Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Girl's Trip: Florida

I haven't known Kim for very long, but I have learned that she has great ideas. Ideas like getting all of Leanne's sisters-in-law together for a vacation. She is also a fantastic planner and booked and arranged our stay in beautiful Marco Island Florida. 

This is a view of the beach from the balcony of our hotel. Picturesque. It was too cold to enjoy though and the only time I stepped foot on the sand was late one night when we were searching for an empty hot tub.

Although I had hopes of reading on the beach and getting a tan I will settle for shopping and hanging out with these ladies any day.  It's nice when your biggest decision of the day is where to eat.
We did take one day to see some sites which included an air-boat tour.
There is only about 1 -1 1/2 feet of water but it seemed deeper. We rode through a maze of mangrove trees. It was loud, fast and maybe even a little CSI-Miami-ish.
The water was too salty for any alligators, but we did come across this cute little guy. 
I was front row for the raccoon and I've got to say I was a little scared that he was going to attack me. It happens. Ever see Elf? 
Because we didn't see any alligators on the air-boat ride, we drove to the other side of the main road where the water was less salty. Holy alligators! It was crazy, they were everywhere. Our boat guide (who I want to call Walter) told us that the way to measure an alligator is by the length of the head. An inch is equal to a foot. This is the biggest one we saw. I'm glad it was across the river from us.
This one took a turn and swam toward us.
Another stop along the way to check out some birds. We aren't normally bird watchers, but there are some pretty interesting birds in Florida.
And finally, the reason we were all together--to celebrate Leanne's birthday.  It was a little hit and miss with our meals. But this Thai/Sushi place was super yummy.
And although it turns out the waiter didn't want to dance for Leanne, he still brought her a birthday dessert.
Now lest you shed too many tears for poor Matt stuck at home with the kids, don't despair. While I was away there was plenty of fast food, mini golfing and even some one-armed Weezer rockin'.

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