Going Home

When we were flying in over the water about to land in Florida, I got misty eyed. I was overcome with emotion at the idea of being back home. Moving up north was a big change for me. I had lived in Florida my entire life. I was used to living near my family, working at the same place for years; I had a steady routine in my life.

This trip was interesting for me. I returned home expecting to feel the same, but I didn't. I am a different person. This past year my perspective on life has drastically changed. I have set goals for myself that I am determined to accomplish. I am taking chances and trying new things, just to say I tried. Being home reminded me of the many things I wanted to change in my life and I realized how much I had accomplished.

It also made me miss the friendships I had. It's not the easiest thing to move and make new friends. Seeing my friends and family made me want to remain a part of it. Some friends did not meet me which stressed the point that it is hard to maintain relationships when apart. The friends who I saw, I treasure (I truly do). There were noticeable differences in the conversation. Things had changed for them as well as me. So I guess they are right when they say, you can't go home again. I enjoyed my visit and will return soon, but my home is now up north.

Pictures include family photos, lunch, and dinner at the Irish Pub!

Vacation, Vacation

As I prepare for my whirlwind tour of various places, it got me thinking about vacation plans. I recently planned 4 trips for a 3 month period (not sure why I did that). I love to travel. I like seeing new places, visiting the tourist sites, and getting a feel for a location. I enjoy exploring, getting lost and found again, and trying new things. I like to take mini-trips over the weekend and mega-trips that require a lot of planning.

I think this comes from having parents who planned large family vacations. Growing up we had the Revolutionary War trip, which entailed multiple states. A car accident did not slow down this trip. We drove to Newark and got another rental after a trip to the hospital and visited Saratoga in the same day. We had the trip to Colorado, where we went to the top of Pikes Peak in August and got caught in a hale storm. Those pictures are memorable since we're huddled against the hale wearing shorts. Mom and dad always had every moment of these trips planned out. We also had the relaxed trips to visit family.

My husband and I continuously discuss a trip to the U.K. We have been planning this trip for 2 years. We sidelined it last year to visit New Zealand instead. All my friends have repeatedly been to the U.K., so I will eventually go. I plan to take multiple trips so I can explore. But there's so many others I would like to visit as well; Manchu Picchu, Mayan Ruins in Mexico, Australia, Hawaii, and many more.

So, where would you like to visit? If money was not a concern, what would be your top 3 destinations?

Future Gators

Many of you know my children are my animals. I love and cherish every day with my cat and dog. Unfortunately, they are not the brightest bulbs out there. My dog knows how to "go home" to his kennel and sit. That's the extent of his education. He still takes the leash between his teeth and tries to walk me at times. My cat is a lost cause. I can't even get her to play with her toys.

So, my nieces and nephew are the children I get to gloat over. My nephew has an extensive vocabulary for a five year old. He has impressed me with his master negotiations with the adults in his life (I mean this in a good way, promise). He could name every piece of John Deere equipment before he was 2. As smart as he is, his parents are Noles, so I can be proud, but his college aspirations have already been determined.

My nieces have pleasantly surprised me this week. My oldest niece missed getting Principals Honor Roll by one grade. She is also participating in the Districts Math Bee, after winning her school's Bee. Very Proud!!! I explained to her she could be a future Gator! My youngest niece is proving she will let nothing stop her. My sister installed a baby gate that allows the adults to walk through. The adults push a button and the gate swings open. My niece was very upset that she couldn't get through the gate. She watched the adults for a while and figured out the button on the first day. So very proud!!! My two Gator gals!