Here we go! We weren't able to get Clara's new glasses before we left so she sometimes borrowed mine, our prescriptions are really similar. I thought she looked really cute in them but she's set on getting black frames.
Driving alligator alley across Florida to get to the keys.
We stopped to maybe see an alligator but the only thing we found is that Florida grasshoppers are MUCH bigger (and creepier) than Missouri grasshoppers.
We went to Robert Is Here fruit stand 15 years ago when Thad and I were first married. It's only gotten bigger and better since then.
We shared a strawberry and key lime smoothie.
And then on to the hotel in Islamorada. We loved this place and are already planning our return.
and then off to dinner... I already miss the free range chickens and the curly tailed lizards.
Went in to World Wide Sportsman (Florida's Bass Pro) to see The Pillar, the sister ship to Hemingway's boat.
and then out in time for sunset.
The next day we kayaked and paddle boarded and swam in the pool some more. I LOVE paddle boarding, seriously considering trading my kayak for a paddle board.
We went to Robbie's pier to feed the tarpon, which was another thing that Thad and did 15 years ago. The kids didn't like it as much as I thought they would. Between low tide and the dead fish, they were not impressed.
The next day we went on down to Key West.
and of course had to show the kids sunset at Mallory Square...
Then the next morning we walked Duval Street (before it got crazy) and went to Hemingways' house.
then brunch at Blue Heaven and of course key lime pie.
That afternoon/evening we booked a dolphin tour/snorkeling trip.
seeing the dolphins play was so much fun!
went snorkeling in which there are no photos and I lost my wedding ring :( but we saw lots of rays and a nurse shark.
Back to the hotel by boat :)
snorkeling is exhausting.
Then back up the keys to Blue Hole...
Eli spotted this key deer in the brush.
and then she came out and crossed the path right behind us. Also a small alligator came out from under the observation deck and we got to see him munch on something.
Then to our last hotel in Key Largo. It was a bit of dissappointment but even crappy hotels have fantastic views in the keys.
So we stayed away from the hotel as much as possible. Lunch at the Islamorada Fish company...
and a second snorkeling trip.
leaving Key Largo...
we stopped at the Florida panther refuge on the way to the airport.
didn't spot any panthers but found an airplant on the trail.
Finally back home to our puppies. They are exhausted from playing with their new friends at Happy Tails.