Surfside Beach, SC

This is a family vacation that has been much needed. Just the 6 of us, just our crazy fights and bickering---just our giggles and our agenda and our time together.
Today is day 3 and my favorite moments have been playing in the pool area with the kids. I have loved running around and chasing them in the lazy river, throwing them off of my shoulders, giving "rides" on my back. Ryan's favorite part has been jumping the waves with Ellie--getting slammed into  the ground. Ha- so fun. This week is so good for our family.

I loved this little porch area outside of a gas station on our way south from Cary. It just looks like it should be in the movies: with three old geysers sitting on the chairs chatting it up!

After we arrived it took us about 30 min. before we were in our suits and on the beach. So happy to be here!!

Big kids get to stay up late on vacation, and eat ice cream, and play board games. 

YEP that's how we roll! 

First full morning--beach bound! Kids are pumped...

I love that surfside has colorful houses lining the beach instead of massive hotels and resorts. It makes it feel more like a family beach.

we couldn't believe we saw TOLEDO on one of the signs at the Pier, how crazy!!

Beach babe for sure!

And this is our hermit crab, who still remains nameless as I write this...

Putt Putt is "fun." But it always seems like a better idea than it really is, haha. Especially with a two year old and a very competitive big sister!!

5th grade Grad

I can't even believe that Ellie's last day at Maplewood was today. It was surreal and not a fun feeling, for her OR for me. Gosh, I remember dropping her off to her first day of first grade, one scared little peanut trying to start a new chapter in life. Now we walked out today with one scared little peanut about to embark on an even bigger chapter. I'm so proud of Ellie.

Ellie, you have come a long way this year. You have demonstrated courage and compassion in ways that make me smile. Those are two of the words that Dad and I have been praying over you since the first day of your life. You have showed courage to stand up for yourself this year when girls have been unkind. And you have shown compassion when people need to be cared for, or stuck up for, or just when someone needed a friend. We love you baby girl and we are so so ready to walk these next years with you.
Mom and Dad

My Talent Show loves

So so very proud of Emma and Ellie this year for the talent show. They both shocked us and stole the show, in our humble opinion. :)
Emma did a gymnastics routine on stage, with Mackayla Brown. They used the song GOLD in the background and it was perfect. Emma was so confident and just looked so beautiful up there. She has taught herself everything about gymnastics, with no lessons. Totally impressed with this babe.

Ellie and Max Forquer did a guitar/piano duet to the song PAYPHONE. They both wore red shoes and we rolled out the red payphone that we have in our basement. Ellie sang, and played on her two day old  brand new guitar. They sounded AMAZING. Totally wonderful. We were proud parents, that's for sure.

Key West

When we get time away...it's rare and special and important. I tell the kids all the time: the best gift we can give you, is a good marriage. We NEED to get out of the routine grind and we need to have time together. It's pretty great.

And it's pretty fun doing that with good buddies, too. :)