Key West

This weekend, all the intern girls traveled to the end of US and back! On the way, we stayed in Miami, where Monica’s grandmother (lovingly known as “Nina”) resides. Shoutout to her for hosting the 12 twenty-something ladies (11 of which she had never met). It was such a great time, and I can’t imagine going on this trip with any other group of girls. This post shouldn’t have too many words.

After work on Friday, we drove down to Miami. We arrived at Nina’s house close to 10pm, and she welcomed us with such warm hands and hospitality. She gave us a tour of her house (which could pass as a museum) and proceeded to list all the food she bought for us for breakfast (and the list is quite long). It reminded me of my (ah ma) and all the trinkets she had in her Taipei home, and the love and care she poured out to me as a little child. Sadly, I don’t remember very much, but it was so sweet to be a granddaughter this weekend.

Nina's Cute House

 One of Nina's Bedrooms

We woke up Saturday morning bright and early and drove 3 hours to Key West. On the way, we stopped at a store called “Key Lime Products,” which sold lots of souvenirs and key lime products. There were also so many shells! I wonder where they call came from, and when the ocean will run out of them.

Things No One Needs

More Stuff Outside

We stopped for lunch at Smather’s Beach, and it was beautiful! I can’t believe this is only my second time to the beach since living in Florida (oops). I need to visit more often before the end of May!

Wedding Happening Here Soon

A Coral Dock?

The Great Outdoors

After enjoying the beach, we headed to Key West, where we walked to the southernmost tip of the Continental US. Afterwards, we explored the town, which felt a little bit like the Surfer’s Paradise area in Australia. I had Key Lime Pie and Conch Fritters, two iconic food items from the Keys. I finally saw all the snowbirds (the older people who come to Florida during the winter) people mentioned.

 We Found This While in Line

The End of Us

Finally, we watched the sunset at Sunset Point and ate dinner at a Cuban restaurant. What a beautiful day with these beautiful people.

Sunset

On Sunday, we had a chill morning, then went to Nina’s church. After a Covered Dish (potluck), we went to Robert is Here Fruit Stand & Farm, which is a little bit like the Milk Pail market back home. But they also sell smoothies and milkshakes, and I got one that was mango and mamey [mah-MAY], a recommendation from Keren’s mom. It was delicious!

Mango + Mamey 

We Love Fruit

Before we left on our four-hour drive back to Orlando, Nina sat down on her porch, shared a few words of wisdom, and blessed us. One of the many great things she said was:

"Share your joys, and it will double."

If math works correctly, the joy I experienced this weekend increased twelvefold. What a blessing to spend this weekend with all these girls.