On Boxing Day, I loaded up the girls and hit the road for the Clark family’s annual after-Christmas shopping trip—a tradition that’s become as much a part of our holidays as unwrapping presents. It’s something I picked up from Mama, who used to take me on these outings when I was a teenager. Now, I’m carrying it on with my own crew.

Usually, we stick to the local mall, but this year, I decided to mix things up. Feeling adventurous, we made the trek to Raleigh and spent the day exploring Crabtree Valley Mall.

It was our first visit, and it absolutely lived up to the hype! Opened in 1972, Crabtree remains the largest enclosed mall in the Research Triangle. With two sprawling floors of shops, we made it our mission to explore as many as we could. We snapped photos, indulged in a delicious lunch, and, yes, spent more money than we probably should have.

No regrets, though. It was the perfect setting for a day packed with laughter, a little splurging, and a whole lot of memories.

Honestly, I needed it. Life has been a whirlwind lately—always on the go, juggling projects, travel, and everything in between. And my girls? They’re growing up so fast it makes my heart ache. Days like Boxing Day remind me to slow down and soak in these moments because they feel so fleeting.

How much longer will they want to go after-Christmas shopping with me? I don’t know, but I’ll hold on to these traditions—and these memories—for as long as I can.