It's been a month since I last posted. How in the world can that be? We are in the midst of third quarter exams at school before spring break. Then the crazy (seemingly non-stop) testing begins: FCAT, Benchmarks, EOC, MAP,AP and IB exams. And then, of course, there are the final exams. The spring is a whirlwind for me during the week. As such, I look forward to doing something fun on the weekends.
Over the Presidents Day holiday, we headed to south Florida to visit friends and family. I am thankful to have my mom's brother and sister live within driving distance. They are the closest family we have down here. We spent the weekend being spoiled by my aunt's gourmet cooking, catching a jazz concert, checking out a manatee museum, swimming and watching Isabel swing her first gold club. It was a short but filled three days. On the way home, I decided to just head east off the interstate until I hit the Atlantic Ocean. We were in no rush. We ended up at a great little beach and hung out for an hour or so before heading back home.
A couple of weekends ago, we were planning to head over to Palatka for the annual Azalea Festival which, for some reason, I always seem to forget each year until after it is over. I was so proud of myself for putting it on the calendar. Unfortunately, both Isabel and I came down with bronchitis and the trip was canceled. Last weekend, however, while we were in Saint Augustine, we called a friend and found out they were actually on their way to the very place where the festival had taken place. We ended up joining them and had a blast! Who knew you could actually HIKE in Florida? (I'll tell you who! My THIGHS the next morning!)
I think we are going to spend this weekend working in the yard. The ligustrum and crepe myrtles are starting to bud. The dogwood is is full bloom... just glorious. Isabel wants to have a vegetable garden this summer. I think it's a wonderful idea. We just need to figure out the details.
Here are some pictures from our adventures and, as always, you can click to enlarge them.
Playing Jenga with Great Uncle Tom
Outside The Manatee Museum
Inside the Manatee Museum
They look a little like French Fries, huh?
Great Aunt Moe showing her how to hold the club
Swinging Away...
A Little Side Track to the Beach
Total joy
At The Entrance to The Ravines
Clearly, the azaleas were still in bloom
One of the two suspension bridges
Hiking up from the ravine
Time for a pose, folks!
A rare photo of the two of us
And another : )
