Spending time on the couch

As we said a lamenting goodbye to the Keys, we decided to visit Karen’s second parents, Terry and Sidnye Couch (her high school best friend Terri Gunnell’s parents).  Their beautiful house in Parkland, Fl and their parental love was a warm welcome after being on the road for 2.5 weeks and 7 more to go before we get to Vancouver. 

Terri's brother, Larry, came over for most of our visit with his adorable dog Zoe.  I can't believe that 'little Lar' is a grown man and the spitting image of his father.  We immediately jumped into the pool

Awesome pool overlooking the lake

did a couple loads of laundry, ate steaks as big as our heads and politely discussed the State of the Union.

The next day Karen showed Tim and Georgia where she grew up in Plantation, Fl.  We went by the house.  Mom, your stag-horn ferns are humungous, and a new tree in the swale.

Karen's home of 17 years

And we played in Karen's childhood park, 5th Street Park.

Like me x years ago

5th Street Park still looks good

Then, we took a drive to the beach where Karen spent too many hours as a child sunning herself.

Ft Lauderdale Beach

As an American novelty, we ordered hot wings for dinner.  We were very comfortable at the Couches and had to push ourselves out the door to keep on our itinerary.  In true Mom style, our bags were stuffed with food and supplies.  Thanks, Sidnye, Terri and Larry!

Terry and Georgia watching Octonauts

Georgia, Karen and Sidnye saying goodbye