Yogi Needs Bootcamp

Olivia insisted upon taking our photo with Yogi.  Her claim to photography fame is taking hundreds of photos in hopes of getting "the one".  The outtakes made me giggle, and I couldn't bring myself to delete all of them.  

Family Getaway in Nashville

Months ago, we planned a weekend trip to Nashville to celebrate my mom's retirement.  We rented a cabin and RV space at the Jellystone Park.  Unfortunately, my dad was still too weak to make the trip.  Nevertheless, we had a wonderful time chilling as a family.  

We shopped at the monthly Nashville flea market, rode go karts, explored the park, shopped at the mall, and ate at a few unique restaurants.  The realization that we have entered a difficult traveling season with Jax became very clear.  He is too big for a pack and play, but he is still too little to sleep independently in a big boy bed.  So...he ended up sleeping with us.  I love my kiddos like crazy, but I am not interested in co-sleeping.  

Memorable moments to remember:

-One night, we heard the pitter-patter of little feet.  I woke up to discover Jaxson standing in our room holding his pillow and blankets while smiling ear to ear.

-Jaxson started calling me "Michelle".

-Scott used an app on his phone to locate a few of the local diners and dives.  Let's just say...we didn't eat at either place.

-Watching Andrew's love and talent for racing...he really has a gift.  Really.

-Andrew and Olivia were so courteous, thankful, understanding, and helpful.  Their actions and attitudes made me incredibly proud.

President's Club 2015 in Los Cabos, Mexico

Scott and I had the amazing opportunity to spend an all expense paid 4 days and 3 nights in Los Cabos, Mexico.  The resort and weather were absolutely beautiful.  I envisioned days spent soaking up the sun, reading a book, and exploring with My Sweet Scotty.  Upon arrival at the all inclusive resort, I was handed the weekend's agenda which forced me to be incredibly social.  When all was said and done, I was charming and had the most lovely time.

Thursday evening, P1 hosted an all white party at a lovely seaford restaurant with a live band, glass blower, and fireworks over the ocean.  

Friday morning was spent deep sea fishing in hopes of catching a prize-winning Marlin.  Six hours after leaving the marina, we returned to shore having caught ONE non-Marlin fish.  However, I did manage to catch my fair share of ZZZ's.

Friday evening was the black tie banquet.  Authentic Mexican dancers performed and then led us into the extravagant banquet room.  We returned to our room that night to find a beautiful photo of us that was taken the night before and a lovely book about Los Cabos.

Saturday morning, we boarded a catamaran and toured the open seas for several hours.  The boat stopped for 40 minutes giving an opportunity to snorkel.  We were able to observe sea lions in their natural habitat.  Scott even saw a whale.  We were then given a chance to visit the stores and shops along the marina.  Unfortunately, we didn't bring a single dime, and Scott was forced to ask his boss for a loan. Dinner was spent networking with the national account managers who were present.  The night ended with a dessert party and video recapping the weekend.  Waiting in our room was a photo taken of Scott at the awards' ceremony and a plate of the most delicious chocolate covered strawberries.

I am always frustrated with myself when I return home and upload the small number of photos that I remembered to take.  With that said, I really enjoyed experiencing this environment without the burden of carrying my camera to each and every event.  Next year...I will be the crazy wife who takes photos of EVERYTHING!  *wink

In celebration of our 15th anniversary, Scott and I flew to Orlando to catch a cruise ship, The Monarch of the Seas, for a short cruise to the Bahamas.

We made a short stop at Coca Beach where we walked the pier, watched the young and old surf, and sampled an authentic beach hot dog.

We then traveled to Port Canaveral where this beauty was waiting our arrival.

We got settled just in time for dinner.  We quickly realized that we were cruising with 200+ Red Hat Ladies from the state of Georgia.  I found myself having a strong desire to photograph their creative, uniquely constructed hats and hair accessories.  They were a hoot!  I especially enjoyed watching them parade to their pajama party and their swimsuit through the ages event.  They even made Sweet Scotty blush a time or two.

Our room attendant was absolutely adorable.  I am certain that his English was limited to only a few phrases.  Needless to say, we had the same conversation multiple times a day.  He did craft this towel bunny especially for me. 

We spent hours like this...

We were encouraged to explore the island of Nassau.  Scott and I took a bus tour of the city, and we explored under the ocean in a submarine type boat.  We visited multiple coral reefs where we spotted sea turtles and other fish.  Of course, we visited the local straw market where we wheeled and dealed with the locals.

These 2 houses belong to Oprah.

We also spent a day on Royal Caribbean's private island, Coca Cay.  We went on a kayak excursion, and Scott spent hours snorkeling.  We also napped in a hammock while enjoying the ocean breeze.  It was the perfect day with the exception of missing our kiddos horribly.

That evening we skipped dinner in order to experience a beautiful sunset.

It was a great decision!