Mama, You Got This

This past weekend, we did something we’ve been dreaming about for a while—we packed up the truck, grabbed the girls, and headed out for a beach camping trip! There’s just something about the sound of waves crashing, the salty breeze in your hair, and that slightly toasted marshmallow smell mixed with sunscreen that makes you forget, at least for a little while, how much effort it took to get there.

And wow, was there effort.

Let’s just say packing for this trip was a hot mess express. I started strong with a checklist… that I stopped keeping track of and missed lots of things on. Lesson learned: next time, I need to start packing earlier and double-check everything. Preferably without a toddler trying to “help” by packing random toys in the bag.

But once we finally made it there, all the chaos melted away… The weather was chef’s kiss perfection. Sunny skies, cool ocean air, and the kind of breeze that made everything feel extra fresh and free and maybe a little chilly at times. It was one of those rare weekends where you feel like time slows down just enough for you to actually soak it all in—the giggles, the grit, and the good kind of chaos that comes with camping as a family.

LaLa was in her absolute element. She rode her push bike like a girl on a mission—zooming up and down the campground with total confidence, hair flying, feet sandy, and the biggest grin on her face. She learned her lesson about going to fast and always make sure she had her “helmet on”. She collected seashells (and a few dead crabs), chased waves, and proudly declared every single rock she found “a treasure.” And, thankfully, she chose not to share her collection with MJ, who tends to treat rocks like snacks.

MJ, meanwhile, decided this was going to be a full-on mama-snuggle weekend. She clung to me like a little barnacle most of the time, happy to take in the sights from the comfort of my arms. But she had her own big moment: she discovered s’mores. Oh yes. It was love at first bite. Sticky hands, chocolate-smeared cheeks, and the most excited little “mmmm” noises. She was fully committed to the s’mores lifestyle and was always begging anyone who would to give her more. Watching her light up over something so simple made my whole heart melt. I think we’ve got a future campfire queen on our hands.

The water? Absolutely freezing. But LaLa was undeterred. She ran through it, splashing and squealing like she was part mermaid.

Beach camping with kids isn’t exactly a relaxing getaway—but it’s the kind of messy, magical chaos that fills your heart in ways a fancy vacation never could. Watching our girls explore, learn, laugh, and just be—no screens, no schedules, just sunshine and sandy feet—was exactly the reset we needed.

So here’s to more weekends like this one: wild beach days, sticky s’more kisses, baby snuggles, and memories made under the stars (plus a better packing plan next time).