A Star-Spangled Weekend in Charlotte

Is Friday too late for a holiday weekend recap? Don’t answer that, because I’m going to do it anyway.

This weekend, we took advantage of the long weekend and headed to Charlotte to visit Chris’ younger brother Doug, our sister-in-law Erica, and our niece Amelia. They moved down to Charlotte last year, so it was really nice to see their new home and spend time with all of them.

We headed down on Saturday morning and got to Charlotte around dinnertime after stopping for a few hours in Blacksburg. After the long ride, Abbie was beyond ready to get out of the car. She actually did really well with the ride down, and we were so proud. There were of course far too many electronics and M&Ms, but she remembered to tell us when she had to potty, which was my biggest worry.

We got there just in time on Saturday to see Amelia before she went to bed. Rather than be interested in her cousin, Abbie immediately started to become best friends with Jake the dog. She literally asked where he was all weekend, and I think she wore him out!

Sunday Doug and Erica had planned a party in the afternoon, so we hung out all morning and helped them get ready wherever we could. Abbie showed a bit more interest in Amelia on Sunday, helping her play on her playmat and giving her kisses… while still sometimes petting her like she was a cat. Only a three year old, right? Just before the party started, I got the best baby cuddles ever with Amelia taking a nap on me – I mean, I have to practice before our newest one arrives, right?

The party was so fun and laid-back. Abbie had a blast playing with the big kids and Jake, the food was delicious, and it was just a fun afternoon. Chris and I tried to help where we could so Doug and Erica could relax a little bit and enjoy the day. It was also Erica’s birthday, and Abbie said told her Happy Birthday at least a dozen times.

We took the fourth as another family day – we took Abbie out to Discovery Place Kids in Huntersville before heading back for one last night together before we packed to head home Tuesday morning. No fireworks for us other than the ones on TV, and honestly, that’s how I like it most years.

We left Tuesday morning for home. This was likely our last family trip as a family of three, and I’m so glad it was a good one. Hope you all had a great holiday weekend and enjoy this next one!