At the end of July, 2025 we traded our usual routine for a week in sunny Daytona Beach, Florida—a blend of work, play, and reconnection. While I took a couple of days off, most of my time was spent working during the day, with evenings reserved for play and catching up with our dear friends who were spending the month in Florida.

We rented a convertible Mustang, and S was absolutely living his best life — tight space in the back, but wind in his hair. Every drive felt like a mini adventure, whether we were heading to dinner or just cruising along the coast.

Evenings were our fun hours. We’d stroll along the beach, toes in the sand, and waves lapping nearby. S loved spending time with the older kids.

One day was dedicated to Disneyworld. The Florida heat was intense, so we opted for indoor shows—ones we’d usually skip but ended up loving. S, of course, was all about the thrill rides. We braved a few new ones: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain, and Bayou Adventures. Each one surprised us with more twists and turns than expected!

One afternoon, we ventured to the Marine Science Center. The kids were fascinated—touching snakes and examining snake skins.

Afterwards, we climbed the iconic Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse. Hundreds of steps later, we were rewarded with sweeping views and a bit of chaos chasing AC through the museum exhibits.

Another highlight was a full day at the Kennedy Space Center. We were lucky enough to witness a rocket launch—an awe-inspiring moment that made the whole trip feel cosmic. The center itself was packed with exhibits, simulators, and stories that sparked curiosity in all of us.

One evening, we switched gears for some lighthearted fun: mini golf followed by feeding alligators. Yes, actual gators! It was quirky, a little wild, and totally memorable.

While I worked, S & E made the most of their days—exploring local museums, splashing through water parks, and soaking up every ounce of Florida sunshine.