Momma and I were so thankful for the opportunity to make our way down to Myrtle Beach for the weekend to rest and spend quality time together, just the two of us, before Landon makes his arrival. We were a little worried that it would rain the whole time but we were blessed with great weather, and it didn’t even start to sprinkle until we were on the way home (thank You, Jesus!).

We headed right out onto the beach, first thing, when we got there on Friday. There’s something that’s just so rejuvenating about the soft crashing of the waves and warm sun on your skin.

We had stayed at the Hampton Inn when I was little and loved it. The hotel has so much character and special little touches that make it homey. They put out warm cookies at 4pm, have a wonderful complimentary breakfast, and the rooms are really nice.

We were amazed, especially, at the way the hotel had crosses placed in the lobby and almost every room and even has a church called “Church in the Hamptons” that meets there every Sunday and for small group studies throughout the week. I’m so thankful that we live in a country where a business has the freedom to be bold like that. Those freedoms seem to be diminishing so quickly under our country’s current leadership, so I’m extra proud of the fact that this hotel is taking a stand for Jesus.

We ate so well all weekend. We went to the Sea Captain’s House both Friday and Saturday night (because it’s just that good). On Friday night, we both got the appetizer portion of their shrimp and grits and not only was it delicious, but it was just enough paired with a small house salad and (way) more affordable than the entree version. So, if you go there and don’t want to spend a fortune, that’s a great option.

On Saturday night, Momma got the pecan crusted grouper and I got their crab cakes with lemon butter sauce (which were honestly the best I’ve ever had… the picture doesn’t do them justice).

If you are near Myrtle Beach and don’t go to the Sea Captain’s house, you’re really cheating yourself out of a wonderful experience. It is almost 100 years old (it was built in 1930) and has so much character. The inside is literally decorated like an old sea captain’s house complete with fireplaces and old windows and has a beautiful view of the beach, as it sits right on the water. If you’re a nerd (like me) and like knowing about stuff like this, you can read more about the history here.

On Sunday, we drove down to Garden City before starting home. I love the Hudson’s Flea Market in Surfside Beach, so we stopped there on the way and got a few special things for Landon from Treasure Cove, a business owned by the sweetest little man and woman who have been selling their children’s clothes there since I was a little girl.

We ended our beach trip with the best lunch at Sam’s Corner, a place that brings back so many happy memories from my childhood. Foot long hot dogs, foot long corn dogs, and pure happiness. YUM!

I wouldn’t trade this weekend with my Momma for anything in the world. She’s my best friend and I am so fortunate to have a Mom who loves the Lord like she does. It’s my life’s greatest treasure. I know our traditions and trips will be changing now, as I’m bringing my own baby into the world, but I know the sweetest days are yet to come, and for that promise, I’m so thankful.