Back on the Field with the Silver Whales

 

Emerson started back in soccer last week through OYAA and is playing on the Silver Whales. There are quite a few new players this season. Winnie was there cheering them on with us for week one, and Kit joined us for week two. We’ve really lucked out with the weather so far—great mornings to be out on the field.

First College Visit: University of Cincinnati

 

Kit and I visited the University of Cincinnati—our first college visit in the books! We both really liked UC and all it has to offer. Kit was especially surprised by how safe the campus felt.

It’s well known for its nursing program and outstanding co-op opportunities, and we both feel like it has a lot to offer in terms of education, opportunities, and a strong setup for a future career.

After the visit, we stopped by the book store (she can't pass up a good sweatshirt!) and ate at Shake Shack, which was amazing.

Columbus Cheer Expo

 

Winnie and her Lady Nukes team competed at the Cheer Expo at the Greater Columbus Convention Center this past Saturday and Sunday. Even with a flyer injured and a substitute stepping in for parts of the routine, they did a great job. She enjoyed a well-earned slice from Mikey's Late Nite Slice afterward.

Backyard Shenanigans

 

Emerson and Vinnie have a blast together. Seth got the trampoline set up on Saturday, and it quickly became a neighborhood hub for hours of wrestling. By Sunday, the boys requested the sprinkler underneath—you would think it would be freezing, but they didn't seem to mind one bit!

SMES Art Show

After Emerson’s soccer practice, we headed to Shale Meadows to catch the art show. It was a treat to see his featured pieces on display!

Closing Out Spring Break

 

Emerson certainly made the most of his final official day of spring break on Monday. After checking a quick haircut and a few light errands off the to-do list, he was ready to trade productivity for play. He, Vinnie, and Bryson patient as they waited for me to take them to SourcePoint to play ball. 

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 went to Driftwood Beach to explore more and watch the sun go down. 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. Emerson had a fun encounter with a boy we dubbed “Georgia Bryson”—a southern, slightly older version of our neighbor back home. This kid seemed to know his sea and sand creatures. Seth and I enjoyed a beach walk to soak it all in.

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!

Morning at Driftwood Beach

 

Driftwood Beach was just a 5-minute walk from our condo. The landscape is so unique—Kit even mentioned it was her favorite spot of the trip, even if the weathered trees and twisted branches felt a little spooky.

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!). Winnie shared that watching the sun come up over the water was her favorite part of the vacation. 

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.