Happy happy Tuesday, friends! I have a little weekend recap for you today 🙂 .
June 3rd had been on our calendar for a very long time as the official day for our family of 9 to travel from McKinney to Nantucket where we will park it for a bit this summer. Back in May, my parents, Andrew and I drove/flew our belongings and car up to the island to get our house settled, but this was the first time the kiddos would be going to see the house since October when we saw it for the very first time. Needless to say, we were excited 🙂 .
Here’s a little recap with, of course, a few hiccups thrown in for good measure. Below you’ll also find a breakfast, lunch and dinner rec on Nantucket, a fish market is mentioned, a little boat talk and dog travels. It’s a very full post 😉 .
Here we are on the plane heading from DFW to Boston. The Red Sox fans sat on one side of the aisle while…
…the Yankees sat on the other. Ashby doesn’t look excited, does she?
There were so many logistics leading up to leaving, but I won’t bore you with the details and instead just share a few. One, we had to find a driver to take us to the airport as we didn’t need to leave a vehicle there all summer. And then the second logistical situation was…
…last week, just days before leaving, the airline told us actually we couldn’t take all three dogs on the plane but only two. Even though we had booked our tickets with all three, apparently there was an issue with overbooking/couldn’t move any to the cargo area as our aircraft wasn’t pressurized/blah blah (only a certain amount can fly on each flight), so that sent us off in a scramble. We started by trying to rebook all 9 of us (six humans, 3 dogs), but at this late notice, there weren’t any flights anytime soon that could accommodate that, so we started asking people we knew and were directed to this amazing little family owned business of transporting dogs for you. They were so sweet and their reviews were so amazing that we reached out and connected with them. In my dog mama heart, I could not just send one sweet dog alone, so I decided to send two so that they had each other. Right this minute, as I type this, it’s Monday morning and this sweet couple is about here with Poppy and Yankee who have been on an adventure. They have stopped at dog parks, been on walks, and based on the photos we’ve been sent, been spoiled rotten by the couple that has them and are almost here to Nantucket.
Once I get my pups back today, I’ll post their specific contact info as it wasn’t much more to have them driven than it was to have them fly (geez, the airline does not make that cheap!), and based on what they told me, my 11 year old more anxious dog has done amazing, so all of that to say, only Frenchie flew with us to Boston, and she was A PRO!
We arrived in Boston, grabbed snacks and Starbucks to eat in the car as we made our way to baggage claim.
The lighting here was so good that I told my family we will be having our Christmas card photos taken in this spot at Logan International Airport. 😉
Off we all go!
This time of year, you can’t fly from DFW all the way to ACK on jets, so we had a car service pick us up at the airport and dive us to Hyannis to catch our 5:45 speed ferry over to Hyannis. This is me in the Boston tunnel asking my 13 year old son to take a selfie with me. He said, I can give you a thumbs up in a photo. I took it. I take what I can get at this point.
We arrived in Hyannis (it took us 1 hour and 45 minutes), and it was raining. And VERY WINDY. As soon as we arrived, the porters outside of the speed ferry said that the 4:30 ferry had just been cancelled due to high wind. So, Andrew took off walking towards the Steamship Authority to see if he could get us tickets on the slow ferry (over 2 hours) while I stayed around at the speed ferry waiting to see if they were going to cancel ours or not. In a span of about 5 minutes, Andrew called to say he got us tickets, but that it’s first come, first get on and at that point, he was in the very front of the line…and right when I hung up, they cancelled the speed ferry, so this VERY VERY VERY NICE GUY (I won’t say his name) that is a golf pro on the island who also needed then to try and get on the slow ferry helped me, my four kids, one dog and six suitcases IN THE RAIN walk to Andrew. I was so grateful for him!
Madeley’s face sums up my feelings. We were freezing, soaked and happy to have tickets on the slow ferry (if not, we would have had to spend the night in Hyannis and go the next morning). The big kids though were giving me all the sweet vibes 🙂 . Traveling to a small island thirty miles off the mainland in the Atlantic is not easy, but for us, it’s TOTALLY worth the adventure including…
…settling in for a long ride over.
Now this picture cracks me up because bless K’s heart (she has her mama’s stomach) and bless Mades’ heart (she has a lot of patience). What is typically a 2ish hour ferry ride became much longer for us because due to the high winds and 12+ foot waves, the boat was “tacking” on the way (which means instead of going straight, it was going side to side). Not once, not twice, but three times, the crew came around this small enclosed space where every single seat was filled AND people were standing (and if you had a car on board, they said you had to be sitting in it and not in the passenger area) with barf bags. And people were puking. I was watching grown men puke. You guys, me and the Lord WERE HAVING A MOMENT. Thankfully, no one in my family got sick, but truly when asked “what’s the key to not getting sick” (because I’m a person with a very sensitive stomach) my answer is always NEVER HAVE AN EMPTY STOMACH. It might sound counterintuitive, but it’s the key for me. I ate a HUGE bag of Cheez-Its with my eyes closed and it kept me from getting sick.
And then just like that, we made it 🙂 .
We headed straight to our house, dropped off our luggage and then went to one of our favorite restaurants, The Seagrille for our first dinner.
The only picture I have from this night is a selfie these two sent me. Geez, I love my crazy teens.
The next morning, we slept in a bit and then headed to another favorite spot…
…Island Kitchen for breakfast. Do your kids argue over who can take a better photo? Mine sure do. On this morning, Ashby really wanted to take a pic…and she did great 🙂 !
We had a very yummy breakfast before heading home to watch our church service online. After that, we finished unpacking…
…grabbed sandwiches and chips from Something Natural…
…and then while the big kids went to town, we took the littles to the ACK Meat & Fish Market for some grocery shopping.
This is one of those places that I’ve always wanted to visit but never really had a reason.
It was adorable! I’ve been following them on Instagram for a while, and it totally lived up to my expectations. They had a coffee bar, fresh sushi, all sorts of salads, pastas, wraps and sandwiches made daily…
…plus an incredible selection of fresh seafood. We bought scallops and cod…
…and the possibilities were endless, so we will DEFINITELY be back!
After this stop, we made our way to the Stop and Shop (the ‘big’ grocery store) where we bought everything we would need for the week and then headed home. It was a very lovely first 24 hours on Nantucket 🙂 .
One last thing, I want to be super transparent here and say…we had all the emotions leading up to departure day. What sounded like an amazing idea for an entire year started sounding super scary and intimidating to certain teens in my house. No one pushed more for this new chapter in our lives than said kiddos, but as June 3rd approached and the reality set in, they were nervous. Andrew and I kept saying (and would still say now) that if it sucks, we’ll sell it and write it off as one wild year, but we had so much peace and saw God open so many doors to this specific time and this specific summer, that we feel very sure we’re to be here right now. By the time we went to sleep that first night, both kids told us they were so happy we came and have only continued to say it more. Right this minute as I’m typing this, they’re both off on their bikes. Parenting is hard and even good things can be complicated. I just wanted to let you know if you’re doing something good but hard at your house too, I get it. It’s hard enough to keep my own emotions in check much less all the emotions of my kiddos, so this is just me saying, we’re doing something really crazy cool as a family right now, but it hasn’t been seamless.
Alright, I’m off to work now! I’ll see you all back here tomorrow! xx
Elspeth Mizner says
What a busy first few days! Can’t wait to hear more as you get settled in! Sounds so fun!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Kari Anne Maddox says
So excited to keep reading more from Nantucket. I felt you were going to run into Elin at the Stop & Shop but alas, you did not. I love the breakfast picture with the entire catsup bottle on the plate of someone 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve only seen her one time here in person, and I observed her from afar as I was too intimidated to say hi. Ha!
Laura says
LOL I think it was officially ‘a side of ketchup’ and I would fan girl all over Elin….but probably from A FAR!!!!
Shannon Kirtley says
Just curious…with K going into high school and being on the cheer team, is she missing out on those high school commitments? I know that’s a big jump going into high school!
Mix and Match Mama says
She’s not! They only have one thing early in the summer (which she already did) and one thing at the end (that she will do!).
Jessica says
An adventure for sure! What amazing memories you are providing for your children! Thank you for sharing and being “real” with us. And hey, if you end up deciding not to live year round, rent! I know you have a large group of readers that would be happy to visit your spot!! 😉
Ramona says
I am so happy and excited for y’all to be on this incredible adventure! You’re going to have a great summer! X
Kelly Marie Sites says
Thank you for being real and honest about the hard parts. That’s important. And I CAN’T EVEN imagine being on the boat/ferry. I (since having kids) get bad bad motion sickness. We took our kids to Cancun and were out on a catamaran snorkeling, and I did it for my family, but I puked off the front of the boat the entire way there and back. It was horrible. Ugh. Bless us. Finally, I sort of can’t believe that airlines don’t let you take SMALL DOGS, who fit in your lap, regardless of how many there are. That is weird. I wonder what the rationale for that is? Sorry about that logistical pain. Way to go, though, to find plan B.
Mix and Match Mama says
As a passenger, I guess I’m happy all of my flights aren’t filled with a bunch of potentially loud/crying/whining dogs…but as a dog mama of three, geez, I wish I could have brought them all at once (although, that ferry would have probably been hard on Poppy).
Dana P says
I wonder if their policies have changed? It used to be pretty affordable and they could allow up to 4 pets per plane…
Mix and Match Mama says
For our flight, it was an additional $300 per dog. They told us 4 dogs per plane too, but they had over booked and gave other passengers the other two spots (only allowing us two spots).
Kathy says
Why would it be $300 per dog? I’ve traveled a lot with my dogs and it is only $125.
Mix and Match Mama says
I asked Andrew and it was $600 for all three (not for two like I thought), and obviously, we ended up only paying for one.
SS says
Wow… What a crazy few days. It is great when you all work as a team!! We always told our kiddos that…we are a team. We all need help in one way or another just like a team.
We went to an island and we’re able to take a puddle hopper plane..8 people on it. When we left the island we visited it was raining and a bit windy, but plane still flew. Said plane would take back seat out depending on luggage Well they left seat in the rain. yes it was wet to sit on for the like 15 min flight back to mainland. We saw the slow moving ferry and hubby said, so glad we aren’t on that. Let me tell ya though the plane ride was no joke.
Have fun and can’t wait to hear about your island adventures.
Jennifer C. says
As I read your last final paragraph, I couldn’t help but think about the gift this time will be for those teens. Back home, they’d be with friends so much more, but instead, they’re making memories together. If Covid taught me anything, it’s that my kids truly can be one another’s dearest friends…especially when that’s the only option. Cheers to memories on Nantucket!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you! I think looking back, COVID taught us some of the very same lessons. xx
Erika Slaughter says
Looks like it’s off to a GREAT start!
polly pover says
Thanks for sharing! Do you have thoughts/fears of the island losing its “vacation magic” for you and your family? That was one of our thoughts when we bought a house on our “magical” island! Vacation mode is different than “life” mode—which includes working, laundry, lawn work, home repairs, cleaning, etc! When we were there—including “living” there for bursts of time, we tried to do both so that the property wasn’t just labor, but a labor of love. Installed new storm doors, washed windows, but also went on a hike on a favorite trail and watched the sun set over the cove! Congrats on your bold move!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t think I have fears of it losing its vacation magic as much as I’m enjoying making it feel like “home” magic. I’m really trying to not Type-A the experience (something I struggle with all the time), but instead, I’m trying to just live in the moment.
Elizabeth Feldpausch says
Ooooof what a travel day!! Happy y’all made it safe and can’t wait to see more of the house and what the summer on the island holds for y’all!!
Jennifer Thiel says
Good Morning, Shay,
Congratulations on your Nantucket property! I have been reading your blog daily for almost 2 years now. Your recipes are some of my family’s favorites, I keep promising myself I’ll research more about your travel agency, and most importantly, I have been inspired by your love of God. I wanted to let you know that your very last line in today’s post, “Parenting is hard and even good things can be complicated. I just wanted to let you know if you’re doing something good but hard at your house too, I get it. It’s hard enough to keep my own emotions in check much less all the emotions of my kiddos, so this is just me saying, we’re doing something really crazy cool as a family right now, but it hasn’t been seamless.” really spoke to me this morning.
While my situation isn’t as ‘crazy,’ it IS a good thing that’s hard; my family sees that, and we know that we’re on the same team, but sometimes, as you know, emotions run HIGH.
I just wanted to let you know I appreciated your connectedness this morning.
God bless you and your lovely family,
Jennifer Thiel
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Jennifer, geez, thank you. You blessed me with your comment more than you know. I’m so grateful to have this community of women to support, encourage and love one another.
Courtney B says
I, too, sincerely appreciated your final paragraph. It hits our home and this mama poignantly right now.
I am also working on “not Type-Aing things” as well!
Sheaffer says
I loved this post! I’m so excited to follow along all summer!
Lyssy says
Eat all the Something Natural sandwiches and Juice Bar ice creams for me 🙂 So excited to follow along your summer in Nantucket!
Beth Knecht says
Such an adventure for you guys! So glad you made it and that the dogs had a great trip too! I love your authenticity and sharing the reality of having so many people make the big move. I hope it continues to be a fun and enjoyable summer!
Ashley Craw says
Wow- what a fun adventure for your family! Sweet memories, hard things that will eventually be funny stories (hopefully), and precious family time. I was just at the Boston airport on the 3rd, so maybe we passed each other – I did a girls trip to Bar Harbor, Maine -y’all should check it out sometime, about a 5 hr drive from the airport- it was so fun- reminded me of Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls. Can’t wait to follow your summer adventures! Love from Kentucky!
Sarah says
With a 14 and 13 year old, I wondered how your older ones were processing being away. I hope you all have the best summer!
Amy Heinl says
I am so happy you all made it up there safe and sound but what a journey to get there. I don’t know if I could have made that ferry ride…..I too have the same stomach that you and Kensington do. Sounds like this is setting up to be a magical summer for everyone. I can’t wait to see your journey unfold. The memories you will be making this summer will be priceless.
Dana P says
Thank you, Shay! Well, first that thing where you watched grown men lose it sounds like a nightmare. 😆 But the last part-we are heavily considering moving back to France and it’s scary! But you’re right-God is with us here and He will be there, too. We’re praying for very clear leading and direction right now and trusting that He is orchestrating all of these details if he is in fact sending us back. But it makes it extra complicated when the kids have their hesitations, too. Thanks for your transparency. 🩵 Hope you guys have a wonderful summer there!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Friend, I will be praying for you! That’s a huge decision, and I promise to pray for you guys and peace moving forward. xx
Dana P says
Thank you!!! It’s unreal how fast it’s all going. But also amazing to see how the Lord is working through it. There have been several of those moments where I get chills to see how He’s answering our prayers! Even today-we looked at an incredible house in a great location and the owners are practically begging us to come rent it. That almost NEVER happens with American renters because of our weird paperwork! To be continued, but it’s looking like you can come visit us on your next trip to Paris! 🩷
Heather S says
Cannot wait to follow along your summer on Nantucket! What a dream you have achieved!
Allison says
Loved this post and keeping it real! As a fellow motion sick sufferer myself – I’m curious…why not prophylactically take Dramamine?! I do every time I’m on a boat/plane/long car ride 😂
Mix and Match Mama says
It hasn’t helped me. I feel like I’ve tried everything (patches, those wrist band things, prescription meds, over the counter stuff) and for me, the only solution are eating crackers with an already “full-ish” stomach or throwing up 😉 .
Leslie S says
Fellow motion sickness person here – I too have tried most everything and sadly haven’t found anything that works. Adding crackers to the list to try on our summer adventures. Hope y’all have the most magical summer – thank you for sharing the good and the reality of family life. Excited to follow along and I love that you’re including the big kid perspective too!
PS what was the blue travel bag you used this time?
Mix and Match Mama says
Truly, I go out of my way not to have an empty stomach and then always bring crackers. Goldfish and Cheez-Its seem to work for me WAY better than a saltine.
Dustin K says
Try keeping your eyes on the horizon, since it will be the only thing NOT moving! When possible, I’d also recommend getting outside. Seasickness is the worst and once it starts, it is near impossible to stop. You might also want to try ginger, in one form or another, before sailing. I think the ginger thins at TJ’s are the best!
Lisa D says
Would love to hear about the kid’s first impressions when they finally saw the Nantucket house!
Man, did you ever think you’d be living on an island, even part-time? What an adventure!
My husband and I are doing something “good but hard” this summer too. We are not teenagers 😄 and it’s big and expensive and scary at times but the end result will be two homes in two states and more time with our grandchildren. So, as we spend a lot of money and time, we tell ourselves that we will keep going forward until we are stopped– by God, by unavoidable circumstances, by health, etc — BUT we won’t be stopped by our fears. Thanks so much for sharing your “journey”. Have a happy, lovely, terrific summer!
Mix and Match Mama says
Good for you, Lisa!! I love that you’re doing this to spend more time with your grandkids. How can that not be a blessing?! That’s amazing! We are calling this an adventure…and so far, it’s lived up to the name 🙂 .
MK says
Good morning! Love that you’re there! Have they recently changed the rules on pets being in a carrier during the flight? We used to fly with our furbaby elderly dog all the time and they always insisted she stay in the carrier during the flight. The few times I tried holding her for a few minutes they without fail would insist I don’t do it again. Would love if they have changed the rules now!
Mix and Match Mama says
Our flight crew asked that she be in her carrier for takeoff and landing, but loved on her big time while we were in flight!
Kim says
One question as I imagine trying to take my dog on a plane – where do they pee? 🤣🤣
Mix and Match Mama says
The airports both had designated spots before we boarded/left. Who knew?! hahaha! I’ve learned so much!
Melissa P. says
Love the story and can’t wait to see more and hear more about your adventures this summer! Curious if your teens have phones now? I know you’ve been more against technology in the past. Would love to hear how you’re navigating that. Have a great day!
Mix and Match Mama says
They do! Santa brought them phones at Christmas. Most of the time, it’s been great/easy/totally fine. Occasionally, I feel like it’s one more thing to babysit though.
Bethany says
Would love to read about post about teens + phones!
Hayley says
Yes I too would love to hear a little more about this in a post if you’re willing to share! I have young kids right now but I’m constantly thinking about technology and how to navigate it. I love learning from moms that are ahead of me with older kids. I’ve really loved how you and Erika have navigated this together (I know y’all have talked about this on the podcast before)
Em says
Would loooooove to read this post, too!! What let you know this was the right time? What conversations did you have beforehand? What boundaries have you set up, if any? What have been their thoughts and impressions since getting them? Grateful for anything you could share!
Mary Ellen Reilly says
So happy for you and your family–I love following along on your adventures! I am definitely inspired to visit Nantucket and am planning to go later this year. Could you possibly explain why you chose the ferry over a flight? Is it difficult to find a jet to ACK and are the prop planes nerve-wracking? Thanks so much!
Mix and Match Mama says
From DFW, it’s easy to take two jets into ACK during “the season” which opens here in two weeks. Outside of that, it becomes harder to get there on a jet from Dallas, so Boston becomes the better option. We could have taken a Cape Air flight from Boston (that’s the prop plane), and plan on doing that when needed (we’ve done it before), but when we initially were trying to get here, they could not accommodate six people, three dogs and our six suitcases (it’s all weight based) which is why we chose the speed ferry instead…which turned into the slow ferry 🙂 .
MelanieL says
What a day, Shay! Those 12 foot waves would’ve had me needing to be tranquilized…I am scared of “waves” riding in a pontoon boat on a private lake! Thank you for sharing and I’m looking forward to your daily island life! I’m spending the summer with my high school grad before we move her to college on Aug. 6…parenting is very hard but very rewarding!
Kristen says
Can’t wait to read all the Nantucket content! So curious to hear what the kids thought about the house. As for traveling w/ a dog.. I am terrified to do it.. where does the dog go to the bathroom, does she bark on plane, does she go to bathroom on ferry? I guess she goes before and after each take off/landing but thought of it all stresses me out. . HA
Mix and Match Mama says
We learned a lot in just one trip! At both airports, they have designated “potty” areas for dogs, so we took advantage of those. We brought a portable bowl for water and a little bit of food for a snack. Frenchie is almost 6, and the dog that sleeps the most (typically 9 to 9 each day), so she had no trouble holding it between.
Kacy M says
So glad y’all made it there! Have a great summer in Nantucket!
Holly says
Spending the summer with your family without distractions is such an incredible gift. We do it as well, and it takes us (mostly the teens) a little bit (sometimes a week) to acclimate…and then it is the absolute best. Transitions are tricky, getting out of your / their comfort zone takes intention and isn’t always easy…but so worth it. Texas will still be there when you get back. 😉Have a great summer! 💜
Gina says
Just curious how you are able to do this with the big kids’ activities…baseball, cheer, etc?! Our kids are the same ages and with my oldest entering HS he has SO much summer training that is “required” for the athletes. Wishing you all the best and wonderful moments this summer! It truly sounds amazing & like the making of a great novel! 🥰
Mix and Match Mama says
Your comment is too, too sweet! I feel a bit like I should be pinching myself 🙂 . Okay, everything that is required, she’s done or doing. They’ll both be back before school starts and their fall activities (football and cheer) start. All three four kiddos have activities they want to try up here that are unique/different than ones they can do at home, so we’re going to take advantage of those opportunities.
Lindsay D. says
I’m so happy for you all! What a fantastic adventure! One of my favorite posts all year…I can’t wait to read more about your daily lives there. Almost like we get to live on the Island over the summer with you.
sandi says
First, what a super cool business transporting animals for people. They get to travel and visit places they may have never been and have fun with pets on the way. Not to say it’s without challenges also, but how neat. I wonder what the largest or weirdest request for animal transport has been.
We are doing something fun/challenging/crazy this fall. I’ve mentioned we have three kids in college and one in high school. Well, we are pulling the high schooler from school and going on a year long RV adventure. During their different breaks, the college kids will fly to wherever we are. Covid taught us that my husbands business (certified financial planner) can be done remotely, the death of two of our four parents has taught us that life is shorter than what you think and so instead of putting this off for later we are doing it now. This is totally not something we would usually do and when we mention it people are really caught off guard.
My son and a HS/college buddy of his went on a bro road trip last summer… Long Island, NYC, Boston, Nantucket and a few other places. After his recount of the ferry and yours here Nantucket may be taken off of my to be visited list. The Lord and I would be conversing big time if I would have been on that boat. Whew. What an adventure for your family. Enjoy the family time and making new memories.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness, HOW CRAZY COOL, Sandi! Sandi, you cease to amaze me. I just love this SO MUCH!!
Kay says
Welcome to MA, Shay! I think what you’re doing is amazing, and brave! and will pay off big time for you and your adorable family whether you end up with 1-2 years or 20 in Nantucket.
Life in New England can definitely be more challenging than other parts of the country. (I grew up and live here now but have lived in Michigan, L.A., D.C., Paris!). The weather is always something we have to consider, the living spaces are more cramped, and the people can be…not the friendliest at first? BUT! I think you have the perfect attitude and will love it. You just kind of take it day by day and it ends up coming together in a way that is not what you planned, but ends up being perfectly imperfect.
I hope everyone settles in well and that you guys have the best time! Post any MA questions on Instagram! Can’t wait to hear more about your adventure!
Clare Butler says
I LOVE everything about this post – but the part where you talk about the ferry ride had me doing some deep breathing! Last time we took a ferry it was the same thing, and whew! It was a toughie!!! So glad yall made it safe and sound. We will miss you this summer, but hope you have the best time!
Shirley says
As long as your family wants to spend summers on Nantucket, DO IT!!! Kids grow into adults too fast! But I’m sure the thought of being away from friends & their usual activities (for months!) causes apprehension, especially in your teens. Who can blame them?! I feel like you & Andrew have the right attitude – it will either work out great, or it might not be the best fit for your family & you’ll adjust your plans. How do you know if you don’t try? Have fun!!!!!!
Alexis says
I’ve read your blog every day for probably ten years or more but next to never comment. 🤦🏻♀️ I’m doing the Bible recap with you each day though and I do post daily on the Insta group! I adore your family and reading about your life and adventures and feel like I know y’all at this point. I think I tell people, “Well the blogger I read every day recommended (fill in the blank!)…” on the reg. Ha!
Nantucket is my dream vaca and probably number one on my bucket list. I am a 3rd grade teacher and living vicariously through you this summer! Reading this though – one thought kept running through my mind and it was that after such a long day and all the travel headaches and long boat ride – how amazing was it to arrive on Nantucket and go to your own HOME?! Oh I love that for y’all SO much! I know owning a home has its own responsibilities but what a comforting feeling to know you get to go home to your own place each day this summer. It’s so relaxing in a different way than a hotel (if that makes sense).
Have the absolute best summer, Shay! Thanks for all you share here daily (even from those who don’t comment often).
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank YOU for reading my blog, supporting my family and encouraging and loving us now. I am so blessed by readers like YOU!
Laci L Murray says
All I can say is you are brave!! Have the best summer 🙂
Arika says
You are a good dog mama for not sending only one dog alone! I can’t wait to hear about their adventures! What a creative business idea!
Kathy says
Glad you all made it safely to your special island! Looking forward to hearing about all your adventures this summer, and the new house!
Lisa Cano says
Thank you for being so transparent. Wishing you all a fabulous summer filled with lots of sweet family time!
Vanessa says
We did the same thing when 2 of our 5 were teenagers. (They are all adults now.) It was hard, especially the friends and sports part, but God. It was 2 of our most precious summers with those kids. And now, of course, they look back on it with nothing but fond memories. Also, one of the perks was time spent with our extended family on that island, because everyone visits when you live at the beach!😉 Blessings to you and yours!
Whitney says
Love this post so much, keep em comin! So happy for your family, what an incredible adventure!
Karah Stracener says
Oh my goodness what an adventure, but I am so glad yall made it safe and sound. Thank you for sharing your summer fun with us. I love how you are so transparent and said even the good things can be hard. That is such a true statement and resonated with me. Have a wonderful first week on the island.
Carol says
Needed to read this! We are headed to Alaska for 2 weeks with our 3 kids and I’m so nervous!!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
YOU’RE GOING TO HAVE SO MUCH FUN!!!!!!! You really are!!
Jessica says
Thank you for that last sentiment. We’re headed to Munich this July with our 10, 8 and 5 year old and I’m nervous. I also find myself wondering if this is a mistake and we should do an easier vacation that we’re used to, but your message made me realize it might be hard but it will be worth it. Any good Munich recommendations for kids?
Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Munich is FABULOUS for families! If you have any bonus time, you guys take a day trip (it’s long but doable) to Salzburg too with the kids.
Terry says
Trying to keep my Nantucket Envy in check! Great post although I had to laugh when I read “me and the Lord HAVING A MOMENT” 🤣 Hope this summer is your best summer! I bet the opportunity to have a conversation with Elin comes your way!
Mix and Match Mama says
It was A MOMENT. Agh!
Amber says
Hi Shay,
Thank you for sharing the ups and downs and mixed emotions. I am praying your family makes such sweet memories in your second home!
Our family moved from a relatively large home in the suburbs to a tiny home on 100 acres in January. We went from no pets to 21 chickens, 2 livestock guardian pups, 2 goats, and one very loveable barn cat (not to mention my husband’s plans for a herd of sheep in the near future!). While this transition is growing and enriching our lives in many ways, it also has its challenges and many, many emotions! I want to rejoice in the Lord in all these things because it causes us to turn to Him, both in gratitude and in reliance!
Many blessings to you all!
Jodi says
I love this post because it spoke to the hard stuff too. The dogs traveling, the ferry cancellation, the seasickness, etc. It’s real instead of a highlight real. Thank you.
Donna C says
I think I have read every blog post you have written so I feel like I know you and your family so well! I have gotten so much inspiration from your decorating, fashion, fitness and cooking posts! I have such love for how you live your life for the Lord and your family. Coming from a mother of two grown sons and a grandmother of two littles let me just say that you and Andrew are so smart for taking this opportunity to do this with your kids. The experiences and memories you are making with them will last a lifetime. If I had one wish it would be to go back in time when my kids were little and travel as much as possible with them. I can’t wait to see more of your beautiful new home and hopefully one day travel to Nantucket myself!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh well, goodness, Donna, thank you, xx
Katie Stewart says
Needed to read this today! My family is doing something that is new, exciting and completely unknown. I have felt God calling us to do this and I have to keep believing that He didn’t plant that in my heart for me to reject it in the end. Lots of prayers and sleepless nights over here for the last few months. Sometimes it’s nice to have a reminder like the one you gave this morning. ❤️ As a Hilderbrand fan, I’m living vicariously through you this summer. 😉 Have the best time!
Mix and Match Mama says
Sending you so much love right now, Katie!!! xx
Laura says
Teared up at your last paragraph. I’ve had similar situations with one of my kiddos. Thank you so much for sharing that. Also, for them to have gone through that hellish travel day and then still be happy to be there, that’s the Lord!!! haha I’m so excited for you and your family – All the best!! And yay for your road tripping pups!
Elizabeth Thorson says
Shay, my eyes filled with tears reading your closing paragraph. I so admire and appreciate you as a wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. I have followed you since Kensington was small.
Knowing you through your Mix and Match Mama blogs, I am certain you and Andrew will navigate this summer in the best way for your family—every member! Cheers and here’s to a wonderful summer in your lovely new home!❤️
Kristen Richardson says
I read this with such a smile on my face! I loved sweet Poppy on the plane and chuckled out loud at how relatable you make it all 🙂 thank you for sharing your family and your adventures with us – It makes me realize that it is completely normal to be rooting 1000% for 6 people, and 3 dogs, I’ve never actually met to have the best summer ever!
Mix and Match Mama says
Well this just made me smile BIG!!!!
Sandy says
I would love to go to my dad’s house at the beach for the summer or 6 weeks even. Maybe we could have done it when my oldest was entering HS. But, with sports it always felt impossible.
Mix and Match Mama says
We’re all between sports. All four kiddos have sports in the fall and the spring, but we have a nice break during the summer months.
Michele says
Curious how you leave your home in McKinney for months. Do you have someone come in & check house, mow lawn, water your flower’s daily? How about your vegetable garden? I know how particular your husband is with keeping everything up around your beautiful home.
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes, yes and yes! We did as much as we could before we left, and then left it in amazing hands.
Katie says
I love reading about your travel adventures. As a very newly diagnosed celiac your g-free ideas have been extremely helpful. How do you handle K’s food on long travel days?
Mix and Match Mama says
Lots of pre-planning! We brought her food from home.
Monica says
I love the blue tote and always wanted to got to Nantucket! I’m so glad you bought a second home there so I can be there…kinda! Enjoy your summer!
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
Love love love this, Shay! Love that y’all are doing this big adventure with your kids–this is something I’m going to remember as I’m parenting :). Also, totally off topic but I’ve been listening to The Simple Sophisticate podcast and I’m loving it! I need to read one of her books now!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Mix and Match Mama says
You will LOVE her books! She is so inspiring!
Carrie Sternhagen says
Oh gosh, Shay…your last paragraph hit me right in the heart as I’ve just learned of a move that will be happening in my family. It’s something I can’t find joy in at this moment, but I need to be supportive of it. Man! That is difficult. Parenting is indeed hard. Best of luck to you and your family as you experience this new adventure!
Joyce says
I just had to laugh at the weather conditions on your ferry ride (not because of the mishaps you experienced) but because I was under the same weather system in my corner of MA and was planning to do a 5-mile walk which I promptly changed my mind on when I saw how windy and rainy it was (weather forecast said cloudy but no rain).
I just did a long bike ride on Nantucket (from downtown to Madaket) at 6 AM one weekend a few weeks ago and had a blast. Wishing you and your family a wonderful summer out there.
Jessica Belanger says
The ketchup on the breakfast plate made me laugh! I’m so excited to read more about your Nantucket summer and can NOT wait to see more pics of the house! Eeek! 😊
Mix and Match Mama says
And that would be Miss Madeley. Hahahahaha!
Marybeth says
God bless! What wonderful memories you’re making and ones your kids will never forget. Following your heart and calling will always lead you down the path that’s meant to be.
Kelly Gerhardt says
What a wonderful adventure! I will be living through y’all this summer. I’ve always wanted to visit Nantucket ♥️I hope this will be a blessing for you all.
Hope says
I was excited to read your post today and it did not disappoint. Your kids will never forget this adventure even if it ended up only happening for one summer. We took a two week road trip through California when my two were teens and ended the trip going to the Grand Canyon. They still say that was their favorite trip as a family.
Looking forward to more blog and Instagram posts!
Jacqueline says
Welcome to MA! I am laughing at that ferry ride. I would of DIED. I have had my share of ferry rides here in MA and luckily I am a “hearty New England type”. Any time I take a ferry I need air and I don’t care if it is winter, I sit outside with my eyes on the horizon. Give me all the dramamine, ginger, wrist bands, empty stomach and Jesus take the wheel. 😑😅
Have the best summer with your kids!! They will treasure it always.
Katie Wells says
Yay!!!! I was so excited to get an update of y’all’s arrival on the island! It looks absolutely dreamy! What an adventure this summer will be! Way to go to take a leap and enjoy life. God is good, and don’t you think he knew alllll this would happen when he put Nantucket in your heart all those years ago! Excited to read along on your journey.
I can’t wait to hear about this dog transport company. We are having the same issue figuring out how to get our medium sized dog from Dallas to our Maine home this summer! (first summer too in our New England home!) this sounds like the perfect solution!
Melissa says
love following this adventure! I think my teens would feel exactly the same. It’s a rollercoaster. I bet they could get some volunteer gigs this summer and meet a lot of other teens which might help things a lot for them! Nothing like summer beach friends. My kids’ love theirs!!! Just as you start to get tired of each other, you are back with your home friends.
Lisa Wargofchik says
Are you able to share the contact info for the dog transporters?
Thank you
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes! I’m going to share that on Saturday’s blog post!
Tera says
As a momma who just had her oldest graduate HS two weeks ago, I think about what a gift this summer will be for your family, & cheers to you all for giving up other fun traditions & activities to make it happen! You will absolutely cherish this time now & the memories you create. We have traveled all over the US in our RV with our 6 girls & that close time together without other distractions is just the best! Soak in every minute!
Lizzie says
What a fun summer your family will have! I am looking forward to hearing about real life on ACK for the season. You mentioned watching your home church online – I’m sure it was quite the respite after a hectic day of travel. Have y’all considered attending a local church for the summer? I think it would be a fun way to connect with other Christian families and build those lifelong relationships we all crave.
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s been a conversation and right now, we’re praying over what to do. The kiddos get excited to watch our church service online, so I would hate to derail them from that. We’re going to play it by ear, but have already looked into one church here on the island we’re interested in visiting…so who knows?
Kim N says
Thank you for sharing the ups and downs – I am living vicariously through you this summer – would love to do this but it’s not in the cards right now. Have so much fun – can’t wait to read/see more of your Nantucket Adventure!
SS says
Can I get the contact information for the people who drove your dogs to you? We have friends traveling with their autistic son and the airline won’t let his emotional support dog on anymore for some reason. I was wondering if this service might be a viable alternative for them.
Mix and Match Mama says
You’re right! I was supposed to have added that! I just did. I added it as Something Random. I hope this helps! xx