My friend Barb and her family moved to St. Petersburg, Florida, in September 2000. Work was just not the same without Barb, and I miss Mike and Brianna as well. In December 2000 I traveled to Florida to visit; the Hostetter's were the most gracious hosts.
When I arrived, Barb picked me up at the airport and promptly advised me that I would be going shopping with Mike to pick out Barb's Christmas gift (and I absolutely HATE to shop!). Anyway, it was not that bad. Barb had already told Mike what she wanted, so I just had to help watch Brianna and carry the gifts...no big deal.
Barb lives in this spectacular housing complex. This is a picture of the club house. We went to the pool quite often (but since it was cold, we spent time at the spa).
Since it was December, I was celebrating with the Hostetter's during their first Christmas in Florida. Mike even made a wonderful turkey dinner for us. As I said, they were wonderful hosts.
It was one of the coldest Decembers in Florida history. There were freeze warnings everywhere. Even so, we went to the beach.
We visited the Marriott where Mike works and the mall at the Pier which is nearby. We took Brianna to see Santa for the first time...Brianna was not impressed.
Even though Barb and I tried to reassure Brianna that this fat guy in a red suit was her friend, she remained unimpressed!
Brianna was much happier outside of the mall (and away from Santa). We enjoyed ice cream; all was well with the world.
Being a Mom can be tiring. Brianna is a wonderful little girl and a joy to be around.
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