As always Florida did not disappoint me, but things sure have changed since I spent carefree youthful days living there. Actually Florida is basically the same, I just no longer suffer from "wish I still lived here" nostalgia. Spending time with my sisters and their girls always makes me wish we were lived closer. That the kids could play on a regular basis and that our shopping trips were more frequent. I love seeing them with their nephew, and I adore the little ladies that call me Auntie. My sister Barbara was sick with pneumonia while we were there, and she still woke me up every morning with a cup of coffee and a quick bathroom chat before the stir of little children pulled us in every direction. My sister Kim and I took Leavitt to the outlet mall and got our retail fix… not that either of us probably needed it but it felt good just the same. Having so many siblings has been the best gift my Dad has given me, sisters don't ever walk away. Children, family spats, and everyday drama only makes sisters closer and I needed an extra dose of that. Next time I hope Rachel and Miss Saylor will join us for some girl time! Maybe even have a cousin magic kingdom excursion with Russell... I would love to see their faces at Disney.
Nick flew down and met me half way through the vacation. As soon as we picked him up we were on our way to see his Grandparents in Ocala… Leavitt was sick, Nick was ticked off about some work nonsense and I was left to drive the crazy train. Just seeing Nick at the airport was exciting for me, I love a little family adventure and I certainly missed him while we were apart.
Leavitt spent his days toddling around their house hugging the dog, scaring the cat, turning off computers and throwing phones. Occasionally he played with the toys they so kindly had there for him. He scared the daylights out of everyone with his impressive projectile vomitting skills and my only saving grace was Brenda, some chardonnay and a jar full of M&Ms. Finally we had a pool day and Leavitt got some face time with a horse. Overall we enjoyed some real relaxation… as much as any parent with a sick kid on vacation can. Leavitt discovered a love for kiwi while at his great grandparents and has been chowing down on them ever since we got back.
I have to admit even though I am less than thrilled with Leavitt's new toddler tantrums and wild antics, it is nice for others (especially Nick) to see what it's really like with him... I feel like I have mommy street cred now... Especially with the busted lip he gave me right before we left.
Here are some of my favorite memories from the trip... We hope to be back in Florida sooner rather than later!! Of course per usual we forgot to get a family photo of the three of us... Whoops.
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