Florida Vacay

We spent ten glorious days in Florida this summer visiting family and soaking up the sun's rays. It was a lovely time. We got to sleep in when we wanted, we played when we wanted, and as always, we made our mouths happy sampling some of South Florida's tastiest fares.

One of the things I'm truly grateful for, and appreciated the most, was the time we spent with my mother-in-law, Twinks. Because of her, we truly got to experience a true vacation with her being so attentive to all of us.  Whether it was making us delicious home-cooked meals, spending quality time with Buddy Roller while The Hubs and I stole away for a date, or just playing board games as a family most nights...it was truly a treasured time.

Here are more photos if you'd like to see...


First stop...Orlando.

We picked up a few feathered friends in Sunrise. Crappy cell phone photos...I forgot to bring my camera on this outing.

When in Miami, we have to visit my grandmother and Roller's great-grandmother...Mama.

We ate a lot of mangoes this trip. A lot. Check out the size of this one. Many of them were bigger than my hand. They were so sweet and juicy. Makes my mouth water just typing this!

Suiting up at Funderdome in Fort Lauderdale. We climbed the wall, did a ropes course, went down slides...basically we were all kids for a few hours. Fun!

We were told we had to check out Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlor in Dania Beach. No such luck on this first attempt; there was over an hour wait. Bummer!

We had lots of pool time, and a certain little someone overcame his fears and was swimmin' like a fish.

Date night at Southport Raw Bar in Fort Lauderdale. This was literally a little shack on the waterfront...very casual with great fresh seafood.

Best Old Bay peel and eat shrimp ever - couldn't stop eating to take a photo...see what's left at this point!

Fish and chips, Caesar salad, and lobster roll

More seafood on another outing.

Twinks and her favorite (her only) grandson...The Dunk. She has names for all of us :-)

And turns out, the second time's a charm for Jaxson's. It was good!

Ever feel for a really good burger or a float? We happened onto BurgerFi on our trip, and turns out there are several in the Atlanta area as well.

Beach time!

Last stop before heading home...Jacksonville.  Before hitting the road, we stopped for breakfast at Metro Diner which has been featured on Food Network's Diners Drive-Ins and Dives. Turns out their secret sweet and spicy sauce is good ole hot sauce and maple syrup. I had to try their famous chicken and waffles. It was sooo good...but oh so bad for you!

All in all, it was a great trip. But now back to reality as I face another school year. This week I'm setting up my classroom and gearing up for the best year ever!

Do something amazing and live your best life possible.