Hello, blog readers! Get ready for a recap of a weekend that was anything but dull. From festive outings to unexpected travel drama, this chapter has it all.
My Thursday started with a delightful surprise: my fever had broken! Based on my new temperature of 97.1, I had apparently been running a low fever for a couple of days, so apologies to anyone I unknowingly shared my germs with. Dee and Ernie arrived in the afternoon, and once I logged off work, the real fun began. Pizza, chatting, and the joy of good company – the perfect recipe for a relaxing evening.
Friday was all about embracing the holiday spirit at Disney Springs. We explored the Christmas Tree Trail, grabbed lunch at T-Rex (because who can resist a prehistoric-themed meal?), and soaked in the festive atmosphere. Later, at my dad’s, we unleashed our competitive spirits with a trivia game called “I Should Have Known That.” The highlight? Ernie’s sudden trivia prowess after a dish of ice cream. It was like Popeye and spinach, but with frozen dairy! He became an unstoppable trivia machine, and naturally, we became the winning team. Ice cream: the ultimate brain fuel.
Saturday, my cousin Michelle joined the party, and we all headed to Epcot. The World Showcase was our playground, complete with a delicious lunch at Chefs De France and the magical Candlelight Processional. Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka from Star Wars, narrated, and she was fantastic! Unfortunately, my dad’s back started acting up, and he’d caught my cold, so we decided to call it a night after the show.
A quick stop in the Mexico Pavilion, a sudden downpour, and thankfully, some pre-emptive red Christmas ponchos ordered off Amazon saved Michelle and me from a complete soaking. I had ordered enough for everyone, but the rest of our party decided they were already wet and thought it was too late to salvage it. Back at my dad’s, Michelle headed home, and Dee and I indulged in a newer holiday classic that I’m particularly fond of, *Prep & Landing*.
Sunday, we decided my dad needed some rest, so Ernie, Dee, and I ventured to ICON Park. We explored the Museum of Illusions, marveled at the marine life in the aquarium, and even sampled some fish and chips from Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant. Before heading home, I gave them a quick tour of downtown Kissimmee. Dee, being the amazing lady she is, whipped up some homemade chicken soup for dinner. We spent the rest of the evening relaxing and chatting.
Monday brought the inevitable goodbyes. Dee and Ernie were off to the airport early, and my own departure was just a few hours later. But the travel gods weren’t quite done with me yet. First, a near-miss car accident on the way to the airport involving a driver who clearly missed the memo on safe driving. Then, a mad dash through the airport, a gate change that required a five-minute cart ride, and a delayed flight. The delay gave me some time to check JetBlue’s pet policy to make sure there would be no snafus when bringing Albus in less than two weeks. And guess what? Just when I thought I was in the clear, I discovered that JetBlue, despite happily taking my money, wouldn’t actually allow Albus to travel in the hold on my upcoming trip to Saba due to current restrictions. Fantastic! To top it all off, the final 20 minutes of the flight into White Plains were some of the most turbulent I’ve ever experienced. Side-to-side turbulence is not my idea of a good time. Let’s just say, I’m hoping I never have to fly into White Plains again.
Thankfully, I made it home safe and sound. I picked up Albus, who was happy and energetic after his boarding experience. That night, I joined the ladies for our monthly get-together. It was great to be back, even if it was a bit colder than when I left. I even made plans for one last send-off with Suzanne and Jackie later in the week.
So, that’s the story of my eventful week. It was a mix of holiday cheer, unexpected challenges, and plenty of good times with friends and family. Stay tuned for more adventures!