Good Friday

Seth and I enjoyed one final oceanfront sunrise and a quiet walk on the beach before we started packing to head back to Charlotte. As we transitioned from vacation mode back to the road, the kids had two specific requests for our return: a trip to Goodwill and attending the Good Friday service at Elevation Church.

After an early dinner at Chipotle, we made both happen. I had a good laugh when Winnie pointed out that the girls were imitating me stepping in place to get my movement in. But hey, even with a full day of travel, I still managed to hit my 10,000 steps!

Golden Hour Photos

Right after a simple dinner at the condo, we took a short walk over to Driftwood Beach. The scenery there is unique (and perfect for a busy boy’s exploring). The girls knew it was the perfect backdrop for a quick photo session. 

Island Rides

 

Today we explored more of Jekyll Island, including the lovely Faith Chapel in the Jekyll Island Club area. For lunch, we headed to Zachary’s Riverhouse and treated ourselves to some key lime pie for dessert.

We spent the afternoon back at Oceanview Beach—it was another gorgeous day. After a quick rest, we headed out again to rent bikes and explore the island on two wheels. The family had a good laugh at my expense over my ultra-white SPF face!

Exploring St. Simons

During the day, we explored St. Simons Island, which is a beautiful part of Georgia’s Golden Isles. We had lunch at Three Little Birds and checked out the lighthouse and the playground. We played on a whale sculpture—only to realize later it was actually an art installation! Oops.

We also spent a lovely afternoon on the beach there, soaking in the coastal scenery.

 

Sunrise on the Island

On Wednesday morning, Seth, Emerson, Winnie, and I headed out to the beach right at Villas by the Sea to watch the sunrise. It was absolutely beautiful, and we couldn’t have asked for better weather (this morning or the entire trip!). 

First Day at Jekyll Island

 

As soon as we arrived on beautiful Jekyll Island, we went straight to Oceanview Beach. It is so lovely and natural. Even without beach toys, Emerson found a way to make unique sand creations. 

For dinner, we found a beachfront Mexican restaurant with live music. 

Later, we played a few rounds of "golf" at the sticky, painted table at the condo (which was mostly just right for us!). 

I am thankful for these family times and the chance to slow down together.

Pit Stop at Buc-ee’s

En route to Jekyll Island, we had to stop at Buc-ee’s so the whole family could see what all the hype was about. Winnie got her beaver nuggets, and Kit grabbed a chopped brisket sandwich. We’re still laughing because Emerson keeps calling the place "Chucky Chip!"

Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

 

After lunch, we made it to the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist before closing. We caught an informational talk from a host who was well-versed in its history.

We spent the rest of the day relaxing with more swimming at the hotel, listening to some live music, and picking up treats from Savannah’s Candy Kitchen. Kit is now a praline fan!

Exploring Savannah on Foot

Savannah is captivating with its live oaks draped in Spanish moss, crepe myrtles, and southern magnolia trees. The unique architecture is such a highlight, and we found that walking was the best way to truly take in the blooms and the scenery.

Forsyth Park was gorgeous, and the weather couldn't have been better. We stopped for lunch at Collins Quarter right by the park, which was a fantastic experience. It was the perfect day to explore the city and enjoy the spring air.

Sunday in Savannah

 

We arrived in Savannah on Sunday afternoon, and the city was just lovely. We stayed at a Homewood Suites that featured a heated outdoor rooftop pool—a real treat with a view overlooking the river. For dinner, we headed to Vinnie Van Go-Go’s, where we had a great time enjoying the atmosphere and laughing at laughter we overheard from another table. 

Celebrating Tego & Elevation Church

On Saturday, we celebrated Tego’s fifth birthday a few days early. We all had a good laugh when he ate the (unlit) candle—my bad! After the party, he headed to the boarder, and we made our way to Charlotte.

On Sunday morning, we attended Elevation Church (a spontaneous decision on Saturday). It was a great experience, and the kids were troopers. They got up early and stayed energized so we could fit in the service before hitting the road for Savannah.

NY Capybara & St. Patrick's Day Trap

 

It was so thoughtful of Kit to bring Emerson back the cutest stuffed capybara all the way from New York. He loved it and returned the kindness with a bag of candy and sweet notes.

On St. Patrick’s Day, Emerson was fully prepared with his homemade leprechaun trap—carefully designed and full of hope. That is, until Tego got to it first and ate one of the marshmallows! 

A Winning Weekend in Lexington

 

Winnie and the Lady Nukes had a Saturday/Sunday competition in Lexington, Kentucky. It was a beautiful time to be there, with spring blooms and warmer temperatures making the weekend even more enjoyable.

There was even a little unexpected bonus—we ended up with a free Marriott hotel stay after having some trouble with the heat in our room.

Most of all, we’re so proud of the Lady Nukes. They hit zero both days and took first place in their category. Each girl took home a sweatshirt. Great job all around!

Kit’s NYC Choir Trip

 

Kit loved her New York City trip with the Olentangy Berlin Choir! They left on Wednesday, March 11, and returned Sunday, March 14.

The trip was packed with amazing experiences—a dance workshop with a cast member from Hamilton, a backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall where they even met a Rockette, and several Broadway shows including Maybe Happy Ending, Chess (where she even got Lea Michele’s autograph!), and The Outsiders.

They also explored the city with a Central Park walking tour, visited museums, walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, and stopped by Grand Central Terminal.  The choir also had the special opportunity to perform at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine.

Kit’s favorite part was definitely the musicals. So grateful she got to have this special experience with her choir friends—it’s one she’ll always remember.