Spring Break 2013

A large brush fire north of Treasure Cay

It's hard to believe that another year has gone by, but at least that means another family trip to the Bahamas!  This year was our longest stay yet at 9 nights.  We were able to put or "held monies" from last years unsuccessful Memorial Day trip towards this stay so at least half of our trip was already paid for well in advance.  We stayed at the Bahama Beach Club again, but this time rented directly from the club.

The plan was to head down Saturday morning, but the weather was not looking too cooperative.  It was forcasted to be overnight fog giving way to numerous thunderstorms around 8 am.  Fortunately all the ship-work was done by Friday noon and the condo was available so we picked up the girls a little early from school and we were in the air and southbound at 2:00 pm.  It was a very smooth and uneventful flight.  Just north of the Kennedy Space Center we were cleared direct to Freeport which took us right over the runway and Vehicle Assemble Building.  The early turnout also gave us some favorable tailwinds.  In less than 2 1/2 hours we were on the ground in Treasure Cay.

This year we were again joined by family and friends.  We were really excited to have our family friend Ray, from Northern Ireland, with us.  Ray is great fun to have around.  Both my girls enjoy playing with him and he's also my favorite dive buddy!

The beauty of the Bahamas never disappoints, but this year's stay was mostly marked by cold and wind.  Everyone was bundled up in coats and sweatshirts.  Due to the conditions we were unable to rent a boat this year, but everyone enjoyed the heated pools when they weren't strolling the beach.  Ray and I were lucky enough to get two days of diving in as well.  By the end of our stay the weather was a little more normal we enjoyed some fabulous time on the beach and in the water.

Our family and friends were staying a few days more than us so when we left Easter Sunday we made two nice, low passes down the beach to "wave" goodbye.  The flights home went well.  We cleared Customs in Ft Pierce without issue and opted to make it a quick turn to just get home.  North of Daytona we started or descent for home.  As soon as we got below the cloud layer it got really bumpy.  We slowed to minimize the bumps.  As much as that helps the ride, it makes you ride in it longer!  Abby almost got sick, but held it together and we safely made it home in one piece and with a few treasures too!

Here is a slideshow/video of more pictures from our vacation: