Three Tickets to Paradise

Last weekend the girls and I were so excited to board our plane for Florida to spend the week with G&G.  Sunshine, beaches, and palm trees were calling to us!

 I loved that we had a really simple vacation.  We swam in the pool a lot, played at the beach, and relaxed around the condo.  Grandma taught Sara how to play Yahtzee, we watched "Overboard", and Todd took me on a couple of good bike rides to show me the area ... lots of low-key fun.  As usual, the weather was beautiful and the scenery as perfect as ever. 

The girls enjoyed using the boogie boards that Todd bought for Melissa and me on a family trip to Florida back in the 90's.  They are still in great shape, and both girls got the hang of riding the waves.  Lots of laughs on the boogie boards, and it was so fun to watch the girls truly enjoy the ocean without fear or trepidation.  There's nothing like playing in ocean waves!

 

 

Sun, surf, and spirits.

 

 My beach bum parents ... I told them that they look tan and thin.  I think the Florida life suits them.

 During a day at Captiva, Joey's Grill pulled up and a line quickly formed for hot dogs, ice cream and drinks.  We all enjoyed some snacks.

 Seriously ... who could turn down making a living this way?  The boat is equipped with a grill, large coolers, and a little serving station.  We decided that Joey is a retiree making some extra cash stopping along Captiva each day.  When he came through a second time, we let Sara take Emma and walk down the shore by themselves to get a Sprite.  She loved the opportunity to be independent, and even left a tip in the jar.

 Sara got it in her head that she wanted to try shrimp.  She liked it so much that she ordered it a second time a couple of nights later.  She's taking her New Year's resolution of trying new things much more seriously than I ever suspected.  Proud of this girl!

 Selfie (I regretted leaving my selfie stick at home)!

 The girls enjoyed their "sleepovers" in the den, falling asleep to "Despicable Me 2". 

 On our last night, Emma was thrilled to finally find a place that served her beloved rice and beans!

Florida Girls!

 I didn't get any pictures of our pool time, but we were all excited to watch Emma throughout the week.  My goal was to go to Florida this year without having to bring her floaty ... she jumped in day one and never looked back.  So thrilled to have two swimmers now!  Also no pics this year of the breathtaking sunsets (to which we sang and embarrassed Sara) or sub-par live music (to which we danced and embarrassed Sara), but we enjoyed it all (even Sara, although she won't admit it).

We left Florida late last night with sun-tanned skin and full hearts.  I do realize how lucky we are, and I'm very thankful that my girls have the opportunity to make special vacation memories with their G&G.  What a wonderful week in paradise!