Vaca Part 2: Sand Pebble

I think this year marks the twentieth year I've been coming to the Sand Pebble in Treasure Island, FL for vacation at my grandparents' condo. We had a nice week laying by the pool mostly; Aaron is as "brown as a berry" as my Mammaw used to tell my sister and I when we were little. On Wednesday Aaron and I went to Universal Studios so I could experience the new addition to Harry Potter world. As soon as I got on the first ride (the Forbidden Journey) my face lit up with the goofiest smile. I'm glad we went through the single rider line for that one so Aaron didn't see me be a total dork. As far as the new park goes... The Hogwarts Express was a little underwhelming but we rode it both directions to get the full experience nonetheless.  Here we are getting ready to board the train:

The Escape from Gringotts ride was awesome but ended too soon. Walking through the bank was really neat leading up to it. It looked just like the movie. 

This fire breathing dragon was pretty cool. The heat off of that blast was impressive. I was glad I didn't use much hairspray that day. 

I even rode the Dueling Dragons roller coaster and I DO NOT ride roller coasters. Unfortunately, I think that ride started a downhill spiral of motion sickness for the rest of the day. We went on a slew of other rides after that in the other portions of the park but the Mummy ride (one of the better ones) was it for me. I've never gotten sick on rides before so I was a little disappointed because I was looking forward to more Potter that evening. Actually, I don't know if it was the rides or having to see dozens of people with those ridiculous selfy sticks that made me sick. Anyways... Once I knew I was done for the day, we headed back over to Diagon Alley to drink frozen butter beer and watch the magic fountain squirt unsuspecting people with water. The butterbeer was even better than I expected. I'm looking forward to trying some of the homemade recipes for it that I found on Pinterest. 

I had a great time. I was definitely meant to be a wizard. I'm happy Aaron tolerates my vivid imagination but I'm still holding out hope that I can convert him one day. He did crack a HP joke when we got home yesterday. Proud wife moment! 

This is pretty much what the other days of the week looked like:

On the last day, Aaron and I went to the Don Cesar (where we got married) to have brunch. Ever since I saw the hotel post a photo of their chicken and waffles on Facebook last year, I've been wanting to try them. They did not disappoint. Aaron and I both were pretty much licking our plates. 

It was a great vacation but Aaron and I were definitely ready to get home to our own bed by the end of the week. He starts his new job June 1 and is really looking forward to it. Keep him in your prayers! 

By the way, we are still working through those Love Dare books I mentioned a few posts ago. I would highly recommend them for any married couple at any stage. They really give you perspective and remind you of what's important!