Perfect for Couples AND Kids: an Omni Staycation!

Hey, Y'all! So I'm sure you have heard about the Omni opening a SWEET and brand new location downtown Louisville (please tell me you have!) My husband and I had the time of our lives celebrating my 30th birthday there this past March, and we knew that we would have to come back--this time with the kids! [In case you missed that post, you can check it out here]. 

Summer days are literally the best, but let's face it, they can also feel long. Being a teacher and having all summer off with my kids is an absolute blessing, and it's yet not without challenges. It is really amazing getting so much extra time with my son and daughter; playing with them, teaching them and loving the heck out of them. But by mid summer, both my husband (who is a teacher too) found it kind of exhausting trying to find fun and engaging things to do every single day. (There are only so many trips to the zoo and the dollar spot at Target a mom can make.) When the opportunity to stay at the Omni again arose, I JUMPED at the chance! 

The Omni Louisville is only about 20 minutes or so from our house, so for us this was the perfect staycation. Especially since our annual summer trip to the Gulf fell through, our kids were ecstatic to learn that they were now going to stay at the hotel "with the pool on the roof." (ps: it kind of amazed me at how resilient our kids were when they did learn about the beach trip falling through. It's neat that they stayed happy and thankful through the other fun things we planned for our now Staycation, such as this very special trip to the Omni!)

When we arrived with the kids, they were in complete awe of the hotel. This place was unlike any hotel they’ve ever stayed in, or even seen. The art, the architecture, every inch seemed to captivate their attention and excite them. We literally did some sight seeing in the lobby and ground floor before ever making it to the room. (In case you didn't know, escalators can equate to endless fun for Littles).

Speaking of the room…OH MY WORD. Y'ALL!! It was incredible. The views, the finishes, the space, all of it! We walked in the door not expecting the spacious and seemingly endless floor plan. Or the breathtaking bathroom that I believe was larger than our kids bedrooms...! Scroll slowly through these pictures, and the second you can see for yourself by booking a stay at the Omni, I promise you will not be dissapointed! 

Even though I’m fairly certain my husband could have just stayed in the room enjoying how nice it was, the kids and I were more excited for the pool and some lunch! Omni Louisville has an immaculate, beautiful, rooftop pool. There is a restaurant and bar up there with incredible food that is flavorful and light--exactly what you'd want while being in the hot sun. It was really sweet when the waiter offered to make our kids some slushies; we really just felt so taken care of and everyone was super accomodating of our very excited children.  

There was also something about being at the rooftop pool that made us feel like we had gone away on a trip far from home. It’s luxurious, yet inviting. It feels exclusive and also accommodating. The pool is long, but not very deep. My kids were able to swim and play almost completely independently. (They even made friends with kids their ages minutes after jumping in, so that was really fun to watch!) There were tons of pool chairs for sunbathing, comfy shaded seating near the bar for relaxing, even cabanas you can use to escape the sun but still be poolside. We spent the bulk of our time right here, but my husband did take advantage of the gym just down the hall from the pool, and then he joined us on the roof. It was conveniently located near where the kids and I wanted to be. (I apparently don't believe in working out anymore now that I've gotten a horse............oops).

For dinner we ate at Neighborhood Services, because we just had to get another round of Hot Brown Tater Tots. If you only eat one thing at the Omni, you want these. They’re a twist on a Kentucky staple, and they are SO dang good. 

After dinner we went up to the room to unwind. Every TV has a built in Chromecast so finding something for my kids to watch was really easy. Plus, they were so wiped from being in the sun all day, and the beds are so comfortable, they fell asleep quickly without any protest. 

For breakfast you have got to check out Fall City Market. There are so many options to choose from to get exactly what you want for breakfast. The kids and I got fresh pastries from Batch Bakery. My husband wanted a hot and savory breakfast, which he was also able to get there. And of course you can't forget the Heine Brothers Coffee!

We took one last swim in the pool before we left. The morning hours had such a small crowd at the pool that we were practically alone. It was a perfect place to sip coffee, and ease into another beautiful day. It was just a shame our time at the Omni was coming to a close, but I promise, we WILL be back!

August Happenings: It's Been a While

Well it happened again. I went an entire season (almost) without keeping up here and regularly posting/writing. Remember when I launched this blog back in January of 2016? My goal was to have fun with it, write often, document my kids lives, track what's happening, just take NOTE...and it's just NOT happening. That being said, I am praying about getting a better grip again, and for now, I'll write when I can. 

I had babies yesterday, and they're going into kindergarten and first grade next WEEK. If you've ever had any vacation time, you know how hard it is to return back to the workplace after some time off. I've come to the conclusion that it's hard for everyone, not just me. Time off is sweet. It's refreshing and peaceful. Yet it's also crazy, filled with adventure and breaking up *tons* of sibling arguments--around the clock. (I realize now that probably doesn't sound appealing to you whatsoever, but honest to God? I wouldn't trade it.)

May 31st until August 13th, we will have been off. A long [not long enough] time that I am so super grateful for.

So here is where I want to tell you what I love about these crazy beautiful kids I'm blessed to call mine :) 

Pierson: 
Six years old. Earlier this summer, he was absolutely obsessed with all things basketball. He played on his first team ever his kindergarten year, was the youngest on the team, and he finished the season like a champ. He's now in love with baseball, and daily wants to play catch with his dad. Ended kindergarten reading on an upper first grade level, kicked butt on all of his report cards, and was the kid on the highest behavior level (4) ALL school year long. His love language is gift giving, he cuddles in my arms every Sunday at church while we sing hymns, and asks me to tickle his back. His body dangles well past my knees, and it's getting to the point that I am wondering how much longer I'll be able to hold or carry him. Never, right? Promise me NEVER!! He is a good kid, a loyal kid, and I love every ounce of who he is. 

Reese, Reesie-Cup, Reese Elisabeth, Liz, Sis:
4 years old, 5 in just one month, Heaven help me. She got her ears pierced TODAY. We went for a manicure, and had a sweet and special day together. She's turned into my biggest barn helper and sincerely loves our horse. I think her love language is words of affirmation, just like me. She is genuinely interested in hearing about people's day; how a meeting went, or the horses were, or how my ride was at the barn. She loves to learn and color and sing. She seems to be very artistically inclined and has a natural talent for memorizing lyrics. She wants to start gymnastics...so we'll see if that can happen soon. She did her first ballet classes during her preschool year, and while she ended up crying all throughout the very last class, she seemed to enjoy all the others. She is sweet, super cuddly, and doesn't know a stranger. Oh how I adore this girl!! 

This summer has been really, really great. I photographed a wedding in Wisconsin, which was one of the best experiences of my photographing career. We went camping with family at Cumberland Falls here in Kentucky. And we also had a week of staycation, where we visited my brother and his wife in Nashville; we did an overnight stay at the Omni Downtown [more coming on that, ASAP!!!!], and we took the kids to Kentucky Kingdom, the Science Center, and a 'fancy restaraunt.' Also, Paddy and I are doing well, thank you, Jesus! I still have a lot of moments where I get fearful riding him, but he is so good, and so sweet. We have learned and grown a lot in the short four months we've been together! 

What's next? Asa and I start back in the classroom August 13th. I'll have kindergarten and first graders in the morning, fourth and fifth in the afternoon (same as last year.) I'll have the same instructional assistant, which will be great, and I really love the women working on my unit with me. Asa will still be teaching self-contained EBD (emotional behavioral disabilities), and he'll get to see OUR kids daily, which has me uber jealous. What is going on in your life? What has your summer looked like? We'll never forget two summers ago when our kids were literally sick the ENTIRE summer. They had Hand Foot Mouth, Strep, the never ending stomach flu...So we've thanked God OFTEN for good health this season.

 If you've read this, thank you!! I know I am not the best at posting here and I really do want to be better. Thanks for sticking with me and I hope your summer was wonderful! 

How to Create and Enjoy Your Outdoor Space

I don't know about you, but I basically live for all things outdoor. I thoroughly embrace each season (okay, that's a lie...I think I hate winter!!) so when they shift and each one makes room for more opportunities spent outside, I take every chance! When we moved into our new house last summer, the first thing we noticed was how empty the back deck felt. We already had a gazebo with globe lighting, but I dreamt of outdoor furnituture; preferably some that I could comftorably lounge and get sleepy on. We knew that realistically we couldn't afford to buy anything (buying a brand new house is *kinda* pricey all on its' own.....) so we waited until the time was right. 

See this sectional? You better believe this is where I do the majority of my ME time. Sometimes I let my husband join me... kidding, kidding, kidding! We spend a LOT of time talking and cuddling right there. I remember the first night he set this all up. It was still cool and crisp outside (not 103 degrees as it CURRENTLY is) and we completely dozed off under that Opalhouse blanket. Thank you, Target, for generating a brand new line that basically resembles Anthro, but is way more affordable, am I right, Girls?! 

All of the pillows can be found yet this season at Target. The long rectangular one is not technically an 'outdoor pillow,' nor is the throw, but I decided to risk it anyway. They didn't have many options that I loved that are considered 'outdoors,' so when it rains I just do my best to grab them and put them on our living room couch. 

The sectional is an amazing Amazon find! It is seriously SO comfortable and very easily washable. It IS considered an outdoor couch, so yay. It came with the table, and we went with the Nature Brown option. Honestly the table came broken, with a piece of wood split open on the side. We decided to fix it ourselves instead of shipping it back, and Amazon was great to refund us $100 for the trouble. 

The two side chairs were also purchased on Amazon, but are technically Walker Edison Furniture pieces. They came in a set of two, and while the wood doesn't match 100%, it's very, very close and looks great with the sectional. We love that we can host 6+ people easily on this patio, because one of our biggest passions is gathering and fellowshiping with our friends and family. It's not just us who love lounging in this space, clearly our pets spend a lot of time here as well. Our grey cat, Manny, starts to howl around 6 in the morning to be let out and when I actually get UP for the day, I always smile when I see him curled up in a ball either on the couch or in the circular tray on the table.

My biggest advice for designing your outdoor space, is to create it around your family's needs. Sure, cute things are great, but they're not always functional. We made sure that we had a couch large enough that we could host, but made sure to choose one that could be cleaned and would [hopefully] last a long time. The outdoor rug is also easily sprayed off, and can still be found at Target.  

Pops of color are always great in a neutral space, which is why I went with the Opalhouse line of products that I did. I am obsessed with those salmon, and light pinks, and they look great on that cream colored sectional! And lastly, I am a firm believer that fresh flowers make *every* space better and more appealing. So at least whenever we host or plan to spend a few hours on the deck, I like to buy some and fill a vase. 

I would love to know what your dream deck looks like! Or what projects you're currently working on! I am so grateful to have this space and look forward to many cozy nights spent outside because of it. 

Hardworking Man of Faith: My Dad

Thirty years old, yet I still feel like the small little girl that once sat upon your lap. It's funny which memories stick and which slip away, but I'll never forget the way you make me feel, and that's pretty plain and simple: loved. 

I don't honestly remember ever struggling as a kid, in the sense of getting by. As a now working mom and adult, I know that that wasn't the case, but you and Mom always did such a good job of keeping money and finances on the down low--it wasn't something that was publicly talked about, even if there were years you two were unsure. I was the kid who grew up in a gorgeous house, with an indoor pool, a super amazing playhouse, and my friends still talk about all those birthday parties. Those blessings were never a small task...they were made possible because of you. One of the hardest working men I know, if something was broke, you knew how to fix it. That's still the case, after the most recent trip to your house and your grandson busting the backboard of an over-the-door basketball hoop. "Ask Pa Pa if he can fix it," I told him. The next day, that once snapped in half hoop was hanging back over the door, ready for him to hopefully NOT dunk on again :) 

I still think you have all the answers...especially on all car and house related questions. I remember driving away from the car lot with my very first car, that you helped me choose. That silver Dodge Stratus was my most prized possession for many years to come, and when I crashed her into another car freshman year of college, I remember sobbing my eyes out that 'my car was ruined.' You and mom, six hours away, were of course just worried about your daughter--but I loved that car. You two looked online and I was so stubborn about wanting another Stratus. You found a navy blue one and you DROVE it from Michigan to Kentucky, to hand me the new keys, and you flew back home. I remember you left a Sandi Patty tape in the cassette player. That day was such a picture of sacrifice to me (from Mom too, who was home caring for Nathan), and I won't ever forget it.

Nor will I forget the gas money and the "Love you, Myrtle" sticky notes, one of which is tucked inside my Bible. I should probably laminate that soon. The hot horse show days, not once winning a red or blue ribbon, but you still watching and cheering nonetheless. My first dog, Holly Lou, who you drove an hour away to get on Christmas Eve, and helped take care of the rest of her life after I moved away to college. You joke often about not wanting any more animals to care for, and though I'm not sure how my childhood cat is still alive, I know that Minnie adores you as much as I do. I also know that deep down, you really do love them---all of them, including Sean's turtle, Lily, who also refuses to pass on to animal heaven. I think animals are in my blood so strongly from both you and mom. 

Speaking of you and mom. I know the waters have not always been smooth sailing, and you two have both had to make sacrifices and ask for grace from each other, and us kids. But to me, you both are a picture of faith, redemption, and restoration. Your love for one another has surpassed many trials, and I am so thankful that you choose each other. Even and especially when it is hard. She loves you so much, and I know without a doubt that you arms are her safe haven. Your hands are her strength. And you caring, is all she really needs.

Asa once a long time ago, commented on your hands. I'll be honest and say I was caught off guard because growing up with you as my Dad, I think I took them for granted. "Your dads hands show a lifetime of service to your family," he said. "The scars and swollen knuckles, it's all such evidence of providing for all of you." I suppose that makes it all come full circle--the fact that you were able to fix and make anything; all such proof that you have always provided. I never went without, because for you, that was never an option. 

I will forever hold tightly to the memories we have. Dad and daughter breakfast dates, Christmas Eve shopping for mom, random open house viewings, Sunday restaraunt dining, no bake cookies, and our shared love of peanut butter + chocolate anything. I pray that someday, you can slow down and not have to work SO hard...and I also pray that you know how loved you are. 

You, Dad, are a hardworking man of faith. You can make us laugh out loud, and in your arms, there is strength, safety, and never ending love. Happy Father's Day, Dad. 

I love you.