Weekend in Universal

This past weekend Jamie and I ventured to Orlando for my first trip to Universal Studios and to visit my aunt, uncle and two younger cousins who are vacationing in Orlando for the week. The weather did not want to cooperate with us on Saturday but we wouldn't let a little rain ruin our fun! Saturday night we met my family at Universal's CityWalk, we had dinner together and then walked and shopped a bit.

Here is a picture of me and my two cousins-Ashley and Jessica at CityWalk

Later that night, Jamie and I went to Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. It was a lot of fun and they had an awesome live band playing all night. One of the night's highlights was when the margarita volcano erupted!

In the morning the six of us headed over to Islands of Adventure. Ashley and Jessi had created a list of all the rides we should go on and we went on them all, at least once! One of the highlights was definitely the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Harry Potter and the forbidden journey. I have never read any of the Harry Potter books but Ashley loves them so visiting that part of the park was a must. I have to say Harry Potter and the forbidden journey may have been the best roller coaster I have been on. It is totally indoors and uses something called robocoaster technology-meaning that the cars are secured by a robotic arm allowing the seats to pivot above the track. While you are on the roller coaster you simultaneously watch a 3D movie and the car moves with all of the effects. It was really scary and surprising in some parts and you were always kept guessing as to what would come next. It really was great! The ride is only about a year old and makes me wonder if it is the future of roller coasters. It will be interesting to see if new roller coasters will be built with the same multi-sensory experiences.

One of our other favorite parts of the park was Seuss Landing-entirely dedicated to the wonderful Dr. Seuss! Here is a picture of the girls, me and Mr. Grinch

After 6 hours in the park everyone was beat and we headed back to Tampa. We had a great weekend with Aunt Ei, Uncle Ed, Ashley and Jessi and we can't wait until next year!!!!

A Day in the Life of Bandit

Bandit has joined Jamie and I here in Tampa. He seems to be liking it a lot, he has always loved the warm weather! Here are a few shots of Bandit enjoying Tampa.

Bandit out fishing with the boys

Bandit dancing for some chicken

Bandit taking a nap with his buddy on the couch

More napping

Grilling

One of mine and Jamie's favorite things to do here in Tampa is grill. It makes making dinner very easy and we enjoy spending time outside. We usually visit our favorite butcher, Land and Sea Market, at least once a week. We were able to pick up these things for dinner for under $16.

Torpedo Shrimp Stuffed wtih Crab

Two Filet Mignons and an Italian Chicken Kabob

Everything on the grill!

New York Trip

Sorry for the long delay in posting, when we returned to Tampa I returned with a double ear infection. Our trip to New York was lots of fun and we enjoyed seeing our family and friends! During our time in New York we attended the wedding of Lisa and Mike at Lombardi's on the Sound. The setting was gorgeous, they had a great day and we had a blast!

The beautiful bride

While we were home we also got a chance to spend some time with my cousins, Farrell and David, who were visiting from Virginia and some friends.

Thanks for reading:)