Bracelets, Belly Laughs & Jellyfish Stings: A mini vacation to Remember

Today, I'm traveling home, sandy, sun-kissed and smiling from the inside out.

I just spent a few precious days on a mini vacation with three of my favorite girls! My Granddaughter, Courtney, and my Great Granddaughters, PennyP and Gwenny! Talk about some generational joy!

PennyP, Gwenny and I made bracelets and cookies (okay, maybe a bit of a mess) while Courtney and Mark went on a "date night." We all tanned by the pool, dipped our toes in the ocean, and yes, we probably ate a bit too much. And let me just say, belly laughs are even sweeter when they echo across the shoreline.

There was one moment of drama: Little PennyP got stung by a jellyfish (cue the gasp!), but she was brave and is doing just fine. That girl is strong and sassy, just like her great-granny! She said she was just trying to "help it." Humm....

Now, I'm headed home with sand still in my bag and gratitude in my heart. I cannot wait to see Jackson.... Oh, wait... I meant my husband. (But let's be honest though, Jackson will give me the bigger welcome party with loud purrs and head boops!)

Vacations like this remind me that joy is found in the moments, not the plans. God meets us in beachy chaos just as much as in quiet devotional time. And sometimes, a jellyfish sting or a burnt cookie is just a reminder that real life is perfectly imperfect, and still beautiful.

Here's to going back home refreshed, a little sunburned, a lot grateful and with more memories than I can count.

Until next time!

Melissa (and soon, a jealous Jackson!)