Happy happy Friday, friends!
I hope you had a wonderful week.
This weekend, we have our “norm” of soccer and rowing. The weather has been super rainy and grey here this week, and a cold front is pushing through, so it will not be a sunny spring weekend. We’re going to lean into our cozy vibes instead 🙂 .
First and foremost today, I wanted to give a BIG birthday shout out to…
…one of my favorite people EVER! Tomorrow is SHEAFFER’S birthday!
Sheaffer, I just love you so much. I love how you always know what I should order from any given food establishment. I love how you get teary over the sweetest things. I love how when you get hot, you immediately start taking off your bracelets. I love that you always answer the phone with enthusiasm. I love your genuine joy for everyone around you who has success. I love that I know if I ask you to pray for something, you are PRAYING. There are a million reasons why I love you. Happy birthday, friend!
Speaking of friends, as always, I’m linking up with my friends Andrea and Erika and sharing this week’s FAVORITE THINGS!
This time last year, I was here…
…in Disney World with Ashby and Madeley.
You know how I feel about Disney World. I realize I was just there in February, but I’m having withdrawals.
This place truly is the most magical place on Earth 🙂 .
Don’t forget, if you love all things Walt Disney World and/or are thinking about going, my travel agency has decided to create a Disney only newsletter so that we can keep you up to date on all things WDW including discounts, park info, new rides, new food…we will simply let you know what’s going on at Disney in real time. You can sign up HERE!
Needless to say, I have been reminiscing a lot this week about our trip last year. It was super super sweet. Which leads me to my favorite Fave of the week…
…being on Nantucket with my boy! Smith asked if he could go with me to Nantucket this week, and I jumped on the opportunity. I would have had a fine time by myself, but I had a super super special time with my kiddo.
On Sunday morning, we left DFW at 7:00 AM and touched down on ACK right around 1:30. We landed, jumped in a cab to the house, checked out the newly renovated bathrooms (they look fantastic!), grabbed the car keys and headed straight to the beach. It was cold and windy, but we walked up and down the Sconset beach together. It was SO good to be back!
After the beach, we headed off…
…to run a few errands including a stop at Bartlett’s Farm.
A little later that night, we went into town…
…to enjoy dinner at the only restaurant opened “in town”, Brotherhood of Thieves. We shared sushi and sat by one of the fireplaces…it was the perfect place to be on a dark and cold Nantucket night. And since it was one of the very very few establishments open, it was fun to be surrounded by so many islanders out to dinner too.
The next morning…
…I enjoyed my quiet time before the two of us headed off to the gym and then…
…we walked through the state park. So gorgeous, right?!
I know I’ve said this before, but I’ll say it again, my mom speaks often of “quiet blessings”. These are just little moments you have in “normal” life when you know you’re experiencing a blessing. You are consciously aware of the specialness of the situation. I had many quiet blessings on this little trip with my fifteen year old son…
…and walking through the state park was one of them.
We were super hungry after the gym and our walk, so we stopped at our FAVORITE breakfast spot…
…we always sit on this one particular bench in town and eat our favorite breakfast sandwiches from The Hub and drink our coffee. This is a tradition we’ve been doing for years…just the two of us, and I never ever do it without realizing how special it is. I’m going to walk by that bench many many times in the future when he’s big and grown and living his own life and my heart will swell with all the memories and the bitter sweetness of it all. I just know it will.
After I enjoyed my sandwich and he enjoyed his three (this big guy eats!), we walked down to the marina.
It looks a little different at the end of March than it does at the end of July.
We headed out to another one of our favorite spots when we were done…
…Cisco beach. This is where Smith typically takes surf lessons and/or surfs on his own. It’s very peaceful out there this time of year.
After this, we took our trash to the dump and did other “household” things that needed to be done.
For lunch, very very little was open, so we decided to enjoy a very cozy pub lunch at…
…Kitty’s. This is a quintessential British pub located in the heart of Nantucket.
I had their salad with salmon and Smith had both their burger and their shepherd’s pie.
After lunch, we headed back home, and I worked while he did some homework. We stayed inside all cozy and warm and chilled out until dinner at our family’s very favorite Nantucket restaurant which is open *most* of the year (it’s mid-island and not ‘in town’ should you be visiting)…
…The Sea Grille. Their baked cod is like my favorite thing EVER!
Two amazing days with my boy. You guys, these kiddos are getting too big too fast. I am trying my hardest to soak up every single minute, but dang, I would do this “raising kids thing” forever.
Just as a reminder, if you want to see my comprehensive list of places to eat on Nantucket, I have an entire post for you! Check out my Nantucket RESTAURANTS post. You can see allllllll of my Nantucket content HERE too!
You guys, I shared this in my Stories on Saturday, but I highly, highly, HIGHLY recommend this particular podcast episode…
…for everyone, but if you struggle with sleep issues, I REALLY REALLY RECOMMEND IT!
I don’t struggle with insomnia, and I was still able to get so much for this one episode. The expert brings so many practical tips and ideas on sleeping better to the conversation that I think it really can improve anyone’s sleep quality. If you struggle with staying asleep all night or falling asleep easily, I truly think this could be a game changer for you.
One little #ootd from this week…
…this STRIPED BUTTON DOWN was a super cute top to add to my jeans and sandals uniform.
And if you’re a beachy person like me, you might like my PENDANT too.
Only $25 🙂 . My SANDALS just make me happy!
This week, I shared my 30 SHOWS TO BINGE FOR JOY with you (and then you ladies added A TON of other great suggestions in the comment section). I failed to mention this one here…
…but watching any of the Below Deck shows makes me happy. I like this series because yes, there is some “reality TV goodness” in each episode but unlike most reality TV shows, this cast is really really working. They aren’t just there to be on TV. If they don’t do their various jobs on the ship, lives could be in danger. Every episode makes me want to visit some amazing destination and eat delicious food too. If you haven’t seen it and you love reality TV, I think this is the best of the best in terms of being “real” while also producing entertaining television. (And I LOVE looking behind the scenes at these super yachts!)
Once again, I rounded up the TOP 10 THINGS YOU LOVED FROM MARCH!
Here you go…
#10: This super TWO-PIECE LOUNGE SET. I wore this yet again just Tuesday!
#9: MY NAVY TANK comes in many other colors…
…and can be dressed up or down.
#8: Another TWO-PIECE LOUNGE SET? Yes, please!
#7: Die With Zero, a must read!
#6: MY BEACH HAT has been all over the world with me…and always looks great when I pull it out of my suitcase.
#5: THIS DRESS has been worn on so many vacations and even Easter Sunday too!
#4: MY SUPER SOFT TARGET PAJAMAS are on repeat over here!
#3: I see why my RUNNING SHORTS are a fave with you guys too. They’re lined, have zippered pockets, come in so many colors and are comfy! My top is HERE.
#2: You just have to read the reviews to see that I’m not the only one smitten with THESE SANDALS! For only $25, they are crazy comfortable!
#1: And your favorite thing, MY TENNIS SKIRT!
I love it too!
And finally…
…I am sharing my EASY EASTER SIDES! And yes, I count deviled eggs as an Easter side 😉 .
You can see them all HERE! From green beans to cheesy potatoes, I have sides to go with your Easter mains!
Whether you have big plans this Friday or…
…you’re staying in like Charlie, I hope you have a wonderful weekend 😉 .
I’ll see you all on Monday! xx
Elspeth Mizner says
What a busy week! So glad you got some one on one time and time in Nantucket! Have a great weekend!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
Hahaha Charlie is a vibe!!! I love love LOVE your #1! What a wonderful two days for you to get to spend quality, uninterrupted time with Smith. And I love y’alls breakfast tradition! Also, where are your jeans from in #3? They look so good on you!!! They look like they’ve got some stretch–do they? I love for my jeans to have stretch because I feel like I can live in them better as a mom to small kids–I need them to be able to move with me! Have a great weekend!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Mix and Match Mama says
Want to know what’s funny about those jeans? Those jeans “live” on Nantucket. I try never to bring anything back to Texas that lives there, but I wore them on Monday and was like “I should wear these more”, so I brought them back…and I’m hoping to remember to return them next time or I’m going to be in trouble when it’s time to get dressed 😉 . They’re Frame but clearly several years old since they’ve been living there.
Sheaffer says
Well the birthday shout out was such a sweet surprise! Had I not had to cancel our lunch this afternoon, I would have requested to go to Patina Green. And I would have pretty much insisted you get the roasted poblano and pepperjack grilled cheese on sourdough with a side of tomato soup. 😉 You would have been so happy with my choice. 🙂 Love you!
Mix and Match Mama says
I would have complied in a heartbeat! Next week, friend. Next week. Happy birthday! xx
Kristen says
Great post! I have to say I love that you always include what you ate in your posts!! Love seeing that, lol!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s always one of my highlights from any destination 😉 .
Nicole says
This whole post made me so happy! Love your special time with Smith! I was first drawn to you way back to being a young mom of two little kids and you helped me find a balance of fun and health, of making memories with my kids and having fun in the kitchen, you’ve helped me find balance in the world of wellness and making memories. You truly helped me be a better mom (of 3 now 🩷). Thankful for you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh well goodness, Nicole. This blesses me more than you know. I am so grateful you are such a positive part of this community. I truly am. xx
Paula Hobbs says
Happy Birthday, Sheaffer!! Nantucket with Smith brought tears of joy to my eyes! My baby boy turned 15 yesterday and my goodness he melts my mama heart every day!! Like you say, babies just don’t keep! Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s going by so quickly, right? I need time to slow down. xx
SS says
Shay…. What a nice trip and yes soak it all in!!! Our center son had the day off work, so we went out to our favorite car museum!!
We have been socked in with clouds as well!!! We had our fire going too. I just saw snowflakes on Monday and Tuesday!!!
Happy 1st weekend of April!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Enjoy every minute with your boy, friend! xx
Kelly says
Omgeez, you, Smith, and your bench has me 🥹 My son graduates from college in a month. The days may seem long, but the years are definitely short. Thank God for such precious memories.
Krista F. says
Talking about walking by that bench in the future had me in tears!! The older my kids get the more I understand the meaning of “bittersweet.”
Kate says
I feel this in my soul! My first “baby” is about to graduate from high school! Shay- I agree I’d raise them forever too! I now understand the word bittersweet like never before ❤️
Christy says
I am the “teary” person too! I was all teary reading about the special “bench” and how it will always bring joy to your heart. I love that (as I’m teary typing…bwhahaha). My family really enjoyed the shepherd pie bowls last night. I ordered the blue pjs and love them! Thanks for sharing! I hope you and yours have a great weekend!
Mix and Match Mama says
This season is just so emotional for me. It’s all going by way too quickly. Thank YOU for making one of my recipes for your family. xx
Grace says
What a lovely post to share today! From Sheaffer’s birthday to your trip to Nantucket with Smith. Not going to lie but I teared up a bit reading about your weekend with Smith. Have a wonderful day and thanks for sharing so much love.
Alyssa says
YESSS I love the Below Deck Sailing Yacht shoutout! That is one of my ultimate favorite Bravo shows 🙂
Becky says
Happy Friday! I love the navy and khaki skirt you’re wearing with the navy tank top! Any chance you have it linked in another post somewhere? Thank you in advance.
Mix and Match Mama says
I do! It’s a steal too! https://mixandmatchmama.com/2025/03/what-im-packing-for-spring-break-2025-edition/
Karah Stracener says
What a special trip with your boy. I am leaning more and more into one on one time with my girls. I cherish those moments as they are getting older. That picture of Charlie kills me….how cute is he. Enjoy your weekend friend. It’s been cloudy and yucky weather in East Texas as well this week.
Anne says
Hi! During the “off season” on Nantucket when most restaurants and businesses are closed, what do islanders do without those businesses? Is it hard to live on Nantucket during those months?
Mix and Match Mama says
The population greatly declines when all of tourists and seasonal residents/workers leave. I am pretty positive they enjoy the quiet quite a bit. My friends who live there year around do “normal” things. They eat dinner at home, their kids go to school, they work at their jobs on island, order things off the internet, etc. It just becomes a very small town for most of the year.
Kay says
I love reading about your time with Smith! It is so precious. My three are 15-17-19! now, and here’s what I wish I had known. Junior-Senior year of high school are on a completely different time zone: crazy fast hyper speed! Freshman-sophomore years seem sort of normal, and they’re around some, etc. Then, Jr-Sr year is like five minutes, and they drive!, and they’re out, and they’re filling out college apps…! My point is, you are so wise to take in all these moments while you can! You’ll never regret it and it will sustain you when you’re missing them! I will say about college too, they COME BACK! My oldest is just about to wrap up his freshman year at NYU! and I feel like I did get to see him more than I thought. And hearing about how much he loves school, his friends, how he’s following his heart, it makes his absence much much easier! So, hang in there. There are so many truly beautiful things about having older kids!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement, Kay! xx
Erika Slaughter says
HAPPY FRIDAY!! So glad you got that time away with Smith!
Life As Kim says
That’s a shame that the weather is not forecast to be great but it sounds like you have some fab plans for the weekend.
Happy birthday to Sheaffer!
It sounds like you had a great time with your boy!
sandi says
So wonderful to have time with just one kiddo!
Our oldest graduates from college next month and we are all super excited to head off on a Mediterranean cruise planned by Brooke. Earlier this week I got the long email from Whitney letting us know it is two months away. Yay!
This weekend is prom for our youngest daughter and five of her friends are getting ready at our house. Our other two college daughters are driving home to join the fun and each one of them is bringing a friend. We have not seen one of them since Christmas as her school is a little farther away and she traveled with friends over spring break. We will have a very full house this weekend. I’m sure my husband will be sporting his OUTDAUGHTERED shirt with this gaggle of girls filling our house!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Sandi, we are so blessed by YOU!! You have so many wonderfully sweet things ahead. We are very grateful to be one part of the goodness of this season for your family. xx
Morgan says
Hey! Under your Top Ten Things you loved for March, #3 has your shorts linked but not your black top. Can you provide the link by chance? I looked on your LTK tab and couldn’t find it. I love the length. I keep ordering tops and they are so long. Thank you and I hope you have a great weekend!
Mix and Match Mama says
Of course! Just added it!
Morgan says
Thank you!
Jenny N says
Your explanation of “quiet blessings” is perfect!! Enjoy every moment with those sweet kiddos……it all goes by way too quickly!!
Courtney says
Between the spring break posts and your detailing the trip to Nantucket, we’ve sure gotten to see a lot of SMITH, who’s usually avoiding your camera 😉 So glad you got that special 1-on-1 time with him. Have a great weekend!
Mix and Match Mama says
He’s been a little generous with those dimples lately 😉 .
Alison says
My daughter and I are at the Orlando airport right getting ready to fly home after spending our spring break here. Including a couple days at Disney! Was it as hot last year when you were here with your girls? It’s been 90° all week. We were melting alongside Olaf. 😂
Mix and Match Mama says
It was warm enough that we enjoyed an entire day by the pool at our resort, but I don’t remember thinking it was HOT. I really think it was more like 80-ish. I hope you guys had fun!!
Karleigh Johnson says
Aw, Shay! I love that you got some one-on-one time with Smith. I want you to know that you so totally inspire me as a mama (a working mama too). I started reading your blog almost a decade ago, before I was even married. I’ve always loved how you say you want to make every moment special for your family — that is what my mom did. She died when I was 11 years old and honestly we didn’t have much but all I remember are traditions and special occasions (like French toast on the first day of school, ice cream for the class on my birthday, sleeping in her room Friday nights). That’s the kind of mom I want to be for my boys who will surely grow up too fast. Even now, I love my time with them and I love creating special memories for them. My 3.5 year old remembers the smallest things and brings them up at random times and it literally makes my heart swell. Thank you for all of the inspiration! Have a good weekend 🩶
Mix and Match Mama says
Well Karleigh, I am beyond honored that you would share this with all of us. I am just so blessed by your words and your own dedication to motherhood after your sweet mom. xx
Pilar Lexington says
So nice!!
Maghin says
The Peter Attia podcast has changed my life in just days! Thank you for sharing!
Mix and Match Mama says
WONDERFUL!!!!! This makes me so happy!!
Leigh says
I would love a post on Smiths eating habits, workout routine etc. Having an Elementary School son I would love to get an idea on how you go about his healthy lifestyle.
Mix and Match Mama says
I can do that! I will say that 99% of it is just Smith being Smith. He’s my reader/researcher/academic kiddo so he’s motivated by what he reads/podcasts he listens to so much.
Kacy M says
Smith is your twin!
Rachel Kazmier says
Two travel outfit suggestions….
1.) Pact Airplane Set. The most comfy set ever! Especially for longer international flights where you sleep!
2.) Title Nine speed racer dress. Super light. I have done 11 hours at Disney in it, packed it on our 10 day TMB hike for dinners when in a village, and have worn it countless times. I have 3 and plan to take them for my month in Europe this summer. I only pack in a carryon! Looks cute with sandals, keens, and tennis shoes!
Mix and Match Mama says
THANK YOU!!!!
Jeanette says
Those memories you are making with Smith are so precious. Oh my goodness, that last picture of Charlie 🥰.