After walking through the beautiful plants and trees inside the solarium, we sadly had to go to the airport to put Natalie and Beth on the airplane for home. Why did the fun ever have to end? Well, for Beverly, Joyce, Dad, and me, it didn't end yet. We still had a few days before they had to leave. So we headed for Jacksonville and added a new person into the mix--George! (Plus we spent lots of time over at Jeff and Amy's so that my dad could get to know their kids better. That was lots of fun for both him and their family.)
George has always been the one to think of great ways for having fun. He got some wings and fries, we headed for the picnic tables at Spring Park, and had a wonderful time enjoying the great food, wonderful scenery, and fantastic company!
Although I had to work, for the rest of the day we always tried to do something fun so they could enjoy Florida. They would be going back to snow and cold weather, most likely!
George loves to show everyone where he first lived as a little boy.
Then they moved to this house which his parents had built. It is right on the water, so he used to have gators sunny themselves in his backyard. No kidding!
On the final afternoon, we went to the Landing to have one final birthday dinner with my dad. We really did stretch his birthday out for a week! This should be a birthday he will never forget!
One of the waiters sang a solo "Happy Birthday." It really made Dad feel special!
Now for the birthday cake--red velvet. He is in Florida, and that's about the most Southern cake you can have, right?
Since George didn't get his ice cream at the restaurant, we stopped at a little shop and got some, then went out on the deck to eat it while we watched all the activities on the water and Landing below.
He is trying to tempt me, but I really didn't eat any. Honestly!
The next day, George took them to the airport while I was at school. Good-bye, my dear sisters and Dad. Thank you so much for making memories in a week that I will never forget!
5 comments:
You did such a great job capturing the fun we had together on this trip. I especially liked your cute comments explaining things we saw and did. It was great to see where George grew up and get a feel for why he is such a southern gentleman. Also, this last photo literally looks like a painting behind us but we know it was just that kind of beautiful evening and such a pleasant setting for our last night together in Florida. Thanks again for your wonderful hospitality. We were blessed to have everything go so perfectly, even though I know lots of planning and work went into getting us together. Thanks again.
Laura, you did such a wonderful job documenting our time together. We couldn't have imagined a better trip, could we? Everything worked like clockwork--the weather, getting into the parks and not waiting in any lines, the food, the memories, and especially the company. Thanks again for getting us everywhere we wanted and needed to go! You and George are great! I love all of my sisters and father so much!
What a memorable trip for all of you. You always know how to show your friends and family a good time!! We have our favorite places to take people!! So glad that you could have this experience. FYI - we had a super busy week and at one point Travis said, "Remember the Copelands!" You are an inspiration!!
Way to be on turning down ice cream! That's a hard one to say no to since "there's always room for ice cream." :) All you sisters look great - still young and know how to have fun!
Grandpa sure did have a birthday he will never forget. You sisters need to continue that tradition---what could be better time spent!! Looks perfect!
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