By Ashton Songer

Just across from the ocean and at the heart of Carolina Beach is the Fat Pelican, a quirky bar where tourists and locals tend to flock. For regulars, it’s a harbor for good beer and great storytelling. And for Shannon Musselwhite, the “Fat P” means family.

The Fat Pelican was a point of instant connection for Musselwhite when she discovered it after moving to the area 15 years ago. Over the years, her experiences at the bar have changed, but never the sense of community and belonging. And since she has become a mother, Musselwhite appreciates that bar and family are one.