Christmas in July

Ty and I took an impromptu weekend trip to Florida at the end of July. By any logical estimation, it didn't make sense. I flew in on a Thursday evening after work, and Ty came late Friday after work. We flew home together Sunday. Sure, two days doesn't seem like much. But these two days were packed with people we love! Worth every effort and every penny!

Friday morning, my sister (who just happened to be in town from overseas), my parents, my cousin, and the niece and nephew went canoeing at Wekiva Springs. It's a family favorite!

First time for the Littles! Isaac loved fishing off the side of the boat. Alice just silently observed everything with wide eyes!

At the end of our trip, just as we were nearing the shore, a huge Florida rainstorm blew in -- the kind that you can barely see through! Our picnic plans were foiled, but we couldn't stop smiling. When was the last time I played in the rain? The Littles were great sports!

My newest niece just happened to be born a week prior, so I got my newborn fix!

Sweet Annie Jean!

Impromptu trips don't change the fact that you're marathon training. I had a 12-mile taper run to fit in, and Erin and Scout were sweet enough to accompany me for 6 of those miles! I got lost (in a circle, somehow) in Oviedo, caught in another rainstorm, and enjoyed running in the cool weather. Did I just  describe Florida summer as "cool?" It was overcast, rainy, and breezy. Can't remember the last time I've had that kind of running weather in Texas.

Saturday was Welsh family day, and we all hung out at the newlywed's place and celebrated Glenna's birthday. We had a blast just being in one another's company. I won the daughter-and-sister-in-law-of-the-year-award by falling asleep on the couch while the ladies prepared dinner. Oops. Four hours of sleep + twelve miles of running = afternoon crash. Thankfully, they love me regardless. :)

Sunday was another packed day, as I accompanied a close friend for special music at church. She is on her way to India, and it just so happened to be her last Sunday before her departure. We've collaborated a lot in the past, so this was a special treat! I even managed to fit in breakfast with my small group girlies between rehearsal and church!

Speaking of special treats, my bestie (who lives in the Moscow of the US) just happened to be in town with her hubby. I truly thought I wouldn't get to see her this summer, so this bonus time was a blessing!

My parents' house was packed with good food and the best folks around! We couldn't have asked for more!

It seriously felt like Christmas -- except better, because we didn't get that Christmas evening let-down. We flew home to Dallas Sunday evening on cloud nine! Our souls were refreshed by sweet time with the people we love the most.