Hawaii, baby!

This month I had the once-in-a-lifetime chance to take a trip to Hawaii with some friends (and more importantly, WITHOUT KIDDOS)! It was incredible, fabulous, relaxing...the best, really. I didn't have to worry about anyone but myself -- ate what I wanted, did what I wanted, and didn't have to schlep bags of kid gear around. Even the long flight and hours in the airport were not tiring but much appreciated time reading and chatting with friends. Without a doubt, it was the most relaxing vacation I've ever had. (Probably because I can appreciate the time alone now more than ever.) A million thanks to Sam for being Mr. Mom for four days, so I could enjoy myself and be just Molly for a weekend. A million more thanks to my friend Kathy who was generous enough to include me in the celebration of her birthday.

More family, hurray!

Sam's sister moved to the Durham area this summer, giving us our first taste of having family within easy driving distance. My cousin, Macon and her family moved to Columbia, NC this fall -- only a 2 hour drive! It's so nice to finally have family nearby. We took a trip down to see them this month and were FINALLY able to meet their little girl, Perry - my 2nd cousin (?). She feels more like a niece, and she's adorable. I look forward to many spontaneous visits with them.

Now I crave having lots of family nearby....any takers?

Better late than never...

August 2009. Good times. My grandmother visited Charlotte. We took a weekend getaway to Atlanta. Best of all, we vacayed at our favorite spot on the Florida panhandle.

Leather Man -- that's what we nicknamed him. No exaggeration, we've spot him walking the beach every year since I was in elementary school! And yes, he is Caucasian.

This is what happens when Daddy tries to be like Leather Man. Eeeouch!

Caught red-handed reading (enjoying!) Martha Stewart Living.

Uncle Scott crafting his annual sand sculpture.

My sis, Paige.