First Trip of 2010

Not only was it our first trip of the year, but it was the first trip that Eric and I have had without Collin. We went to Fort Lauderdale, FL. We had thought about a cruise, but when we decided not to take Collin we figured that would be too long away from him and we would be bound on the ship for a certain number of days. So, we wanted to getaway somewhere warm. When we flew out of Dallas the weather was about 13 degrees. When we arrived in Florida, it was in the 30's! Everyone there was going crazy because it had been so cold for a few days. They say they aren't used to it being that cold for more than maybe 2 days or so. All of the restaurants were pretty cold inside because they didn't turn on the heaters. People were all bundled up. Our first day there we hung out around our hotel and walked up and down the street. The next day we took a water taxi tour. It was really cool! That probably was the highlight of our trip...however, when we looked at the map to see where to get on, we both thought we were closer to one zone than another. Except we were both wrong because we thought our hotel was to the other direction of where we needed to be. So, we ended up walking several more blocks than we needed to. I was worn out by the time we made it to the taxi. Thank goodness we didn't have to get off of it if we didn't want to! We did get off in the downtown area to do some shopping and have lunch. We ate at an excellent Italian place called Noodles Panini. They had a sign out front that they had been voted the best meatballs of South Florida. We both had meatball subs...they were incredible! However, I had heartburn that night and for a few nights after. It could have been the sauce, or the fact that I ate my entire sandwich. Eric wasn't even able to finish his. Plus, I drank tea...which I normally just drink water. Anyhow, it was worth it. It was a great meal! We got to see some billionaire homes and yachts. Just to hear the stories about how some of the people acquired their wealth is incredible to hear. We both enjoy that very much. On our last day there it was finally warm enough to ditch our coats and lounge by the pool. So, we did. Eric enjoyed some drinks and I had myself a virgin pina colada. We both fell asleep for a little while in the chairs. Then we went down to the beach and got to put our feet in the sand, FINALLY! We sat down there long enough to get some sand and shells for CC, take a few pics and then back up to the pool. After that we headed home. We sure missed Collin, but we know he had a good time with his Gramma, Papaw and Aunt Allie. My Mom said they got used to him being there and now she's depressed that he's gone. We talked to him every day on the phone. They said he did well, but wanted Mommy at bedtime. He was a little clingy to me for a couple of days after that, but he's back to normal now! Fun times~ Now we are trying to get our house prepared for another member that will be here before we know it!! We have a little rearranging to do, but we pretty much have an idea of what we want to do.