We recently had a visit from both of our sons and our daughter-in-law. A slightly early Christmas gathering on the warm sunny island. Unfortunately, our daughter could not make this trip due to some college coursework she was completing. It was great to have them here for a week to see the island sites, take a few hikes, eat many meals, have a few drinks, and walk the beach admiring the many beautiful sunsets.
Christmas on the Island
Our kids rented a house on the south end of the island, a block from the main drag on Bridge Street. Walking distance to everything on this end. Pat and I were just over the bridge at the RV park.
After retrieving them from the airport we stopped off at John and Cindy’s (Pat’s brother) for some holiday cheer and Cindy’s great chili! It was fun to catch up on all their travels and winter plans.
The photos below are from the week here at AMI. Comments on some of the photos. Our sons swam in the gulf on one warm day although the water was cool. It reminded me of all those times long ago that we would have a family trip to Florida over Christmas to see grandma and grampa. The boys would love to play in the ocean surf over at Cocoa Beach. Sometimes the rough surf would tumble them about, but soon they would pop up, spit out the saltwater and then dive back in.
Cindy and John at their home. Delicious chili! Thanks Cindy Lou!
Then to check in. They had the 2nd floor of the home which gave them access to a great 3rd floor deck with a wonderful view of the area and sunsets.
Pat and Ross walking back from the City Pier 
Randy, Pat and Ross 
Jenn and Bryan at sunset 
Lunch at Starfish – my favorite 
Hiking at Robinson Preserve 
Me, Pat, Jenn, and the boys lagging behind. Come on guys 
Ross and Bryan at an evening social hour on the north end 
Our gang at the iconic RodnReel 
A Mexican dinner after many seafood meals. Gotta mix it up some 
And a sunset drink at the Beachhouse 
Ross and John, while John points at the sunset 
The whole group 
Bridge st very nicely decorated 
Bryan catches frisbee – maybe… 
Ross throws a frisbee 
Who will be the first to dive in? 
The Grinch is on the right! 
Oysters Rock on the grill
It was very nice to have the family here for the week. Although, I’m a bit worn out from the everyday activities. We ate at many of the fine dining establishments on the isle. Let’s see if I can remember a few. Ginny and Janes, Anna Maria Oyster Bar, La Creperie, Wicked Cantina, The Beach House, and Motorworks brewery. Probably missed a couple.
Audrey’s Engaged
Our daughter back in Virginia shared this great news that she and Brandon are now engaged and planning a June 1st wedding. That makes us very happy knowing that she is also happy. More to come on this news.
Take care and God Bless. Merry Christmas all!!!
Sounds like an exciting December for sure. Congratulations on the engagement.
Thanks!
Great visit and recap … Merry Christmas to you both!
Happy New Year!