Every August, my entire family heads down to the Outer Backs to vacation at “our” beach house (it belongs to friends of the family, but we’ve made so many memories there, it feels like a second home). We leave Saturday, and although I’m incredible sad to be leaving Pup behind, I’m also excited for all the things to come in the next week. Coffee and sunrise beach walks with my sister, Mama’s famous Frogmore Stew (sounds gross, tastes delicious), driving Daddy’s truck onto the beach at Oregon Inlet. We do the same things every year, and the older I get the more I appreciate that fact. An entire week of uninterrupted time with the people I love the most, with no emails to answer, no bills to pay, and the only worry I’ll have is what time I need to reapply Matt’s sunscreen so his ears don’t burn.

As I was packing my beach bag, I remembered how much I love reading on other blogs about the things they’re into and the products they’re using, so I was inspired to share the things I absolutely have to have to carry with me when we go on vacation. My absolute favorite bathing suits are by Victoria’s Secret. Yes, they’re a little more expensive, but I’m very particular about coverage and would prefer to invest in one nice suit per summer season than have several cheaper, less comfortable ones. I’m also obsessed with these sandals from Target. Are you at all surprised by the teal and the gold toggle? These products are my must haves. I have an Essie nail polish color for every occasion, and this trip Naughty Nautical will be on my toes as they rest in the sand. The leopard hair piece is for the makings of a sock bun, my new favorite style and I’m sure what will be a permanent fixture on my head this trip. Pacifica Color Quench is the perfect combination of moisturizing and subtle color (and the natural coconut nectar flavor makes me crave the tropics). I also love Hawaiian Tropics sunscreen because we used it on our honeymoon in the Virgin Islands, so anytime I smell it I’m transported back to the beaches at Cinnamon Bay.

This trip, I’m going to try to read two books, one for business and one for pleasure. I’ve been trying to read Jeannette Walls The Glass Castle for two years, so I’d really like to finish it. I’m also really excited about reading Worth Every Penny by Erin Verbeck and Sarah Petty. I won a signed copy in an auction and have heard such great reviews. Laying on the beach with a good book is one of my all time favorite things, so I really can’t wait to get into these two (while listening to Sarah Bareillas’ new CD-Blessed Unrest. Thanks for the recommendation, Mindy!).  This vacation will be a true break from business in order to help me rest and recharge for a fully booked wedding season coming in September and October. I’m really looking forward to having this time with Matt and my family, and to also have an opportunity to shoot some personal work while we’re in OBX. I’m excited to share the trip with y’all after we return next Sunday!