Detour Before Going Home

Vivian and I took a detour before going back home to Louisiana. We met Derrick in Siesta Key (apparently the #1 beach in America) to cheer him on at his first Tough Mudder. My grandparents volunteered to drive us over. I think they wanted a mini vacay.

 
I have always loved Florida's Gulf Coast. It's so beautiful -- white sandy beaches, crystal blue water, crisp air. I especially like it because the water isn't too salty. As I've mentioned before, that is the one thing I dislike about the beach, getting out of the water and feeling sticky. Of course there is also the sand dollars and starfish found buried just under the sand. Everything about that area I have always found to be very relaxing and beautiful.
Well we all arrived Saturday around lunch. Derrick drove down from Louisiana and we drove over from Miami. It was a nice reunion since we hadn't seen him in a week.

 


Our bugalow was right in the heart of Siesta Key so we were actually able to walk to lots of dining, shops and of course the beach. We walked to the beach with Vivian a few times while we were there. She actually went in the water, all the way! This was a first for her. It was very exciting and she loved it. She kept running in and out.




     

 

Yesterday was the Tough Mudder, a 12 mile obstacle course in the mud of course. Unfortunately we were unable to watch but I got a picture of Derrick before and after. We also found a couple pictures online. Derrick said he enjoyed himself and had fun. He had huge gnarly bruises and a mark from where he was shocked by the hanging electrified wires. Hey, whatever gets you goin' dear.

Before

clean shirt, numbers on his forehead, acting tough

A Death Waiver? Really?

During

getting muddy

After

lost shirt, sweatband on head, numbers?, Tough Mudder

 
It was a quick stay in Siesta Key but very relaxing and enjoyable. And we are finally on our way home with a 14 hour drive and a 16 month old. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa for driving us and staying with us!