Oh, Ft. Myers, you beautiful little piece of paradise!
My cousin Angie and I had travel vouchers burning holes in our pockets (thank you, Frontier!) so obviously, we had to book a getaway. From April 4 to 7, 2025, we zipped off to visit one of our favorite humans on this earth, Aunt Chriss. Bonus: we also got to spend time with our awesome cousin Rhonda! Family reunion? Check. Shenanigans? Double check.
Lanai Life and Poolside Vibes
We settled right into Florida life. Mornings were spent having breakfast on Aunt Chriss’s lanai like the queens we are. I even whipped up my famous high-protein egg bites and everyone gobbled them up like I was the next Food Network star (even though my kids still think I should be on Worst Cooks in America). Honestly, feel free to submit my name. I will even bring my egg bites to the audition. You're welcome, America.
After breakfast, we hit the community pool for some exercise and relaxation. Swimming and sunbathing, the ultimate multitasking.
PSA: If you are visiting family in Florida, ALWAYS pack a swimsuit. Even if you think you will not need it, you will.
Gluten-Free Gourmet (Yes, Really)
If you are like me and living that gluten-free life (by choice, by allergy, or by digestive rebellion), listen up. Artisan Eatery in Fort Myers is your place.
I had what is, no joke, the BEST burger I have ever eaten. Juicy, flavorful, and served without bread by request. And the pickle? Basically a mini cucumber, fresh as can be. Their ketchup? Some kind of tomato magic potion served in a little ramekin. I didn't care if it was socially acceptable, I was seriously tempted to just drink it straight out of that ramekin.
I cannot wait to bring Cameron back here because he is a total ketchup connoisseur. Plus, I am still on a mission to get him to love Florida as much as I do. Pretty sure one taste of that ketchup and he will be shopping for beach houses.
Pro Tip: Always ask for gluten-free modifications at restaurants. You might discover the best versions of food you have ever had.
Shoe Missions and Sorcery Potions
Naturally, no girls' trip is complete without a little retail therapy. Angie needed new shoes (girl math, am I right?) so we made a pit stop at Rack Room Shoes, where she scored the cutest Skechers sandals.
And me?
I bought nothing.
Yes, you read that right. Probably because I only had a "personal item" bag and not one molecule more of space. Sad but true.
We also hit up Publix (because Florida) for snacks, beverages, and ingredients for Angie's magic potion.
Apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey, and ginger blended together and allegedly deliver flat stomachs and eternal youth. We are all doing it for 30 days, so if you see me looking snatched this summer, now you know why.
Anyone else tried this elixir of life? Tell me your results!
Sunset Dinners and Coconut Dreams
One night, we took a recommendation from Angie's friend and headed to Bimini Bait Shack, a place I will now recommend to everyone with a pulse.
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Live band? ☑
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Amazing food? ☑☑
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Desserts that make you weep with joy? ☑☑☑
We shared the Gilligan’s Coconut Cream Pie and I kid you not, it was divine. (I just ate the cream part to stay gluten-free and it was so worth it.)
Pro Tip:
If you want an outdoor table to watch the sunset, arrive early and get on the list. It is worth it. Inside seating had little to no wait, so do not panic if you are running a little behind.
Treasure Hunting at Fleamasters
After squeezing every drop out of our trip so far, it was time for a little treasure hunt. We spent an afternoon at Fleamasters Fleamarket, where dreams (and credit card swipes) come true.
I finally found the hip purse I have been hunting for, the kind that clips onto your belt loops. Perfect for riding my motorcycle. Angie found adorable cowboy hats and souvenirs for her grandbabies. Oh, and I scored two stunning peach-colored bracelets, my favorite color!
Reunion + New Family Members Unlocked
This trip came with a little plot twist. Angie got to meet her stepbrother Jason and his son for the very first time. Is this not giving major Hallmark movie energy? Spoiler alert: they are amazing, and we all hit it off like we had been causing trouble together for years. We are already talking about a family cruise. You know I am a sucker for a good cruise. Just hand me a pina colada and point me toward the pool deck.
Sports Bars and Family Bonds
After the Fleamarket, we were starving (shopping burns calories, fight me) and headed to Sidelines Sports Bar to meet up with Jason and his son.
The potato skins were absolute perfection, and the Margarita was not too shabby either.
The best part?
Hitting it off with new family members like we had known each other forever.
A Little Furniture Rearranging (Because Why Not)
On our last night, Aunt Chriss put us to work rearranging her living room and den. Honestly, nothing feels better than helping out someone you love. Plus, now we know she is all set up and comfy when we can’t be there in person.
(Side note: Aunt Chriss could teach a masterclass in hospitality and heart. She even leaves a mint on the pillow and a bottle of water by the bed. It honestly feels like we are staying at a five-star resort.)
Until Next Time
Leaving is always the worst part. Saying goodbye to Aunt Chriss and Rhonda was tough, but “until next time” sounds a lot better, don’t you think?
We had so many laughs, a few tears (happy and bittersweet), and more memories packed into a few day than most people make in a month. Trips like this are good for the soul.
Already counting down the days until the next adventure!
Let's Hear It!
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Have you ever had a trip where you met new family members for the first time?
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What is your go-to drink or dish when you travel?
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Have you ever tried the Apple Cider Vinegar "potion"? Be honest, miracle cure or just really weird lemonade?
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