VA BEACH AT FIRST LANDING STATE PARK

We made it to the beach this past weekend, pending rain and storms notwithstanding. I knew it might sprinkle or that we might get caught in some showers but I do love a cloudy beach. So when I learned it was going to be cloudy I wanted to go more than ever. We drove down to Virginia Beach with my parents who were here last week, picked up Ken's mom and headed to First Landing State Park, which has a lovely beach access spot. We spent a couple of hours lounging on the beach, rolling around, playing in the sand and munching on a packed lunch. It was relaxing and we scuttled off the beach just in time to miss the rains.

Afterwards we went to a chocolate store, a new coffee spot I hadn't been to before called, Roast Lab, and I got to check out a few thrift stores (and found a couple of treasures!). We had an early dinner together before heading to Ken's mom's house to hang out a little bit before heading back to Richmond. I hope we get to make another beach trip before the summer ends. 

I've been in a weird sort of funk these past few days. It's a mix of things: my parents recently leaving and me missing my family, realizing that summer is coming to a close, some financial concerns, and trying to figure out this work-life balance, as always. Maybe also the upcoming transition of Sloane into kindergarten? I feel funky and frail. I want to spend my time moving slowly through the days, so that's where my mind is at but my body is a-going. 

Sloane is turning five this weekend! I'm letting it slowly sink in, and telling myself to enjoy all the moments of preparing for and throwing the celebrations. This morning, Sloane woke up early with me and accompanied me through my morning routines and helped me set up breakfast. It was nice, during the first quiet moments of the day, to be able to give her all the attention and I gave a hundred kisses and squeezes. 

The last time Logan was at the beach was when she was one and I guess she didn't remember what it felt like to walk on so much sand, because this was what her face looked like when we first took her shoes off. She wobbled around slowly getting used to it, with this look of glee mixed with confusion. 

MY BIRTHDAY! I AM 34.

 

I turned 34 last week and I'm happy about it. I like myself more, I'm more understanding about the parts that I don't like. I realize more than ever how much I don't know, and I am extremely appreciative everything that I have been able to experience until now. I'm more specific about the things that I want and need, and my relationships are deeper. It's good to be 34.

  I really like my birthday. It's a combination of being someone who likes celebrating milestones and it being in July, and lately it's become a day that I resolve to spend with my family doing things that I've been wanting to do. For example, for my birthday last year, I opened up a special bottle of wine, made a tomato pie, had sushi for dinner, and ate at one of my favorite restaurant's, Perly's, for breakfast. 

This year, I wanted to visit places in Richmond that I have been meaning to visit but haven't had the time. My parents were here last week, so I took the day off and we spent the day running around together in Richmond; it was perfect and exactly how I wanted to spend my birthday. My parents left this morning and I already miss them.

First spot was Pottersfield bridge, a new pedestrian walking bridge over the James River. It was a beautiful and clear day, and we got to see so many great spots on the river by walking across and back.

Do you see the elephant?

Next stop was North End Juice Company. They opened up in the fan area and serve juice, smoothie bowls, empanadas and a few other savory items.

I got a really tasty smoothie bowl. If you know how I feel about good smoothie bowls you know this 

 made my day. We also tried one of their green juices and an empanada. They were all good!

We headed to Saison Market next and picked up some beverages for later, including Blanchard's newly released cold brew.

Next on the list was the trio of small shops which is Na Nin, Addison Vintage and Yesterday's Heroes. They all had such fun and great pieces; I will be back to explore and discover some more.

For lunch, we went to Perly's! One of my favorites. I usually end up coming here for my birthday because I love it so much. This time I got the duck and potato pierogies and the schlubby fries...it was all so delicious.

Photo by Lola Lu, with the help of Sloane.

Sloane wanted a hot dog and lots of pickles, and she went at that hot dog like a pro.

We got home late in the afternoon for naps and quiet time and slow-paced cooking for dinner. My mom made us all a Korean meal and Mignon made me a Smore's pie over which we saying happy birthday.

It was a perfect birthday.