Friday, April 15, 2022

SSI Spring Break 2022

 We enjoyed another beautiful week on Saint Simons Island for our Spring Break.  This is one of our favorite getaways in Georgia, and it never disappoints!



This year we were lucky to have other family join us!! The Pivaceks came in from Tampa - so much fun! They spent most of the week and we all treasure the time and memories with them.  Our good friend Ben also came down for a few days, too.  It was a constant good time for all. 




Of course, Ms. Therlon joined us as well. It's not an SSI trip without her! She's been with us since our very first visit four years ago.



I love SSI because it's so easy. You can get around on a golf cart and enjoy beaches, parks, the pier, the playground, and FRO-YO all day long.





This year we tried out beach bikes.  Not nearly as easy as they look (although Mama is not talking from experience - she didn't try them and preferred to speed walk beside everyone!)





We took the crew to Jekyll Island to see Driftwood Beach, which is a beautiful place and such an interesting natural phenomenon.  







We also saw a bald eagle take flight!  This was the best I could do with an iPhone, but incredible to see.



Of course we had to visit the Sea Turtle Hospital.  I don't think we've ever missed a trip (or a chance for a souvenir) when we've visited Jekyll.





The group got a little competitive in a friendly round of Putt Putt.  Uncle Andy (and Aunt Kim!) are quite good, and I think it got JB (and Mama) more interested in golf. We shall see...



The boys took the little kids ghost crabbing one night, although everyone came back and said it was a little too windy and chilly.  Zero pictures because, well, boys.


On one of our beach days we saw the coolest thing: a pod of dolphins come nearly to the shore - jumping, rolling, swimming together, "falling in love" (it's that season).  I've never seen anything like it!  Amazing to watch!





We, of course, ate delicious food the entire trip.  Nothing much to show for it but empty plates! We also got into a restaurant I've wanted to try forever (Georgia Sea Grill), not once but twice. It's funny how well the kids know SSI, because the moment they hit the Island they tell us which of their favorites they want to hit up. Normally Crab Trap, Fuse (fro yo) and Sandcastle for the breakfast buffet.



Ah....memories. I already want to go back!  Another wonderful week together as a family.  We are so grateful for our time together, and the blessing of family, friends, and sunshine!





 


Friday, April 1, 2022

Big Birthday Bash - Part II

There was so much fun and excitement on this milestone birthday that I have to break it up into two posts.  My family and (surprise, friends!) made sure that I felt all the love on my actual birthday.  Early that morning, Mother and I dropped the kids off at school and headed to our first of several spa appointments around town, where we got facials, massages, our hair styled, and mani/pedis. HEAVENLY.

 

After our day, the kids practically pounced on me when we all got to the house with my presents. They love (especially Wesley) to watch - or help - open presents. I got lots of great things.






I knew James had made a dinner reservation for our family, and suspected nothing more than a nice dinner out. So imagine my surprise when I walked into the restaurant, James shooed me into the side banquet room, and I saw so many friends, colleagues and neighbors!!  AAAAAH.




We had a delicious low county boil, the most beautiful (and yummy) cake, and my friends did a lovely job on the decorations - a book theme of "have a novel birthday".  Love it. They know me so well.






I could not have planned nor imagined a more special day - and way - to turn 40.  A BIG shout out to this guy, who I now know spent lots of time and energy planning and making everything so perfect. And to think the only thing I did for him on his 40th was...well...birth our third child. :)  BUT, the bar is set high for his next milestone year!  Love you, babe!