Quick Trip to Florida

Two years ago when I took Natalie to Florida for a long weekend to see family and visit Magic Kingdom, I remember promising to myself that I do the same with Gavin. It was such a treat to spend that time with her, as well as my dad and brother.

Somehow, two years flew by and soon it was time to start planning my trip with Gavin and my dad. With much the same itinerary as with Natalie, we enjoyed in St. Pete with my grandparents, a day at Disney World and some time in Orlando with my aunt and cousins - all packed in Dec. 9-12.

The entire trip went wonderfully. Gavin was a dream on the plane and in the car. We had a great-time with my grandparents - walking along the canal, playing on Fort DeSoto Park Beach, riding the trolley bus to St. Pete Pier and going out for a shrimp dinner. We chat with them weekly on Skype, but it's definitely not the same as being together. I'm so thankful for the time we shared.

We left early Saturday morning for Disney World, for our first visit to Animal Kingdom. We spent the entire day visiting characters, watching theater performances (Lion King and Nemo), watching the parade, looking at animals, eating in "Africa," riding on trains and even taking Gavin on his first carnival ride. Halfway through Gavin passed out from shear exhaustion and wouldn't even wake up for lunch! It was a great day and I really enjoyed having my dad along with us to share in the fun. I know we'll be back.

Finally, we wrapped up our trip with an evening at my aunt's house, visiting with more family for a few hours. It was good to catch up with everyone and see Gavin with his cousins.