Vacation part 1: Western Caribbean cruise

Our first stop was in the Grand Caymans. It wasn't nearly as cold as home but we shivered in our shorts and wrapped up in beach towels to stay warm




We went to a turtle farm






Princess Cays was our only warm stop. Lincoln and Shiloh hung out in playland why John and I snorkeled. Then we all went on a peddle-boat.






Here are a couple shots showing our cabin:





We had a wonderful time on the cruise but the best part was still to come

Hanging In FL with the family

After the cruise we hung out with George, Zoe, and Sophie and spent some time with Cricket too. We had 1 beautiful sunny day and wisely went to the beach. I could live in FL in January...





This brown blob is a manatee! I understand they are gentle creatures but it's still a bit creepy to realize that something this big is hanging out right next to you in the river. I didn't get a picture but I saw 1 surface and breathe. Its face reminds me of the dragon in NeverEnding Story. Only a really lonely sailor would mistake this guy for a mermaid...



We also saw an alligator family. Can you find the 11 baby gators? Hint: 2 of the babies aren't with the rest.



Spending time with the family in Florida was the highlight of our vacation. Thanks Cricket! Thanks George! We appreciate your hospitality and we've already started working on Linda and Don about another cruise and visit!