Jared and Lydia's Blog: April 2023

Like roughly half the population, we descended upon sunny Miami, Florida, for our spring break vacation. Luckily (or unluckily, depending on your perspective) we avoided the wild spring breakers. We also lucked out with beautiful weather. Toss in some delicious food and some good ol' family togetherness and it was definitely a success.

We spent the first couple of days in South Beach, taking in perhaps a bit too much sun and enjoying the beautiful beaches. Then we headed to Little Havana for some unique Latin culture, live music, and lots and lots (and lots) of yummy food.

We kinda messed up the flight home and ended up traveling home on Easter Sunday. Jared was able to find a church near the airport (we're not heathens, people!) and were able to attend a lovely service before heading to the airport for our flight.

Sunday afternoon, we made it home safe and sound - a little burned and a few pounds heavier but happy. Now, back to the grind!

Soon after arriving in Miami we headed up to the rooftop pool and restaurant. We managed to snag an awesome cabana where we hung out and chilled while the teens swam and got some sun. Really, we were quite fancy if I must say.

After relaxing a bit, we hit the streets and explored Ocean Drive.

And of course we had to hit the beach.

You'll see a lot of Ellie's back since she didn't like Mom taking photos of her.

But I can attest that's her.

That's my boy, actually posing for a picture. He's a good egg, that Jack.

Aside from a 15-minute rain shower, the weather was beautiful the whole time we were there.

Just hangin'

We walked along Espanola Way before heading back to the hotel for the evening

The next day it was time to hit the beach

Again, please note the kid who will pose for pictures.

After some beach time, we walked along Lincoln Road

Meanwhile, guess who else was in Miami? Ellie's good friend Sasha was staying right near us in South Beach, so they hung out like rockstars.

The next day, we checked out of our hotel in South Beach and headed over to a new hotel in Little Havana. First up? A food tour.

Not sure what the Beatles have to do with Little Havana, but hey, gotta capture that.

Ellie got a little too much sun so she was definitely dehydrated - the coconut water seemed to do the trick.

The tour started on 8th Street - or Calle Ocho.

At the start of our tour there was some cool live music at a place called The Ball & Chain - and a police officer on horseback hanging there to cool down.

Our first stop was empanadas. Honestly, I could live on empanadas, so this was definitely a winner for me.

We also tasted some Cuban-style coffee. Again, thumbs up. (Spoiler alert - all the food was thumbs-up.)

We stopped at a cigar shop and watched as some ladies rolled Cuban-style cigars. Honestly, I think cigars smell horrible, not a fan at all, but it was still neat to see.