Sarasota

So it turns out that we hadn't been to Sarasota in a while (well, at least Sam and I hadn't), so we decided to make a quick visit on our way to The River.  I bet you're going to tell me that Sarasota isn't on the way to The River and you are absolutely correct.  Chris will tell you, "Once you're in the car for 12 hours, what's another 4?"  My answer to that is, "Another 4 hours in the car with my children, plus an additional 4 hours back to the river."  But alas, it was easier/cheaper than buying plane tickets for a separate trip!

We were mostly there to visit people, and with our visit falling over 4th of July weekend, that turned out to be pretty easy!  One pizza party at Great Grandma's nursing home, one family party hosted by Dave and Debbie, and one family outing to see Fireworks.  (Yes, Annabelle is still afraid of fireworks.  But she had a plan that involved Grammy's lap and her hands over her ears.)

Sam pointed out to us, by way of asking if we could go to "big fireworks" again next year, that this was our kids' first time to see a proper fireworks display.  Very different than the ones we set off on our own.  Maybe we'll have to venture downtown for the big show next year.

And it looks like someone new has made a claim to what used to be Aunt Becky's room.  Turns out that Aunt Becky is perfectly happy to share with her fellow curly-headed HunniGal.