Well, I wanted to start my new blog with some photos I took from my Florida vacation few weeks ago. It was a last minute decision to go and I’m really glad I did. My long time girlfriend, Tiffany and her parents were in Deerfield, Florida for her son’s soccer team, Redlands. They were invited to AYSO Nationals and I thought it would be a great opportunity to spend some quality time with her family while supporting Jacob’s team at the same time. What I oversaw and did not anticipate was Florida’s ruthless heat and humidity that almost drove all of us crazy, literally (we’re all from California so we are spoiled, yes, I know!), but somehow we survived and made the most of it while we were there.

We got to do some fun stuff like visit Billie Swamp Safari with most of the kids from Jacob’s team, along with their parents. We got to go on twenty minute airboat ride, one-hour swap buggy eco-tour and at the end of our journey, we even got to see a snake show. I think most of the kids (and parents too) were pretty much wiped out by the end of the day, but we sure did have a blast!

This trip was definitely one I would NOT forget because not only did I get to spend some quality time with one of my best friend, I got to see her family and meet all the families who were there to support and encourage their kids. I saw their unconditional love pouring out in to the field. I remember how awful it was for us to endure that kind of weather, but think about all the kids playing?! Why didn’t they pick a place like… Hawaii?! Nevertheless, we were all so proud of these kids. They never complained. And they played hard, every game. No doubt. Jacob even scored few goals which was so exciting at the time. I heard from his mama how good he was, but seeing him score few times during our trip was very satisfying.

This trip definitely opened my eyes to feel and see what it would be like to be a parent someday (we are currently trying to have our first). I can only hope, one day, I would be as proud as I was of Jacob and his team that week. GO REDLANDS!!!!!!!!!