We just got back from a week in the Outer Banks, and I wanted to share a few highlights while they’re still fresh—in my mind and in my camera roll. This wasn’t a work trip, but you know I can’t resist pulling the camera out when the light is that good and the kids are sandy and smiling (or at least mostly smiling).

We rented a house with 2 other families just steps from the beach, which meant salty hair, wet towels, and endless snacks on repeat. The kids were in heaven. Mornings were slow and easy and then off to the beach!

Sadly our days were cut a little short due to Hurricane Erin so we had 1 day in the house and then had to stick to the pool due to the high tide and beach restrictions. But we made the most of it!

Of course, I snapped a few photos here and there. Not posed, not polished. But real. Wind-blown hair, sandy toes, mid-laugh. These are the photos I treasure the most. The ones that feel like the trip, not just a highlight reel.

Already dreaming of next summer.