If you read my previous post, you would have read about our tumultuous flight home from Florida, but today I'd like to share the happier bits about our trip.

We stayed at the Hilton Embassy Suites in one of their 2 room corner suites, which was perfect for traveling with the baby. She could sleep in the bedroom while we still had our own space to hang out without disrupting her.


We had some free time to explore as a family, so one day we went to Riviera Beach where Maya had her first experience in the ocean! She loved it, but it was so hot outside that the water wasn't refreshing, so we didn't stay very long. One evening we walked down Worth Avenue, a popular high end shopping street and down to the beach. Again, it was so hot that we didn't last too long outside, so we made our way to dinner from there.

We decided to make last minute plans for Maya and I to meet my husband in West Palm Beach, Florida, as he was there for 2.5 weeks for work. It was a whirlwind trying to get both of our passports within 6 days of our planned departure date, but we did it!
I was feeling pretty confident about everything up until the moment that my sister-in-law dropped us off and waved one last goodbye. I was suddenly on my own and felt a wave of emotions. I took a moment to compose myself, and we headed through customs. Thankfully, Pearson Airport (Toronto) has special check-in lines and U.S. customs for those traveling with small children, which made it much easier when traveling as a single parent. The staff was very patient as I nervously loaded my things onto the security belt, took off my shoes, and all while balancing a curious baby who was eating a sticker that she pulled off the check-in tag from her stroller.

I was glad I kept my packing to a minimum, because it made things a lot easier making my way through the airport. I brought one bag to check, my purse and a diaper bag. I could bring the stroller through security and all the way up the door of the plane, which was so helpful, so that I didn't have to carry everything on my own.

We booked our seats ahead of time and spent the extra money on priority seating for parents with children. I would highly recommend this for anyone traveling with kids as it gives you much more space to move around, and some airlines provide a bassinet for your baby to sleep. The priority boarding was great as it gave me time to settle in, and a flight attendant went over the safety and emergency procedures with me one-on-one since it was my first time flying with a baby.

The flight went really well and Maya did great! Even the other passengers around us commented on how well she did. I was relieved that we made it safely and we were able to spend some time with my husband.

As the days passed, the forecast for Hurricane Irma became more intense and we were worried about getting out on time before it Florida. Our flights were booked for Thursday evening, which they said would still be safe to leave, and my husband was able to leave early and get a flight out the same night from Miami. We figured we would be ok, but as the storm was approaching we were getting nervous that our flights might get cancelled. As we were checking in we were told that my flight was delayed 1.5 hours, but since my husband had to leave to catch his flight in Miami, we didn't have any other choice but to wait around at the airport. Time passed and I was getting eager to get home, and then an announcement was made that there was another delay, and our 7pm flight that was pushed to 9:30pm, would now not be leaving until 12:00am. I was nearly in tears when I walked up to the gate attendant to get some understanding as to why our flight kept getting delayed. Of course I knew there was nothing she could do to make the flight leave on time, but I was so frustrated and just wanted my baby to get some proper rest without getting woken up by the noise of a very busy terminal! I forgot to mention that the waiting area was packed with crying children, pets (large and small) barking at each other, and many tired and frustrated people trying to escape the Hurricane. I swear half of Ft. Lauderdale was waiting in that terminal!
The flight was delayed again until 1:00am, but I was still hopeful that we would make it out of Florida before the storm. Thankfully we did, but it was definitely a nerve wracking wait and not something I wish on anyone traveling alone with a baby.

What to pack for 1 week in England

• You'll want a light jacket, and a heavier one for those colder days.
•  Sweaters are the key to keeping warm on those cold damp days that you are walking around visiting the sights. I would suggest to bring sweaters that you can layer so that you get the most use out of them.
• Depending on your itinerary, you'll want at least one nice blouse that you can wear out, and some more casual tees for daytime. 
• Cardigans are great for layering and if you get a day without rain you can venture out without a coat! 
• Footwear can be tricky because you don't want to bring anything too bulky, but keep in mind you will need something comfortable, warm, and practical for the weather.
• Pack neutral bottoms such as leggings and jeans to be able to work with any outfit. And throw in something different like a dress or skirt if you want to dress things up a little.

Other:
Tights, Mittens (hat optional), and Umbrella.
A couple of scarves to keep warm and change up your look.




Want to read more about England, UK? Check out this post.

Babymoon Destinations in December

Your second trimester is the best time to take some time away with your partner before it's time to push out that baby! Since we are planning a trip for next month (December), I thought I'd share some locations that are perfect for a winter babymoon. As a precaution, we do want to steer clear of locations that may still be affected by the Zika virus - just to be on the safe side.

Nassau, Bahamas
The Bahamas have more than 700 islands and cays, and average water temps of 80 degrees year-round! Although you’ll have to skip diving in the 2,400 coral reefs, you can snorkel, go boating, sailing or kayaking in the turquoise shallows and discover the Bahamian marine life. As a babymoon destination, the Bahamas offer a range of resorts, from the most laid back barefoot style to the highest of plush luxury, and everything in between.


New York City, New York
When you’re finished with your retail therapy, check out a Broadway show or head over to the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty. It’s no wonder they call it the city that never sleeps (but make sure you get some rest!).


Maui, Hawaii
If you’re up for a little exercise (always good for the baby), Maui has some great options: the warm, calm waters of Kapalua Beach (perfect for kayaking) and easy to moderate walking trails in Haleakala National Park. It is also home to the world’s largest dormant volcano and some pretty stunning views!


Charleston, South Carolina
In addition to being the friendliest city in the U.S., Charleston also makes for a killer weekend getaway these days, whether you like to shop (check out the boutiques on King Street), go on a food crawl (Husk, Fig, Xiao Bao Biscuit), or do a leisurely mansion tour of Battery Park. Charleston also affords plenty in the way of R&R.


Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island, located just off the coast of northeast Florida, is easy to get to and offers 13 miles of unspoiled beaches and a 50-block historic downtown packed with bistros and cafes. Amelia Island is a Northern Florida getaway with active mosquito prevention in place, with pristine waters and lots of wildlife. You’ll also find plenty of old-fashioned Southern hospitality throughout – just what a mom-to-be really needs. 


Montreal
With cultural attractions like the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and beautiful 18th- and 19th-century buildings, tons of restaurants and cafes for culinary adventures, and festivals year-round, there’s so much to do and see. (but don't forget to relax!)

Over the past couple of years we have enjoyed spending time in Niagara-on-the-Lake, so I thought I'd share a few things to do if you are planning a trip in the future. I would suggest visiting in the Spring and Fall, as they are the most scenic and also gives you lots of options for things to do.

Visit a Winery
Of course visiting a winery is a must! There are so many to choose from, and they all vary in style and taste. The best way to see them is on a bus or bike tour to enjoy the scenery and meet new friends along the way.

This particular day we visited Pillitteri Estates Winery.


Downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake
NOTL is a quaint little town with shops, historical buildings, and lots of delicious restaurants.
 

Niagara Parkway path
There are lots of paths to choose from through town, but my favourite is running or biking down the Niagara Parkway path that runs the whole length of the Niagara River.
 

Smuggler's Cove Boat Club
Smuggler's Cove is a tiny little boat club that you can find "off the beaten path" - literally. There's a small dirt road that leads down, or you can take the stairs to this peaceful spot on the Niagara river.