We spent the 2020 holiday season in Florida with my father-in-law and my husband’s extended family. It was a much needed family vacation in Florida after spending most of the year at home. We usually travel at least 3 times a year. But Florida was our one and only trip for 2020 thanks to you know what. We decided to road trip instead of flying to travel safely around less people. The good news about not traveling all year my husband had PLENTY of vacation days saved up. We were able to stay for about a month. A month of family time, good food, belly laughs, and relaxation.
We got a chance to visit MacDill Air Force Base’s beach. It was the perfect 75 degree day with a breeze. The beach was fairly empty and I couldn’t stop staring at the beauty of the sun setting over the water. Also, my husband and father-in-law’s mannerisms are identical LOL. P.S.- my father-in-law is going to yell at me for posting pictures of him on here LMAO. But it’s worth it because I love him and ya’ll should love him too.
One of my close college friends, Kim, lives 10 minutes away from my father-in-law. I got to see her and spend much needed girl time with her. We visited a delicious Black owned brunch spot 7th and Grove in Ybor City. (I recommend the shrimp and grits with pineapple mimosas!) She also took me to check out the Tampa Heights Riverwalk area which was beautiful. After not seeing any of my friends for the entire year spending time with Kimmy was just want my soul needed!
Family Moments Recap:
While in Florida we also got to meet Kris’ cousin, Chris, and his family, for the first time. There are some people you meet and immediately feel connected to. Like you’ve known them for years. This is how we felt meeting each other that first day. What a blessing it is to get in contact with new family and feeling a familial connection from the beginning.
We spent some time with my husband’s Aunt and Uncle. His Uncle makes some of the most delicious Jamaican food so you all know I was in HEAVEN. Another day we ventured to the downtown Tampa Bayshore area. We had delicious Mediterranean food and more beautiful water views. The houses along the coast are beautiful!
My favorite part of the trip is by far the time spent relaxing at my father-in-law’s house. We even started binge watching Game of Thrones. It became our nightly routine to tuck the girls in bed, make our alcoholic beverage of choice, and watch at least 3 episodes a night. If you all know me then you know lounging in my pajamas while drinking a mimosa is one of my happy places.
To add to the excitement of our road trip we stayed at hotels in Pensacola driving to and from Florida. Jordyn and Riley absolutely LOVE staying at hotels. They were both extremely clean and they handled the check in and check out process with minimal contact. The Hilton hotels are our favorite, but my personal favorite is the Home2 Suites. From the cleanliness to the decor and large rooms. There’s everything to love about them!
A Christmas and NYE family vacation in Florida was an awesome way to end 2020. We’re already looking forward to Thanksgiving this year. Jordyn and Riley thoroughly enjoyed their time with their “Dad-Dad”. I hope you and your loved ones had an amazing holiday season as well. If the past year has taught us anything it’s taught us to enjoy the little things which are truly the big things.
I wish you could have stopped in Tallahassee. Maybe next time. I need to get to Tampa and see the family too.
Hopefully we can stop in Tallahassee next time! Yes, definitely go enjoy, Tampa 😊
Kris, can I get your Dad’s phone number I would love to talk to him it’s been years.