Visiting Bubie and PopPop in Florida

The kids were very excited to go to Florida to visit Bubie and PopPop. They are old pros at traveling by plane and knew exactly what to pack in their little bags to keep them occupied in the airport and on the plane. When they saw Bubie and PopPop in the airport, they ran straight into their arms. Big hugs and kisses were given by all. The next morning, the kids were very excited to wake up PopPop and get lots of hugs and cuddles from Bubie.

Our first day in Florida was very cold, so we decided on an indoor activity - a visit to the Lakeland Children's Museum. The kids loved it and Nathan asked to go back each day we were there. They had dress-up clothes, exhibits they could get in and climb on (sherriff car, airplane, space shuttle, firetruck and hot air balloon) and interactive exhibits such as the doctor's office, post office, bank and grocery store. We literally had to drag the kids out of there. We were very fortunate to visit on a day when there were not a lot of people there so the kids had lots of time to play and didn't have to share.

The following day, the kids did a lot of exploring with Bubie and PopPop and took hikes around the campground. We also played outside with Oreo and blew bubbles.

The third day of our trip included a visit to the Florida State Fair.

I was very surprised that Nathan wanted to go on this large slide. He had a smile on this face the entire time. I was even more surprised that after he came down, Sela said she wanted to go. I thought for sure that once she reached the top, she would be scared and cry to come down, but she was brave. She held on tight to PopPop, who was not pleased at having to climb the stairs a second time. Sela was a little unsure during the trip down, but was all smiles when they got to the bottom.

We also had a chance to visit some animals and feed them!

We also visited a dog exhibit and the kids were able to pet the dogs.

Finally, more rides!

And, Nathan took his turn to win a prize and made the bell ring!

On Sunday, we went to Downtown Disney to meet Auntie Mary and Juliet for lunch. The kids enjoyed being together, and as always, it was great to visit with Mary, if only for a short time.

The kids played at the lego store.

Sela wanted her picture taken with Mr. Potato Head

The following day, we went to Animal Kingdom in Disney.

We took the train to the petting zoo.

We went on the safari and saw lots of animals.

Saw the parade.

and enjoyed being together.

It was a wonderful trip, and the kids were sad to have to come home, but they sure enjoyed playing together on the way!

March for the Animals in Memory of Mosley

Nathan, Sela and I are once again preparing to do the March for the Animals to benefit the Maryland SPCA. This year, we are sadly dedicating our walk in memory of Mosley.

Mosley was Aunt Teri's first dog. He came to live with her only a few short years ago from a rescue group. All that was known about him at that time was that he was found scavenging in the woods. His age, health and history were all unknown. Aunt Teri lovingly made him part of her family and nursed him to good health and through some serious health issues. He was her faithful companion. Unfortunately, last week, after a long battle with a serious illness, he was laid to rest. He will always hold a special place in our hearts and we will miss him. In his memory, we are dedicating this years walk to MOSLEY!

The Maryland SPCA is a no kill shelter and works without any government assistance. It is a very clean shelter, the animals are well cared for and there is a kind and knowledgeable staff. It is our pleasure and honor to do this walk to benefit this wonderful facility.

Please take a minute to check out our webpage and consider sponsoring us for this event!

http://www.marchfortheanimals.kintera.org/oxymishu