02Aug / 2014

Top 6 Things We Learned on Vacation

This brings an end to the blog series on our Family/Anniversary Vacation to Florida. There are a few pictures that didn’t make the #wilsongetaway previous blog posts or Flipagrams that I will share here along with 6 things my family and I learned on this trip.

Here are the Top 6:

6. Sharing a bathroom with 4 people when 2 people have their own bathroom at home brings to light all the bad habits. (I will now be intentionally reminding my son often to put the lid BACK DOWN! My mother-in-law instilled that lesson in my husband, I only think it fair to my future daughter-in-law no matter how far in the future that might be!)

5. “We proudly serve Starbucks.” Does not mean it will taste anything like Starbucks, and in some cases the gas station coffee is MUCH better and less expensive.

4. Send a post card each day to your home residence from the location you spent most of your time for that day highlighting the most memorable moments/events. Send it the next day (most hotels will mail it from the guest services desk if you provide the postage). There will be some post cards waiting on you when you return from your vacation and others will arrive as you return to your ‘normal’ life. Everyone can enjoy the vacation just a little longer.

4. Blog as you go, then schedule to publish the following week where it posts to your Social Media accounts. This lets you tell everyone about your vacation adventures without letting the opportunistic burglar know you are away from the house.

5. Keep your expectations low. If you expect great things and the situation doesn’t live up to it, you could unexpectedly rob yourself of joy you were intended to have but let unsubstantiated high expectations get in the way. (This one was compliments of Embug.)

6. Teach your children that “hole-in-the-wall” eateries are often the best way to taste the local flavor and have the best food. Our kids learned this lesson time and time again while we were on our #wilsongetaway. It will be one they won’t forget!

I hope you enjoyed this little blog series tracking our #wilsongetaway vacation. We aren’t sure when our next getaway will be, but this one will linger in our memories for a long time.

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01Aug / 2014

It’s a REAL Beach!

We woke early at Hawk’s Cay ready to head up through the Everglades and along the west Florida coast to Marco Island. Call it dumb luck, exhaustion at the end of an exciting and amazing trip, or just smart. Whatever you want to call it, my family will probably call this leg of the trip their favorite.

Since the moment we stepped on the plane on this adventure the kids have been talking about the time on the beach. The Space Coast we only had time for the Kennedy Space Center. The Everglades… NOBODY gets in that water, unless they want to be alligator dinner. Then there were the Keys. Beautiful, colorful, seabreeze… but no real sandy beaches. So came the term by my 11 year old while at Hawk’s Cay… “Faux Beach.”

We arrived in Marco Island at Noon. My husband was already sold. After driving the two-lane Scenic Highway 1, he was done with traffic and there was none…. HONEST! We came in from the Everglades so the kids didn’t see the coast until we went over a tall bridge welcoming you onto the island. There was many exclamations of joy and excitement… over and over again, “Real Beach, lots of it! Real sand!”

Unfortunately we wouldn’t gain access to the beach until after we checked into our hotel…and at noon, that was too early. Seeing that it was noon, and knowing we all were hungry I turned to my trusty “UrbanSpoon” app once again. This time it led us to a VERY local sandwich shop called “Big Al’s.” It was so local that the cashier knew the name of everyone who came in and left… except us. The sandwiches were awesome. I have never seen meatballs so big or so yummy on a meatball sub before (I stole a bite from Kritterman).

After lunch the kids couldn’t stand it anymore, so we decided to take a chance and see if our room was available for early check in. Off to the Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa we went, hopeful we would be beach side within the hour.

Luck was on our side. We were on the beach in no time, reserved an hour of family fun on a jet ski and played, sunned and relaxed beach side. Aside from the hour on the jet skis the kids spent hours beach-combing and building sandcastles. I finished a book I started mid-trip (Legend by Marie Lu) and Eric enjoyed the lack of crowds and the opportunity to just sit.

After 5+ hours of beach relaxation we cleaned up, went back to the beach to catch the sunset and then enjoyed our only “Seafood Buffet” of the trip (the Hilton does an incredible Seafood Buffet).

On Saturday morning, all but Kritterman arose to catch the sunrise on the beach and gather a few more sea shells. We also got to see a scientist examine a recently hatched sea-turtle nest and learn a little bit about her job. While eating breakfast a storm rolled in and persisted the remainder of the morning. We longed for a little more time on the beach and will definitely return to Marco Island again.

This #wilsongetaway has been a home-planned event that won’t soon be forgotten. So glad we saw so much… can’t wait to return to some of the same spots again.

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31Jul / 2014

20 Years, 2 kids, 2 dogs, 1 cat, 2 snakes and 1 fish

On July 23rd, 1994, 20 years ago, Eric and I for better or worse said I do. Since then we have had a revolving door of pets and friends reside with us. However, lately we are keeping to our 11 year old daughter, Embug, 9 year old, Kristopher in regards to additional humans in the house. The animals far out number the humans with a boxer named Sammy, a Bichon Frise named Izzie, a very onry orange tabby named Ralphie, 2 snakes (Marty, Jr. and Bosco) and beta fish named Rainbow. So it is no wonder we needed a get away!

Long before we planned the destination for our 20th anniversary, we decided we would make it a family vacation. With that we agreed that a portion of the trip would allow us to enjoy time together and some just as a couple. The Hawk’s Cay Resort in Duck Key provided just the place. We arrived as the sun slipped below the horizon on July 22nd where we enjoyed a meal outside near the channel. It was a few hours after a rainstorm had come through and cooled the air making for a pleasant outdoor family meal.

The while the family slept I slipped out for a run. I will say humidity and warmth are not my friend. After 2 miles I unlaced my running shoes and traded them for a day poolside. We enjoyed spending the day going back and forth from the pool and a man-made lagoon/beach. The kids enjoyed water games and discovering resident anoles and iguanas who would occasionally make an appearance.

We were staying in a villa that was away from the actual hotel. It provided us with a condo like living space complete with two separate bedrooms (and two separate twin beds for the kids), front and back porches both upstairs and downstairs. Breakfast and lunch we utilized a limited grocery within the marina for coffee, breakfast biscuits and sandwich makings. Dinner the first night the kids ate at the villa while we enjoyed an anniversary outing. The outing included a sunset cruise and then dinner at “Hawk’s Cay” fine dining restaurant “Alma.” It was a nice evening for just the two of us to celebrate.

The next day we spent it once again at the pool and lagoon. Although there is no pictures the kids and Eric enjoyed messing around with a Kayak. Eric is still feeling the enjoyment of that excursion in his lower back.

Here are a few more images from our stay.

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30Jul / 2014

Cheeseburger in Paradise?

After a restful sleep at the TravelLodge we headed down historic Route 1 through the Keys all the way down into Key West.

We arrived in time to treat ourselves to a late lunch at the “Eaton Street Fish Market.” A find through the Urbanspoon app. While it derives most of it’s business from selling fresh caught local seafood and fish to those residing or staying in rental residences on the island, they serve a seasonal fresh menu. On this day we sampled the lobster roll, crab cake sandwich, seafood sandwich and salmon (the only non-local caught fish) sandwich all served with plantain chips. The food and the price was a delightful and delicious surprise.

We proceeded on our Key West adventure after lunch. We walked from the Gulf side of Duval Street to the Atlantic side. On this journey we treated ourselves to homemade ice cream, Historical Buildings (such as St. Paul’s Episcopal Church), many art galleries, and the obligatory tourist stop at the “Hog’s Breath Saloon” for a cool beverage and slice of Key Lime Pie.

We did not take a trolley ride, as Embug was feeling the effects of motion sickness from the congested drive down Route 1. However, if we ever venture to Key West again, that is something that I believe would be a great way to get to know more about the home of renown American author Ernest Hemingway.

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29Jul / 2014

Allligators, Mosquitos and Airboats, Oh my!

After a long evening drive the night before from Kennedy Space Center. We ended up at an unlikely motel. The TravelLodge recommended both on price and quality by Booking.com was a surprisingly great find. Many may have turned away as it is a one story true 70s style motel, complete with drive-up-to-your-door-and-park access. It looks very much like it probably did when these one-story temporary home-away-from-home motels were built. However, for $75 a night, including microwave, refrigerator and free hot breakfast it is the deal of the week if one is wanting to explore the Everglades.

On the morning of our planned Everglade adventure we stopped for the necessary Starbucks (mom always feels better about an outdoor adventure if it is prefaced with a cup of Starbucks!) and then headed to the Alligator Farm.

At the Alligator Farm there were threats of storm looming in the distance. The occasional boom of thunder and lightening didn’t deter us from our airboat ride. We saw alligators and cranes as we progressed through the Everglades. It is amazing how the boats glide over six inches to a foot or two of water and it is everywhere. During the airboat excursion we were given the thrill of high speeds and 360’s. The kids and adults loved it. I think we would have stayed on them all day if we had the option.

Once we finished the airboat ride we got to see the alligators being hand fed. This was a weeee bit daunting as the ‘gators’ seemed to have no problem crawling up the 3 foot chainlink fence that separate us from them. Of course, we and the 100 other people didn’t back away from the fence either.

Within minutes of the conclusion of the hand feeding a downpour commenced. In Arkansas I call it a “toad-floater.” We waited for a bit for it to die down enough to make a dash to our rental car and then we were off to find lunch.

One of the fun things about vacations is finding those not-so-common eateries.

Today was no exception. On our way from the Alligator Farm to the Everglades National Park we found “Gator Grill.” A little road side foodie stop. It had a lot of the feeling of a food truck. To our delight we were able to get grilled gator tail and frog legs. To Kritterman’s delight he was able to procure the best 1lb. bacon cheese burger he has ever had in his life. It was so delicious we returned at 5:30 for an early dinner. We knew it was the best ever and didn’t know when we might be back. On top of it, we were able to teach the kids the #1 rule of dining on vacation… “The hole-in-the wall places make the best local food.”

It was still a downpour when we finished our lunch visit to “Gator Grill.” Eric always knows if you throw in some wine tasting in with the nature hiking, momma is always a happier camper. So we drove down to “Schnebly’s Winery.” There we sampled wines made from avacado, guava, mango, and passion fruit. All fruits common to South Florida. It was a delight and we ended up taking two bottles from this most southern winery in the United States with us to enjoy later on the vacation.

Finally the rain let up and we were able to head into the Everglades. The forest and swamps are lush with growth. The Gumbo Limbo trees with their smooth bark, colorful crickets and quiet alligators were an astounding sight. Unfortunately the mosquitoes were out in mass after the rain and ate us alive. After walking two trails and attempting a third we jumped back into our rental vehicle. Mosquitos- 1, Wilson family- 0.

We then headed back to “Gator Grill.” The owner recommended we check out “Robert Was Here Fruitstand” where they graciously cut up a ripe mango we purchased. We also bought star fruit and passion fruit to enjoy on the next part of our journey. It was quite a lively fruitstand with a bit of an animal farm, John Deere Tractor collection and a dog who liked to stand on his dog house to get a better view.

Finally we ended the night at a FroYo shop near our hotel. Surprisingly, FroYo shops are not easy to find in SoFla and with my family that can be dangerous. Happy to locate our cool creamy FroYo, we were content and exhausted from an exciting day in the Everglades!

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28Jul / 2014

“One small step for man…”

The first full day of our vacation in Florida it only made sense for us to spend the day at Kennedy Space Center (KSC).

After the flight from Tampa and drive across state to Titusville the day before, we were refreshed and eager to see what KSC had to offer. This was a bucket list item especially for me (mom) who loves anything to do with NASA, space and Astronauts. (I secretly hope someday to become an astronaut or at least participate in the NASA Educator program.)

As we drove into the facility we were met with a huge sign that was overshadowed by a large ominous building that we would learn soon housed the Atlantis itself and the interactive exhibit dedicated to the NASA Shuttle Program.

When we arrived shortly before 10 we headed straight to the Atlantis exhibit. As you enter you wind your way up. Along the way on the walls are the quotes of astronauts from the many missions flown for the Shuttle program. (I love quotes and all of these were incredible that I couldn’t just do one.)

You then entered a room where the history of how the Shuttle program began was shared. All I can say is that you have to see it. The story of the birth of the Shuttle program made this 80’s baby tearful and proud. The introduction into the exhibit was breathtaking. When the magnificent production concluded the screen lifted and at eye-line you were met with the actual Atlantis Shuttle in all of its magnificence.

There were many points of interest in the exhibit. The kids loved the unusual facts that were part of the entire exhibit. They also enjoyed the interactive displays, including the touch screens and simulators. Kritterman loved the slide that took you to the bottom floor as well as the toilet. Emmarie enjoyed the opportunities to sit in a model of the cockpit and see how astronauts ate in the Unity room of the the Space Station.

The time flew by and before we knew it we needed to be at our very special planned lunch with an astronaut. This is something that can be purchased as part of the visit to KSC. It was a great day to select this opportunity, as KSC was celebrating the 45th anniversary of Apollo 11’s walk on the moon. Their contemporary, Jack Lausma, entertained us with stories and his own mission experiences, including being the only astronaut to land at the alternative White Sands, New Mexico location as lead on Columbia. Kritterman even got to ask the astronaut a question during a brief Q and A at the lunch. His question, “On one of your flights did anything get damaged where everything shut down?” Fortunately, not for Lausma, although he did mention others had not been so lucky.

Following lunch, we took a tour of the various points of interest that NASA utilizes for the space program including the famous launch pad where it dons the largest American flag in the world.

After the tour we had one last opportunity to see Astronaut Jack Lausma again. This time we got to speak with him and get his autograph. He mentioned in the brief conversation he had recently eaten dinner with Jim Lovell (Apollo 13) and his wife. He also encouraged Kristopher to become an astronaut and stressed to me as an educator how important it was to continue to foster a love and pursuit of the study of math and science.

This was an experience the whole family won’t soon forget.

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27Jul / 2014

…Getting There

Every summer we plan a family vacation. Sometimes they are more along the lines of a “stay-cation” and sometimes they are a full on travel-agent like planned event. This year we were met with a dilemma. This July was our 20th anniversary. Eric and I usually take a “big” trip every 5 years for our anniversary. We also wanted to take the kids on an adventure too. Time off and money dictated we couldn’t do both separately. So here we are now. Taking a trip together and celebrating 20 years of marriage.

The plane tickets were bought, lodging reservations made, car rental reserved and Pinterest packing list downloaded.

With 4 carry-on wheeled bags in tow, backpack for each of us and a large suitcase full of vacation necessities we were ready to go.

We flew Southwest, which is always a great experience… especially if you upgrade to the Early Check-in Status!

We left from Dallas-Love Field with a lay over in Houston on our way to Tampa, Florida.

It wasn’t long before our adventures began. While in Houston waiting for our connecting flight Emmarie and I made a stop at the ladies room. After a lengthy wait for Emmarie who did not exit from the stall, I went to check on her. Evidently her stall door stuck and she could not get out. Luckilly she’s 11 and can make her way under a bathroom stall door! To commemorate the event we took a snapshot of her with the stubborn stall door.

The trip continued. One of the sweetest things about my kids is the way they interact and play with one another. Today’s plane ride was no exception. Instead of being consumed with their own devices they opted to play card games to pass the time. Not once was there a disagreement over the rules or accusations of cheating. Made this mama’s heart proud (and secretly happy I packed the deck of cards)!

The adventure continued. Upon completing our paperwork for the rental car we went to retrieve it. Somehow we managed to get lost… IN THE AIRPORT! All was not lost, the car rental agency did not have the Explorer we had upgraded to, so in it’s place the only option was a 2015 BMW X5! Who knew it was Christmas in July!?!?!?

There were a few more mishaps along the way as we drove from Tampa to Titusville. To protect the innocent I will just let the readers know it is a very good thing to have leather seats and ziploc baggies when one is on vacation.

While there were some hiccups, the drive was enjoyable. It was especially enjoyable when an afternoon heating shower treated us to a full rainbow.

By the time we arrived in Titusville it was time for dinner. As I have done on many other vacations I used the Urban Spoon app on my iPhone to help choose a local restaurant. The app led us to Dixie Crossroads Seafood Restaurant. The restaurant is surrounded by water and while you wait to be seated customers can see close to 3 dozen red-eared slider water turtles of various sizes actively swimming, a surprisingly large soft-shell turtle, multitudes of tilapia and one lone bright pure orange koi fish. The meal was decent in taste and price. I do think the Wilson family prefers their seafood with a Cajun flair and that may have skewed our opinion.

Following dinner we drove out to a barrier island, where, to our surprise about a dozen cats were hanging about, perhaps to feast off the fisherman’s throw backs.

It is so good to be on the trip and ready to embrace the adventures of the upcoming week as a family and as a couple. Stay tuned as more posts will follow sharing the much anticipated adventures this week will bring.

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The Wilson Family Stories from Razorback Ranch

Tag Archives: #wilsongetaway

Top 6 Things We Learned on Vacation

It’s a REAL Beach!

20 Years, 2 kids, 2 dogs, 1 cat, 2 snakes and 1 fish

Cheeseburger in Paradise?

Allligators, Mosquitos and Airboats, Oh my!

“One small step for man…”

…Getting There

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