Unexpected Florida Adventure

When we returned from our camping trip, Mike was scheduled to go to Florida for 10 days. We were sad to see him go. But, he called us when he had been gone for a couple days and mentioned that he wouldn't have much to keep him busy over the weekend. Then he casually asked if we wanted to come see him. I think he was shocked (and thrilled!) when I called him back the next day to say we were coming. We bought plane tickets on a Tuesday and left two days later--last Thursday. Carson was so excited! He kept telling everyone that we were going to Florida to see his dad and play on the beach and build a sandcastle. We were in Wal-Mart buying a few last minute things and I saw someone I knew. I chatted with them for a while and when we walked away Carson said, "Why didn't you let me tell her that we're going to Florida? Mom, you better go back and tell her!"

After I bought the tickets I started getting really nervous about taking the boys by myself on the airplane. I kept praying that everything would work out and that someone would help us if we needed it. Everything went great and we were very blessed.

We got to the airport early enough and the kids played for a while in the play area.
Then we boarded the plane. We were some of the last people on and the flight attendants asked Carson if he wanted to come meet the pilots. We headed up to the cockpit (I thought they wouldn't let you do that anymore--post 9/11) and the pilots let Carson push two buttons for them. The flight attendant told me to take a picture.
The boys did great. We never even got out of our seats. We were all very excited to see Mike at the airport.

The next day we went to our hotel on Cocoa Beach. We played in the sand and ocean a lot.



Or we played in the pool. They had a kids pool that was pirate-ship themed. It had slides and was a lot of fun (even for the parents).
Blake really liked the slides too.
We really wore Blake out. Here he is after one of our beach adventures. He just rolled over and fell asleep.
Mike and I decided to take the kids sailing one of the days. They weren't so sure about wearing the life jackets, but eventually they warmed up to the idea. It was very peaceful and relaxing and we saw a few dolphins playing in the water. Carson got to steer the boat with Captain Greg.

On our last full day we went to Sea World. We liked all the animals, rides, exhibits and shows. Here's Carson feeding the sea lions.

Touching a sting ray.
They had a Shamu-themed roller coaster that Carson loved. He and Mike rode it several times. It was a great time to be on vacation because nothing was crowded and it wasn't terribly hot.




On the way home. Blake fell asleep almost immediately on the first flight. Blake, Carson and I all slept on the last flight.
We had so much fun on this last-minute, unplanned adventure! Sometimes it seems like a dream. Can't believe we did it! Now we're still waiting for Mike to get back. He got delayed because of some extra work.