Sharing a life lately update about the last few weeks of July and August in 2025 on Caitlin Houston Blog. August has been a whirlwind of sand, sweat, suitcases, and sweet moments I never want to forget. We spent over three weeks hopping from dance stages to beach towns, and while it was anything but restful, it filled my heart in unexpected ways.
Life Lately in August 2025
Phew. It’s been awhile since I sat down to write about life lately. If you’re not a social media person, here is what we have been up to.
We have spent the last four weeks traveling – to Massachusetts for dance nationals, Cape Cod for our annual trip and Hilton Head Island for our first time ever. Since my last Life Lately post we have only been home for 11 out of 35 days. One would think all of the adventure has worn the family out, but instead I am feeling a sense of peace and calm all around. We had a lot of nonstop fun – and now it’s time to slowly enjoy the rest of the summer.
For the first time … ever… I left my MacBook at home while we were away. I used to bring it everywhere thinking I’d wake early to blog about my trip. But with so much to do, like watch the sunrise, make beach sandwiches, stroll under the Spanish moss, or prep for a day full of dance, how could I open my computer? Part of me wishes I took a few minutes to write down my thoughts and feelings (I left my journals home too), but I made of point of taking lots of videos and photos to look back on instead.
A Recap of Our 2025 Summer Travels
Leaving my MacBook behind felt strange—like telling a part of me to rest. I’m realizing that memory isn’t just about journaling; it’s also about being fully present.
Dance Nationals
Where I cried tears of joy as Annabelle finally let go and simply danced.
Our dance studio attends a National Competition every other year and it’s always a great time. This season my daughters competed at the Work It Dance Challenge in Marlborough, MA. They collectively performed in seven dances in the hip hop, lyrical, and tap genres. There is nothing I love more than watching my daughters perform on stage – especially when they show as much growth as they did this season.
The last day of competition weekend is a Battle of the most entertaining performances. Our studio had quite a few in the show, Ailey in a tap dance and Annabelle in hip hop and tap. All of the students (and dance moms) were exhausted by the Battle so I didn’t expect much of anything from the girls. Just dance, maybe get a trophy, and go home. However, Annabelle shocked me.
It’s important to note that while Ailey exudes confidence on stage, Annabelle is more reserved and somewhat timid. She always seems afraid to lose herself in a dance and is very focused on each count and movement. But this time, she came out with 10/10 energy and zero hesitation – so I shed actual tears. It was such a memorable moment, seeing her let down her guard and just dance.
Cape Cod 2025 Highlights
Lazy beach days and new places to explore with the family.
Every summer my side of the family rents a house on the Cape. Most days are spent on the beach, wrangling the kids, and nights are in the kitchen cooking a big meal. This year we explored new beaches (Mayflower is amazing!), went to a Chatham baseball game, and had the best weather, with the only semi-muggy day reserved for shopping in town. I will update my Guide to Chatham and What to Do on a Cape Cod Vacation soon!
Here are a few snaps from our trip:
Hilton Head First Impressions
A sun-kissed family escape we’re already dreaming of returning to.
I have so much to discuss regarding our first visit to Hilton Head with Brandon’s family. First, it is absolutely gorgeous – an island of greens and blues with spanish moss trees hanging over the roads and incredible sunrises. Second, I really hope we are going back next summer. I’m working on a full post about our trip with details about the home we stayed in, the area we explored for a week, and all the great restaurants/shops. Bonus: We had a family photo session with the incredibly talented CameraKoala – another post about our beach family photos coming soon!
What I Am Reading in August 2025
- “Golden Son” by Pierce Brown – Book #2 Red Rising Series – Science Fiction/Fantasy – Darrow, an undercover rebel in a color-coded society, continues his mission to break the system. I got stuck somewhere around the middle and almost quit reading. However, I pushed through the very detailed chapters to be so hooked on the action I finished the book in one night.
- “Morning Star” by Pierce Brown – Book #3 Red Rising Series – CURRENTLY READING – Might I say it is better than book 2?
- “Shield of Sparrows” by Devney Perry – CURRENTLY LISTENING – Kallie (my friend and podcast co-host) recommended this new fantasy romance and I’m enjoying it!
Follow me on Goodreads for my book reviews and to see what I’m reading/what I’ve read in real time.
What I Bought and Liked in August 2025
- The best alternative for a baby monitor on vacation – only $25 – crystal clear pan/tilt camera that connects to your phone or Alexa/Google Home
- I don’t love dupes, but I was hesitant to buy the Free People Hot Shot Mini without trying it on first – so I bought a copycat on Amazon for half the price. The Verdict: It works… fits a bit odd, but gets the job done as a loose athletic dress (with built-in shorts). I think I will buy the real Free People Mini!
- Outfits for Beach Family Photos
- This beach coverup – it’s not quite the same as what’s in the picture, but it’s pretty chic for the price
Where did you travel this summer? Do you have any favorite summer reads or purchases? Let me know in the comments!
Loved reading about your travels!