Hey Cuties,
The family and I spent the past week in beautiful Miami Beach. The weather was beautiful, the ocean water was warm, the air was clear and we were at ease. This was an especially exciting trip for LittleCuteLips. She was going to Miami for the first time, but more importantly, she was flying for the first time. 
I purchased our tickets in May during a Memorial Day sale; flying as a family of four isn’t cheap. The Universe saw fit to make things work out and I jumped on the tickets immediately. I get that not everyone can afford these holidays, especially when nearing retirement, as you have to save so much. I guess that’s why some people like to do an equity release so that they can free up funds for this sort of holiday. Somewhere similar to keyadvice.co.uk might be able to help.
Miami Beach, Florida
This was a vacation with no expectations and no itinerary. I had a few ideas of places we could go in the back of my mind but I didn’t really pursue them. My friend told me that san diego whale watching was worth checking out but wasn’t an idea I went for in the end. The kids only requests were the beach and the pool. Did you hear that? Free and free. Certainly, we could deliver on that ask.
LittleCuteLips is in Miami
We got settled in, walked around, got some grub, took a nap and all of that. We slept as much as we wanted and that was incredible. We are an on the go family, the kids have things, Babe and I have things and although we get weekends here and there to unwind, we don’t just have a week to unwind. This was that week for us and it felt good.
Relax, Relate, Release!
The day before we left for vacation the kids and I hit up the mall. I went for a watch, which I did get but we walked past these inflatable adult beds. I let the kids test them out and then the begging started; so I purchased two because how dare they share. (sarcasm) They are $30 each but they are so worth the investment. You fill them with air, so no pump is needed. This one isn’t out at its full length. We also put them in the pool and floated around. 1 Minute video on how it works.
My heartbeats
I took pictures, but not as many as I usually do. This was a more in the moment type of trip. The ones I did capture were priceless moments. My kid’s fuss and fight all the time, ALL THE TIME. The crazy part is they love hard as well. They get in trouble for fussing but don’t want to be away from one another. It was nice to capture them being their true selves. Laughing and playing.
My Manchild
My boy is almost thirteen and he is growing so fast, we are gearing up for the eighth grade so I’m relishing in these moments a bit more.
Mi & Babe
I couldn’t let the kids have all of the fun, so I had the Manchild snap some pictures of Babe and I. My bathing suit is from Mess In A Bottle the grillz were perfect for the 305. Miami boys are real southern and they appreciate a grill.
The Manchild & LittleCuteLips
What I did learn this week is I need a workout plan. Why does my son have so many dag on muscles? lol
Beaching it…
I watched the kids do their thing. I watched them kick the ball around with Babe and listen to them laugh and tease one another.
MimiCuteLips Party of 4
Ask a stranger to take a family picture, YUP!
The View…
How could you not enjoy this view? It was quiet and still, yet rowdy at the same time. We knocked out all of the requests. I had two requests, one is mandatory annually, so it doesn’t really count. I must see fireworks on the 4th of July, and I don’t mean bootleg backyard fireworks. I want a full on display with road closures and the fire department. So, we headed down to South Beach to Watch the Fireworks show on the beach and Ocean Drive.
Pool Time
The pool was the perfect size for us. The kids had plenty of room to splash around and the Manchild could swim around. LittleCuteLips has had a lot of time in a big pool, but she made quick work of it.
Spying on them…
I love to catch them doing what they do.
Babe
I love this shot, Babe is the background type of guy. He is anti-social media, and if you don’t know me personally you may not realize he exists. He is a force though, know that. He humors me and lets me snap pictures of him or he snaps pictures of me. This pool shot is perfect, usually, I’m in the spotlight. This time I’m in the background of his sun-glass lens and he is the star.
The Girls…
Between the beach and the pool, we tossed in a trip to the movies to see Despicable Me 3, which was freaking hilarious. I’ve seen them all but this one is the funniest. It was a sweatshirt dress type of day for my favorite girl and Mi.
The Boys…
You always hear people say kids grow up so fast and enjoy them while you can. You also hear people say treasure those you love because tomorrow isn’t promised. This was a week of doing both of those things.
It is so hard to say good-bye…
My second and final request was a trip to Wynwood, it’s an art district in downtown Miami. Think murals everywhere. Over the years I’ve seen bits and pieces but that’s it. This time I wanted to see more. I finally had my chance to go, it was so much art and beauty that I have to share it in another post. Tune in on Wednesday for a full recap.
Where do you and your family vacate? Chat with me in the comments below or FB, IG, and Twitter.
What a fun place to visit. I’ve always wanted to spend a week in Florida and just relax, beach hop, and drink tons of drinks.
Florida is the perfect place to do all of that.
Looks like you had an amazing time! The fam is Beautiful! I haven’t been to Miami in a while…. will definitely be making a trip soon! Thanks for sharing!
You can do a family trip, girls trip or a bae-cation.
Miami Beach is AWESOME!!! I have been there twice and would love to go back again!
The city is gorgeous and of course beaches are beautiful.
I love your red one piece swimsuit too by the way!
Thanks, Joely.
What a fabulous family vacation and you all look so happy! My kids love being in the water, so they would have been happy with both the beach and pool too, and my oldest is also heading into eighth grade, so I am also trying to savor every moment of her childhood.
Oh Marcie, I feel your pain.
I love your photos! It looks like everyone had a blast. Now I want to go to the beach.
Thanks, Amber. I’m trying to get better at this picture thing.
Girl, I am so jealous of you guys. I flew into Miami on my way to Key West last year, but didn’t have nearly enough time to explore the city. i need to get back.
Oh you must go back. Robin, I love Key West. We drove to Key West from Miami.
Miami Beach is a fantastic vacation spot. These are some great photos. I remember when my Son flew for the first time. He loved it and is always excited to go again.
Thanks Claudia, I love Miami. I’ve been a lot of times, but it never gets old. Each experience is different than the other. I love that.
That looks like a fabulous place to visit! I love the beach and the palm trees!!
It is really fab, the palm trees are such a nice touch.
That looks like a lot of fun! I would love to see that place in person!
You should experience Miami for sure.
Oh wow!! It looks like y’all had a blast in Miami!! I have always wanted to go there and it looks like I need to make that happen sooner rather than later!!
Get on it Ricci.
Looks like you guys enjoyed each other and your vacation!
But why was I about to say the same thing about working out though! I don’t think I’ve ever seen a 13 year old that fit! haha. Putting me to shame!
We really did Tanay. Girl his muscles are crazy.
Looks like you had a relaxing vacation. We go to Miami once or twice each year to visit family. We are in Orlando so it’s not too far (4-5hrs). So worth it. The beaches are amazing. And tons of shopping!
LOVE the float you got!
I want to take the kids to Orlando. The little one has never been.
This looks like you had such an amazing trip! I’ve never been to Miami, but you seriously have me wanting to go there now! And that turquoise bikini looks INCREDIBLE on you!
I always say I’m not a beach person but I love the calmness of the beach.
Thanks.
Sounds like a wonderful time for your family. There is so much to see and do in Miami. I would love to visit one day.
Thanks, we had such a good time.
You guys looks so happy and it shows in the pictures! I think this was a nice vacation for the whole family. You got to spend time together and play with the kids as well.
Yes, Carol. It was the best of both worlds.
That looks like so much fun. This would be such a great vacation for my family. I have always wanted to go to Miami beach.
You guys would have a great time.
Miami is an awesome place! I’m glad you got the chance to take the whole family there! It looks like you made the most out of your time as well! Everyone looks so happy!
We really did Jocelyn. I need to pattern our future vacations after this one.
I’ve only been to Miami once and that was for a conference with my husband. Afterwards, we headed to Ft Lauderdale to go on a 7 day cruise.
Nice Shannon. I fly into Ft. Lauderdale a lot but I’ve never explored it.
I love Miami. I used to go often in my 20’s. I haven’t been back in maybe 3 years. It looks like you all had a great time. You’re making me want to revisit. I see you’re wearing my friend’s bathing suit.
Yes, you totally should. Kim, yes girl that is my boo. I love her brand and her grind.
Mimi you are so funny lol I loved that you brought two inflatables because you wanted one to yourself! Your kids are adorable and I’m glad you had an amazing time in Miami! 🙂
Hahahha, thanks Alaya. It was a good time.
You captured a lot of beautiful moments. I have a family of four as well which is why we never fly. I am glad you caught an awesome deal I will have to keep my eye out for better deals.
Jilly, I totally get it.
I love it! You guys took some great pictures too. I’m glad that you and your hubby had a chance to relax, sleep in and enjoy your family. That’s a blessing.
Thanks Candice, it was needed for sure.
looks like you had an amazing time, you’re so lucky! Glad you got the good old family time to make those forever moments! Also, that thing you were relaxing on looks super comfy and I wish I had one!
Thanks, Eloise. The chair is so freaking comfortable.
Im so jealous rightnow on your beach vacation. Ours is in 2 months in Destin Im counting the days. You look gorgeous on your swimsuit 🙂 Miami is on our bucket list hopefully soon we can do roadtrip on Florida Keys.
Nice, Farrah. I’ve not been to Destin but I heard it is beautiful. I’ve done the road trip to the Keys from Miami, it is beautiful.
Thanks, I think I’m hooked on swimsuits now.
Looks like a fun but relaxing time!!! I cant wait until we can have another vacation like that! I want to go to Miami!!
Fun and relaxing for sure.
This looks like a perfect family vacation! Enjoy these moments for the kids grow up too fast and then they do not want to go on vacations anymore!
Sara, you are so right. That is why I try to savor these moments.
I was just in Fort Lauderdale not too long ago. i feel like i got to Miami at least once a year I love it and its always a different experience everytime I go. I love the Wynwood art district.
Kiwi, same for me. I love Miami for that.
First of all, you have a beautiful family. I also love how well dressed you all were. I’m guessing you picked out the outfits? When we travel I usually have to do the same for our family, lol. I’m glad you guys had a great time. I love Miami Beach too !
Thanks, Karen. Even while on vacation we are in Mom mode but family vacation is so worth it.
Miami is on my bucket list to take my little one. I was thinking of doing it in combination of a cruise. Looks like you guys had an awesome time. Beautiful family.
Thanks, Shantel. We did, combining your time with a cruise is a great idea.
I’ve been to Miami Beach once (wedding shower) and we had a ball! I did find things a bit expensive so when kids want pool and beach that was a win-win.. lol.. it’s wonderful when the little things count the most! Glad you enjoyed your vacation.. . Btw.. (you have a beautiful family 🙂
Jamala, sometimes the experiences are pricey. I live in the DC area so I’m used to expensive junk. Thanks.
So cool. We’ve visited Fl as a family but to Orlando. I wasn’t aware that children could have fun in Miami too. Great post, will have to look into it.
We are due back for a trip to Orlando, LittleCuteLips hasn’t been yet. Oh yeah, Miami can be kid friendly.
I love Miami Beach!! It is definitely the best beach in the USA, ice blue waters abound. Your LCL is too cute, and I hope she enjoyed her very first flight.
Keisha, it is a favorite for sure. Hahaha thanks, she enjoyed it.
It looks like you had an awesome time on your vacation. You’re daughter is so cute with her little neck pillow! I really enjoy spending time in the Miami Beach area, just because the water seems to always be perfect! Thanks for sharing your family vacay!
Thanks, Tryphena. Girl, the water is so perfect.
Man that looks beautiful! I haven’t been to Miami since 2010 for Blogalicious. I need to get back. My son has friends there and he has been really wanting to go. Great photos too!
Thanks, you guys should totally go.
Omg I love Florida!!! Super fun and family ordinated place to visit! You guys look like you had a wonderful vacation. And might I add that red bathing suit is EVERYTHING!!!!
We had a good time. Thanks, Toni I love this swimsuit.
Love the grillz bathing suit and I’m glad you got to enjoy Miami with your family!
Thanks, Shani. I love it.
Miami looks amazing!! I haven’t been – yet – but it’s good to know it’s a great place to getaway with the whole family. Who Knew?! 🙂
You only hear about the turn up, and you can certainly get that there. However there are so many family friendly things to do.
Family vacations are the best and you all look like you had a blast in Miami.
The one piece swimsuit is super cute.
Thanks, Adeola. We had a great time.
Great pictures! You had some amazing views! Glad you had a chance to unwind with your family!
Thanks, Kasi. It was much needed.