Orlando, Day Two

 

On Friday, the Lady Nukes met up to take pictures, honor the two seniors, and share a lunch. They did a scavenger hunt before heading out to practice. Once back, they had pizza and ice cream. 

Now, they’re ready to compete!

Orlando, Day One

 

Winnie and I touched down in Orlando after a smooth Frontier flight and checked into the beautiful Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort. We kicked things off with a relaxing late lunch by the pool, complete with a visit from a local duck family.

After refueling, we took the shuttle to Disney Springs and walked around before heading over to the Disney Boardwalk. We enjoyed street performers and a wonderful dinner at Trattoria al Forno. After dinner, we caught a great view of the Epcot fireworks before heading back. 

First Goal of the Season

 

A rainy start didn’t keep Emerson from his first goal of the season at Liberty Park. Great job!

Kit Prepares for Her Hospital Job

 

It was a joy to spend Monday afternoon with Kit as she checked off her initial human resources milestones for OhioHealth. She met me at my office, and I was able to head out early so we could navigate all the prep work together before her mid-May orientation. 

She was determined to land a position in her chosen field, and I am so proud of her for reaching this goal. I can’t wait for her to officially start her journey with environmental services at Grady Memorial Hospital!

Spring Showcase

 

This past Sunday marked a major milestone with Winnie’s final MWX Showcase. It was an incredible day of performances, starting with her primary team, Lady Nukes, who did an amazing job on the mat. Winnie also performed with Aftershock, the bonus training team she opted into around the start of the year. 

The best part was the support from the audience. It was so special to have Grandma Jo, her dad, Johnny, and Sarah there with us to cheer her on. 

It was also great to have Johnny and Sarah over in the evening. 

Next up is the final competition of the season in Florida!

Kit's Junior Prom

Prom day kicked off with a PJ brunch at Madeline’s house, where the girls gathered to craft their own bouquets and boutonnieres—a perfect, creative start to the festivities.

Kit and Simon were such good sports, swinging by The Inn so Nana could catch a first glimpse of them all dressed up. The excitement grew as Grandma Jo, Bon Bon, Grandpa, and Grandma Lovie all gathered at our house to cheer on the stunning couple before they headed out.

The group photos took place at the NorthStar Golf Club, followed by a catered Olive Garden dinner at Emerson’s to fuel up for the night ahead. Then, it was off to Kemba  Live for the big dance! Kit reported that the night was a total blast—she even managed to get Simon out on the dance floor!

The celebration didn't end at the dance. The group headed to Gavin’s pool for an after-party, and eventually, the girls broke off for a post-prom sleepover. 

I loved that Kit came home and reported that she had the time of her life. 

Promposal

 

Simon did a dachshund-themed prom proposal for Kit this afternoon while they were off from class. It was simple, sweet, and perfect for her. They’re both excited for the festivities on Saturday.

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!