Recently we took off for a little getaway to the Gulf Islands (..Mayne to be specific) to stay at our family cabin for the week to rest and relax. We normally try to get over there for May long weekend because the sun is always shining but it’s still relatively quiet on the island – we go for the peace, the quiet, the good food, wine and fresh air. Over the almost 10 years my husband and I have been together we try to go as much as we can, no matter what time of year it is.
This last trip was one of the very best! Since the dates we planned to go fell on Mother’s Day we had my Mom and my little brother & sister come out for the weekend to celebrate. We went crabbing and made the most heavenly crab risotto of LIFE, got out on the boat to explore, had fires every night (and yes that also means s’mores), went hiking, and enjoyed rosé on the dock.
This trip was extra special because while we were there I also had the opportunity to partner with Native for the trip, to test out a couple pairs of shoes from their Spring Collection. I’m always open to testing out new things, especially as we have a fairly active lifestyle and are always spending time outside.
The Jefferson shoes were perfect for boating and getting to the beach (bc who cares if they get wet?), they’re easy to slip on and in typical Native fashion, extremely lightweight. The APEX hikers were super comfortable. I wore them in all weekend (we are always out walking trails), and tested them on three hikes while we were there. They were comparable to the North Face hikers we both have, except they were much lighter in weight (& water resistant), more of a summer hiker. The North Face pair are completely waterproof, and because we go year-round despite what the weather is doing (true West Coasters) its crucial that they are warm and completely waterproof.
I’m still testing out a couple other pairs now that I’m back in the city which I’ll be sharing to my channels over the next couple of weeks. They’re just an easy, lightweight, comfortable shoe and I’ve really loved getting to know the brand over the past year and a half. They were perfect for this trip and I know we will continue to get lots of use out of them as we keep going back. Read on below for five things I did while we were on the Gulf Islands:
- Unplug. Our main focus when we getaway to the island is to focus on nothing at all! While I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t ever on my phone there, we do take a time out off most devices and really try to use this time to unplug and connect with the outdoors. Our pace of life at home is pretty hectic most of the time, so when were here it’s to relax, rest, indulge and have fun.
- Catch Dinner. We catch most of our dinners ourselves straight from the ocean when were here. The Gulf Islands are abundant with Oysters, Clams, Mussels and Crab most of the year and for this we take full advantage. We’ve made a tradition out of making certain seafood feasts while we’re holiday-ing (including breaded oysters, fresh crab and seafood risottos!), obviously enjoyed over wine.
- Become a total sloth. When we’re not catching our meals or hiking trails you can most likely find us on a blanket on the beach with a charcuterie plate and a bottle of vino. It was even warm enough to lounge out on the patio! The hammock is the perfect spot to curl up with a good book for the afternoon.
- Went shopping. This is probably the last place on earth you’d think to go shopping, but since it was my Mom’s first visit we decided to stop in at a few of the local shops on the island (you know, support local business) and I was so glad because we discovered a new artisan grocery market on the island that we had somehow NEVER gone in and it was absolutely amazing (called Farm Gate). When we visited I didn’t have my phone on me but we will be going back in July so I will deinfetly share some photos with you then. Every type of oil or vinegars, fresh local produce, artisan breads…
- Scheming my next business. Okay, half kidding but I’ve always wondered how when I never spend much time or energy on my hair on the island, it always keeps so nicely. Well, while we were out on the boat one day I realized what it was.. The sea salt! My hair is always thick and full and beachy and I’m thinking it may be the result from being out on the salt water soooo I’ve been thinking that I may need to make a salt spray! Bottle that sh*t up and use it at home for that beach look everyday. Has anyone ever tried this?!
We are heading back in July, which will be the perfect mid-summer break! Until then!
This post was in partnership with Native.
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