Our trip to Florida started off with a very smooth flight to Tampa, followed by a pleasant surprise at the hotel. I had booked free rooms at the Crowne Plaza in Tampa using my 1,000's of points accumilated while traveling to Oklahoma. When I checked in, the guy behind the desk notified me of a upgrade to my room. He said I will be staying in the penthouse! We felt like rock stars. The room, well actually rooms, was huge...
The next morning, we started off the day like any good southener would: A Waffle House breakfast.
Virginia liked this place even more that Cracker Barrel, so that must say something. William, our most gracious waiter, was 'typical' Waffle House quality!
I think this may be our Christmas card for 2009!
After a short drive down to Palm Island, we jumped into the boat and made it over to our house. While this house was much bigger, and much nicer than previous houses, it was a bit off the ocean beach (about 9 houses away). It did have a pool however, so Sylvia tried that out. She absolutely loved the water.
Speaking of water, bath time was done perfectly using the deep sink in the laudry room. Sylvia took a liking to the bright silver faucet... Luckily she didn't turn on the hot water while bathing, but that is what four hands are for! I think we are in trouble now, with her love of shiny things.
I won't go into details, but I was somewhat ill for a couple days. I finally got out of the house and went for a walk with Jamie and Sylvia. Isn't that a great picture?
Here is the path to get down to the ocean. Missy, Liz, and Mom all walked the beach for hours and hours collecting about 2 tons of shells. Luckily I wasn't in charge of carrying those home!
Sylvia seeing the ocean (well actually Gulf of Mexico) for the first time.
Another great shot if the little one. She was a very, very good baby throughout the entire vacation.
We will have more to tell, including more pictures, shortly. Bye for now.
