Our sweet Gabby was barely walking when we took our 1st Trip back to Virginia Beach. We couldn't really afford it, but going back had been on our minds without relent for months. I was in my early 30's the 1st time I got to see the ocean, and I was eager for my little one to start creating her own special seaside memories early. I couldn't shake the need to take her to the place that had such a profound impact on her life before it even began.

Brad's son was on vacation with his mother, and my son was on vacation with his dad. So we loaded up the car and took our girls to introduce them to the place that changed our lives, Virginia Beach. Though the trip would have a notably different tone, having a toddler and a teenager in tow, we were sure it would be a great memory.

Once again on a tight budget, there would be little money for activities. After allocating the needed funds for our hotel, food, gas, and parking, we were left with enough extra to take a trip to the zoo, rent a family bike to cruise the boardwalk, and tour a local lighthouse. We were only staying a few days, so our main focus was going to be on hanging at the beach anyway.

Despite the normal issues of taking a small child on such a long trip, we had a blast! Though our gorgeous sunset was a no show due to clouds, I can't describe the feelings that I experienced, watching my husband walk hand in hand with our sweet girl on the beach she was named after. My oldest was fully aware of the impact our previous trip had on our relationship and I loved getting to share this special place, she'd already heard so much about, with her. It was also a humbling experience to witness her 1st vacation with her new dad. An experience most kids get to have when they are young.

Though short, our little beach stay would leave us yearning to return. With every new memory, piece by piece, Virginia Beach was stealing our hearts. Though we dreamed of one day living there, watching my baby playing in the sand, I never really thought it would someday be my reality.

I said goodbye to the ocean that day, not knowing for sure if I'd ever see it again, as tomorrow is never promised, and though far from luxurious, trips to the beach were unfortunately rare due to our financial situation. As if he had read my mind, he leaned over and whispered to me, "I promise I will find a way for us to live here one day." Though incredibly sweet, I knew that wasn't likely. Still, as I looked in his eyes, I knew nothing was impossible.