School's Out for Summer

Gals, school's out for Summer!!! 

Last Carpool Ride

Yesterday was Vivian's last day of preschool in the 2's class for the year.

The first response to this past year seems to be along the lines of, it was a doozy. And while it was indeed, it was also full of fun, learning and growing.  I'm so grateful and blessed for her school and teachers. She attends at a local church less than a mile from our home and beyond the colors, numbers, animals etc ... they are teaching her about God and His character and His wants for us.

Gracious she's grown!

We celebrate the end of the school year with a popsicle party on the playground. Parents were invited and gifted a memory book of art work and pictures from throughout the year. I cherish these books!

so many girls!

Seeing Vivian sharing joy with her friends just arms my heart.

It really is an example of loving one another.

This morning we are packing up and headed to the beach!!!

Our last family vacation was exactly 2 years ago & Vivian's 1st time seeing the ocean.

To say I am BURSTING WITH EXCITEMENT is an understatement!!!

First time her toes were in the sand '19

I plan to soak up every moment of the water splashing her little piggies, building sand castles, hunting for treasures (seashells) and all the laughter of being together!

I'm also lookin forward to morning runs watching the sunrise and evening strolls with Ryan watching the sunsets.  There's nothing more beautiful than seeing God's art in the sky!

With that, I'll be taking time away from this space to be present with my family.

I will be back next week for my regularly scheduled pretty outfits!

In the mean time I will be sharing some memories we are making on my Instagram.

I'm not sure how I will navigate it yet, but in the past I've just used my phone for pictures and shared them in the evenings once Vivian is asleep.  I found that to be very refreshing and fun to sit back and view all that was captured at the end of day and not be disturbed and distracted while we are together.

Happy Summer!

Dress Beautifully Welcoming Summer

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Mamma Monday: Time Out

Happy Monday Mammas! This past weekend was a time out for me.  My gal pals and I have been planning a weekend away at the beach for several weeks now. One of the gals just recently purchased a townhome on the coast and we were all eager to warm it with lots of cheers and fun.  I must say I'm proud of all 7 of us for aligning our calendars and coming together. We all went to college together so it was sentimental if you will, to be back to our glory days.

Not everyone there was a Mamma, only 3 of us, and it was one gal's first time away from her 10 month old. Regardless, we all NEED time outs.  A time to refresh, rest and give ourselves change from our weekly grind whatever that may be.

I realize that not everyone can just escape for an entire weekend nor can they herd other gals with them. But I do sincerely believe that time outs are necessary!

This is also where your tribe comes in.  Someone has to keep the littles alive in your absence.  It took Mr. and both of my sisters to care for Vivian Louise for 3 days (because her Daddy works weekends).  But they were all excited to do it.
I left a note of instructions and a stocked fridge of food.

Tip: They've got this! checking in discourages those taking care of your children and fully letting go is the point of your time out.

If you're one of those gals that never asks for help. Shame on you!!! And I'm confident you're one of the first to help others.  And don't keep score either, just because you helped/watched someone else's littles, doesn't mean she has to now watch yours to keep it even.  God gave us each other to lean on, so lean!

It was amazing having her back in my arms after 3 days

Where you go or what you do doesn't matter, just being away for just a bit is all you need to return happier than you left. And it's a guarantee you'll be missed and those reunited hugs and kisses are priceless!

Spent the morning splashing with my little mer-babe

My Swimsuit

It feels good to leave but it feels even better to come back!

Dress Beautifully While Taking a Time Out

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Mamma Monday: Salty Toes & Sandy Kisses

Happiest of Mondays that ever was!!! That's what today is.  I'm on vacation but after debating whether or not to write I decided to quickly hop on while Vivian is taking a nap.

There are no words to depict the joy and happiness of seeing sweet Vivian's toes in the sand and her arms splashing in the ocean for the very first time!  Mr and I haven't been on a week long vacation in several years and the escape from the hustle and bustle is such a blessing. We also realized that vacation is way more fun with Vivian! Who knew building sand castles, collecting seashells and splashing in the water could be such a celebration.

I'm truly aware of the luxury that it is to be vacationing in a house ocean front for a whole week. I am eternally grateful for the memories we are able to make.  No picture could ever truly capture them.

But here are some of me and my mini on the seashore ...

Moments after we arrived and the first time her tiny toes were in the sand.

She already found her first seashell.

She wasn't quite sure of the water.

My Tunic - super comfortable, light and just so pretty

Pure Joy

My first one piece and I have to admit, my Mamma gal pals were right, they are more practical for playing in the sand.

Soaking up all her love!

My first tankini and again, very practical for #momlife

Staying hydrated

This two piece is also Mamma friendly with lots of coverage and support.

Her very first taste of ice cream! 

She wouldn't lick the cone but loved it from a spoon.

Isn't it just Marvelous to be a Mamma?!!!!!

Dress Beautifully with Sandy Toes

XOXO Sarah Louise