Gran Canaria: A Week en la Playa

If you know me, then you know I love the beach. I was getting a little sad, not having had a beach vacation this summer {or at all this year}, so when Michelle mentioned she had a week off from her grad program, we immediately went to work to find a beach that would still be warm in October. When we found cheap, direct flights to Gran Canaria, our decision was made...a week in the sun and at the beach. The Canary Islands are just off the coast of Morocco/Western Sahara, and we didn't really know what to expect other than that it's a well known beach destination for Europeans. Definitely one of the most relaxing vacations we've had in Europe.

While the Boys are Away, the Girls Will Play--In Normandy!

Nick has been in Africa (well, on a boat off the coast of Africa) for over a week and a half now, so when my friend Katie suggested a girls' trip since her hubby was out of town too, I eagerly jumped on board.  We decided on the Deauville/Trouville area of Normandy for its beaches and easy drive from Paris.

Paris has been rainy and cold recently, and the weather in Normandy wasn't much different, but we did get some sun and had a blast hanging out.  Also, how perfect are these flags we found?!?