Memorial Weekend in Miami, May 2012.

Memorial weekend couldn't come soon enough. One of my best friends in the entire world, Alexandra Eidelwein, MD, moved to Miami in December 2011...SAD DAY with lots of tears shed. We worked together for a total of 6 years at Children's (4 as an RN, 2 and an NP). I bought my SOLO ticket in early March, and flew Allegiant ALL BY MYSELF to visit her. Now, for some of you who have flown your entire life, that may not be a big deal, but for this girl, who just began her flying debut in April 2010, it was a VERY big deal. Despite the thousands of miles we have flown in the last year to Thailand and Ukraine, plus other national flights, it's a little more intimidating when you are by yourself.

Nevertheless, I made it aboard, and settled into my window seat. By the way, I NEVER sit anywhere else. I MUST be able to see the view and the clouds (if present).

I landed safe and sound in Fort Lauderdale, found the passenger pick-up row, where even though it was 1130pm, it was jam packed with cars, all LAYING on their horns.....which can be quite annoying. Alex picked me up, and we drove around downtown Miami, then to her new AWESOME home in Aventura.

Since I flew down on a Thursday, Alex had to work the next morning, and Gabby went to school, so I found myself up bright and early for a morning walk on Country Club Drive . It's a 3-mile loop around the gorgeous community of Aventura.

Then, I found myself migrating to the pool! How could I not. Miami weather is absolutely perfect for early morning sunning. And who doesn't love an infinity pool!!

Aventura is beautiful during the day, but also at night. Ahhhh!!

Time to hit the beach! Miami beaches....lots to see, too much of a few things, but the blue and deeper blue waters definitely take you to a happy place. And if that doesn't....

.....the food will for sure. Grilled Mahi Mahi, steamed vegetables, rice and salsa. Oh man, I 've never had such an incredible beach lunch!! If you know how much I love to eat, especially healthy food, then you know how much I enjoyed this delicious meal =)

Plus, I just had the best time in the world with my incredible friend. I love her and miss her so much. 

You can't go to Miami without a fun-sun, large-brim, straw hat!! Plus, it becomes miserably humid and hot, so this hair gets a little....no ALOT....out of control. It's always better to protect your skin too, especially your face.

 One great thing about this trip, everything in Aventura is super super expensive, and ritzy, and over-the-top nice. So, I spent NO money at the malls, which my husband was so proud of me for =) Where's White House Black Market when you need it!

 The malls are gorgeous though! Oh, and you don't go out until like 9pm to dinner (which was my 4th meal, or for those of you that know me well, my 8th meal). Yes, we literally sat down to order dinner at Cheesecake Factory at 940pm! Oh, but even that late, it was delicious!! Then we were on a sugar high until at least 2 in the morning. So much fun!!

Definitely need more pool time before coming home.

Once again, I just couldn't have enough time with her. I wanted to pack her in my suitcase, and bring her back to Knoxville. That would certainly be a challenge however, especially after seeing how great Aventura is, and how perfect it is for her. Love and miss you Alex!! I'm already planning my next trip down very soon.... I'll let you know when!

Oh, and since it was night time when I flew down, the pictures of the coast were kind of too dark to see anything. But, as I mentioned earlier, I ALWAYS sit by the window, so I can get these incredible views of God's most beautiful creation.

The Atlantic Coastline is one of the better sights from high above.....

....but will always be superseded by Heavens Magnificent clouds. They will always be my favorite.