Jon, Phyllis, and Vero Beach, Florida

Long weekend trips are the best. 

Especially when your hosts know how to pack in the fun. 

Phyllis and Jon, two of my parents' very close friends from Germany, let me come visit and stay with them from Friday (way early Saturday morning) through Monday afternoon.

Saturday: 

Around 1am my plane landed in the warm, and not so sunny, lands of Florida. 

Jon, Phyllis, and I met up at the airport and headed on our way from Orlando back to their home in Vero Beach. 

Of course, a quick stop at the beach to look for nesting turtles was a must. 

We found a nest! 

Then it was off to bed for two and a half hours of shut eye! 

When we woke it was off to the Indian River for fishing, exploring, lunch at Suzi's Tiki Bar, and swimming in the ocean! 

As soon as we got back home and cleaned up the boat it was time to ride! 

Horseback riding was on my list and I was excitedly able to check it off! 

After our beautiful ride, all three of us drove back to Vero and grabbed groceries for a delicious dinner, thanks to Chef Jon! 

After a refreshing post dinner dip in the pool it was off to bed to get ready for another full day. 

Sunday: 

Rising bright and early, we headed back to Fort Pierce for Deep Sea Fishing on Lady Stuart! 

I had such a fun day casting out and seeing every one's catch.

And checking off yet another bucket list item! 

With only a small bout of sea sickness added on the side.  

After getting our fish filleted and cleaned we ate our lunch and head on to our next activity! 

Jon suggested we check out the gators at a local conservation area! 

We hopped onto a stadium style air boat and were on our way out into the natural habitat of so many neat animals and species! 

After our ride we headed home for dinner and some company from their friend, Liz. 

Jon cooked our catch from earlier in the day to perfection and Phyllis and I made a fresh fruit salad.

After dinner we shared some wines and had a mini red wine tasting! 

Which, thanks to Phyllis, I have discovered one that I actually like! 

Check, another item crossed off my list! 

After a great late night chat with Phyllis we headed to bed to get rested up for our last day. 

Monday: 

The last day of the trip is never a fun one, but Phyllis and I had a girl's day and made it the best even with my upcoming departure. 

We walked down Ocean Boulevard and checked out a bunch of cute boutiques. 

After spending a little time, and money, we headed off to lunch at Waldo's! 

We snacked on the dolphin fingers: think Mahi-mahi fish sticks. And shared the fresh fish basket. 

After feeling way too full we headed to the beach for some much needed ocean time. 

It was the perfect day for swimming and enjoying the sand. 

After the beach we headed home and I packed up my bags, not quite ready to leave such wonderful company. 

We arrived back to the airport at 5pm and hugged and waved my newest friends goodbye; they're no longer just my parent's friends now! 

So many thanks go out to Phyllis and Jon for treating me to such an incredible adventure and being so extremely kind to me. You two are amazing people and your love for each other is admirable. I hope to someday find a love like the one you share.