make 'em taste great. Let me just say that a little crumbled cracker crust and some butter goes a long way.

Spot and Virginia Mullet makes for a decent little meal.

Realizing I needed better equipment to filet the fish, I headed back to the pier and got a nice knife. I think it looks like a valuable new bike accessory.

Back to Bird Island and the Kindred Spirit Mailbox
Having made the trek once, it was time to head back to Bird Island and, this time, stop at the Kindred Spirit mailbox.
The mailbox is out on its own on the island. It is filled with journals and pens and people just write to the Kindred Spirit and read each other's notes. Been going on for years. Books have centered around the mailbox. It's as close to a big deal as you get on the island.

The ride to the end of the island brought us back to the Little River Inlet and we goofed around and watched the boats coming in and going out to the ocean. Gorgeous area.

Verdict
Yes, the kids' drivetrains are rusted. My son's chain is shot.
Yep, I took my bike apart. Cleaned it top to bottom. Sure, there's still some sand in some hard-to-reach spots. And, yes, I'll probably replace the chain in the coming month.
All that said, it was wonderful. Rode the bike on the beach. and to get groceries. and to fish. and to get the filet knife. and back all over the beach. I rode with my family. ALL my family. Win.