Attack of the Red Tide

So - we just returned from a week's stay in Florida. Lavi, Ari and I went down with my parents and my sisters family for a week at Satellite Beach - which is about an hour south of Orlando. The week started off nicely until we figured out why everyone was coughing when they went outside. A 'Red Tide' had infiltrated the exact area (Algae blooms - not science fiction!)- and due to the easterly wind the toxins blew right onto the shore where we were staying. So - we tried to make the best of it - but it was difficult since you couldn't really go outside in our area without hacking up a lung. On beach days - we ended up driving an hour to two hours south to find some fresh air beaches. Lots of driving, espeically for Amanda's family who spent 2 days in Disney and Epcot too. They loved that - so I think it was worth it. While Lavi was with us (since he only spent 4 days) we went to the Kennedy Space Center which was very cool. Prior to the trip - the shuttle was actually supposed to take off on Sunday - but they cancelled it at the last minute due to a fuel engine malfunction. So that was a bummer - we were really looking forward to that event. Ari loved the vacation - he got to spend so much time with his cousins - just playing and giggling and having tons of fun. He is getting to be such a big boy now - talking about everything that he sees. He is singing songs now - knows some of the words - and he seems to be picking up on everything. He loved the beach and pool and is a little adventurous (plus mischevious) little one. Ari also has built up quite an independent streak - and we are learning how to manage with some little statements he is making like 'Stop It' and 'Go Away'. Despite a little attitude he always does it with a big grin.

Overall - it was nice to be with everyone - but wasn't the best holiday cuz we had to stare at the waves through the glass rather than play in them. Next time Ari sees a 'Big Wave Coming' - I hope he can spend more time jumping around in it.

Florida - 2007