Life with Mary and Jay

We decided to take a road trip to Manahawkin, New Jersey while we were in Pittsburgh. Although it was still many hours both ways, this was the closest we would be to the shore for the next year or so and I wanted to introduce Jay to some of my family that he hasn’t previously met.

On the way there, we had to get snacks! Jay loves Reese’s. I’m more of the fruity gummy candy or Slim Jim snacker! haha

While shopping, we found some interesting snack choices available. Lots of fun Lay’s flavors and also the hair-raising One Chip Challenge chip display. Good luck to anyone participating in the One Chip Challenge – but we will pass on that! hahah

The drive was really beautiful and once we got there my aunt welcomed us with the biggest hug ever! It was so sweet. Jay got to meet my aunt, uncle, and my younger cousin.

They welcomed us into their beautiful home and we spent time relaxing outside on their gorgeous deck next to the water (and my uncle’s new boat – we can’t wait to go out fishing with him next time we are in town) and around the kitchen table (we are all Italian after all – ha!).

Their home was so relaxing, and welcoming and filled with tons of great food!

Seriously, I’m not sure how my aunt makes every home she has ever lived in so seemingly effortlessly beautiful and welcoming- but she does – it’s something I aspire to in my own life.

Before we even left I had to ask her to share the recipes for the food she made for us – DELICIOUS! She sent me the sweetest text with the handwritten recipe from Grandma Marie. Although Grandma Marie isn’t with us anymore, her legacy and recipes will live on forever. She is so loved and missed.

Also while there, we got delicious ice cream and walked around a beautiful local lake and took a few photos. It was serene, fun and we all really enjoyed ourselves.

Although we were only in New Jersey for two nights, we made sure to make every minute count. We spent time catching up, talking about hard past topics, going through old photos and playing the super fun (and sometimes awkward) game, UNPACK THAT.

It was an amazing time and I can’t thank them all enough for being so welcoming and loving to us both. The hugs, love, and fun-loving time truly warmed our hearts. I know we both can’t wait to see them again!