Crystal River, Florida 2016

This Crystal River trip has quickly become a yearly tradition. We love going out on a cold winter morning and renting a pontoon boat to search for Manatees. Ever year we bring a new group of people and it is always a blast. This year our niece and nephews came along for the ride and it was extra special to see their enjoyment. We bundle up on the boat with Hot Coco and warm blankets. Then jump in the 72 degree water to swim with these water cows. 

See ya again next year!

Past Crystal River Trips: 2014, 2015

New Years Eve Bonfire 2015

One of my favorite traditions over the holiday season is the New Year's Bonfire at the Russ house. I was more adamant about getting a picture of Lizzy in front of the roaring flames than I was in front of the Christmas tree. 

New Year's; 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

A Few Pictures That Sum Up Christmas 2014

We had been looking forward to Christmas for what felt like forever! Not only was it going to be an end of another semester, but last Christmas, we did not get to participate in all the fun traditions. Although spending Christmas in Istanbul was one to remember, we missed all the seasonal food, and family togetherness. Plus this year would be Lizzy's first Christmas, so that made it extra special. I had almost three weeks off for Christmas Break and filled every bit with the seasons finest; family, friends, decorations, and endless sweets. 

Here are a few pictures to sum up Christmas 2014.
Our Christmas Eve at the Russ house is on video.... maybe I'll get my act together and post a film later. I mean its already April and I'm posting about Christmas.... so don't hold your breath. 

After finding out we had not gotten Lizzy Christmas PJs, my sister-in-law Amy went and picked some up. Even if they were a little big, I love these pictures, especially the last one,

We actually went to a football game

Since Lizzy was born she has had a lot of firsts, but this UF football game was a first for Blake and I as well. We had never gone to football game as students, it being our last semester we figured it was a must. The week before we all went to our first tale gating party for Blake's BCN club, we had never seen campus transform into such a festive scene, and pumped us full of team spirit. So when a friend called with 12 tickets up for grabs, we took them and invited some of the Russ family to come along. The weather was perfect for little Lizzy to enjoy the outdoors and for me to get out of the house. The stadium is only a mile and a half from our apartment so we made the walk instead of fighting traffic. Even if the last few football seasons have not been the best, we are still proud to be Florida Gators.