Dad win deserves a poolside beer upon arrival to Manasota Beach Club in Florida. After a 3 hour car ride due to unexpected backups and a daring median maneuver by Matt in our rental Hyundai, we made it to a glorious peaceful gulf side key. Matt scored the Ibis house with a refreshing pool just steps to the beach. Matt came here as a kid and apparently it hasn’t changed much in terms of decor and vibe, but it was perfect for us. No glitz. No others on the beach. Complete privacy. We were in heaven. Oh, and we had a separate bedroom for Evvie, a washer and dryer and a bathtub #babypriorities. 

The girl learned to count “uh, doo, weeeee” then jump into the pool.

She had slept through the night for 3 nights for the first time ever just before we left (Ferber style). This was so huge for Matt and me that we seriously considered canceling our trip. Nights there were restless and sleeps haven’t returned to normal, but the shell and shark tooth collection make it all worthwhile.