Florida 2

The next part of our trip was visiting the Stephanis.  The drive from Orlando to Panama City Beach was what we expected Florida to look like, except we didn't expect the pine trees.  Each little town along the way was covered with trees and foliage.  Even a broken down car or old trailer house looked quaint.  I was really hoping to see an alligator, since there were signs to warn about them, but no.  We stopped at a watermelon stand and tried boiled peanuts.  We weren't fond of the peanuts especially on a hot summer day. The most fun part was to feel the southern hospitality.  We stopped at a gas station to ask directions to Walmart.  The cashier gave directions and actually called me Ma'am 4 times.  Then the guy behind us gave better directions.  Then while we were driving a car honked and rolled down their window to tell us to turn here for Walmart.  I loved it.  We arrived at Carrie's and it was nice to see Gabe after all of his treatment.  He had a lot more energy than I expected.  He's really a fun dad.  It was so great to be with the kids. They are very creative and imaginative.  Carrie of course is a ball of fire and can do anything.  I'm just so mpressed with how well they are doing for such an ordeal. 

 I loved going to church with them so we could see how their life is and meet some of their friends.  Carrie surprised me with teaching the Relief Society lesson on marriage and doing a fantastic job. 

 The next day, Gabe actually had enough energy to take us surfing.  Carrie said that he doesn't play sick, so if he can he will and if he can't he won't.

 Gabe pushed us off and I actually got up and rode a wave in.  As you can see they are small, but hey a wave is a wave. 

 There's Jeff and Gabe in the background

 Sky, just hangin' out.

 Paige making us look bad.

 

Carrie showing us how it is done.

 After a few hours a crazy storm came and we had to run every one and every thing to the car.  The umbrella was being blown away.  The beach was clear in 5 minutes.  Then it was just a lot of rain.  Since Carrie's house is .8 miles from the beach and no one was out, we walked home in the rain, which was my favorite thing we did on this whole trip.  It was like a warm shower.