FSMS Conference 2012

We just got back from our annual trip to the Florida Surveying and Mapping Society (FSMS) conference which was in Naples, FL this year.  I was really looking forward to this trip all year - especially since we've had several rough months recently.  Kate was so well behaved, which made it that much more enjoyable.  I feel like she and I haven't been able to spend much quality time together, so I was spoiled this week getting to spend the past six days with her. 

Gigi and Granddaddy were able to join us once again this year to keep Kate and I company and to watch Kate on the nights that I went with Justin to a conference event.  It makes such a difference for me having the extra help and I needed it more than ever this year, being 7 months (a few days shy of 8 months) pregnant.  Most afternoons Kate and I took naps, which is one of the benefits of being on vacation (to me).  One afternoon, I was tucking Kate in and started to leave the room and she she said "Mommy, get in your bed".  When I told her I wasn't lying down, she told me "That's not fair!".  Silly girl - she never fails to say something that makes me laugh. 

Ready to leave for the beach and wearing her favorite outfit (her purple dress).

Hanging out at the pool and the beach with Daddy. 

This was the first time that Kate loved the beach and didn't cry about the sand!

Wednesday night, the first big event of the conference, was a fish fry competition and kick off dinner.  This year, Daddy and Papa won!  Daddy also won the 2011-2012 Associate of the Year award (pre-licensed members) at the banquet on Saturday night.  This was the last year he qualified for the award since he just got licensed, and I am so proud of him! 

Kate loved all the water fountains around the hotel and the shopping malls.  She was much more cooperative taking pictures if it was in front of water.

Throwing coins in the hotel lobby's fountain - a new favorite of Kate's.

Shopping! 

I was pleasantly surprised at how well Kate did.  She took Granddaddy to every fountain at the mall and fell in love with the one where the ducks "lived".  I took advantage of Kate being willing to have her picture taken in front of the ducks so we all stopped and took a picture.

While we were shopping, Kate played and played with this manikin boy.  When I said it was time to go, she held his hand and asked me to take her picture.

 Before we left Naples, we were able to go and visit with Gaga and Scooby one afternoon, and with Nene and Pa on another day.  Unfortunately I didn't take any pictures at the Evers', but Kate gave me a brief moment where she was willing to pose for a picture with Gaga if I promised to let her see the picture - or as she says, "I want to see me".

Congrats again to Daddy for his big win and his award - we are so proud of you!  Thank you Gigi and Granddaddy for going with us again this year.  We can't wait for next year - which will be twice the fun with two kids!