Photo of Ellen and Nick

Many of you may not know this, but my husband and I raised our  nephews for most of their lives.  As teens, they chose to move back to Illinois to live with their mother, my sister, and see how things would be there.

Well, it is a few years later, and our 19 year old nephew Nick, whom we think of and refer to as a son, has returned to sunny South Florida, bringing with him his girlfriend Nelly, her five year old son Isaiah, and their 11 month old son Jaden.

I had no idea I would be thrown into the role of Grandma--or what I have them call me, GG (glamourous Grandma)--at just under 40 years of age. To my amazement, I love it!

I love having all of them down here and the children are such a gift.  I am also rediscovering Florida and all it has to offer while I am off on this new adventure.

My daughter-in-law and I took my son, Kevin and the grandkids (will I ever not wince when I say that?) to Castaway Island at TY Park in Hollywood, FL. Watching the children play in the water brought out the kid in me and I could not help but jump in with them; I had a great time.

TY Park is a playground for kids of all ages with tons of things to do including camping, paddle boating, barbecuing, and splashing about in two water parks: the Swim Lagoon and Castaway Island.

Admission is only $1.00 to enter on weekends and holidays, and it's absolutely free for children five and under!  This is a wonderful and affordable outing or the entire family.

For more information on TY Park, and all that South Florida has to offer, visit www.visithollywood.org, If you're planning or thinking about relocating here, you'll love it!! We have it all--sunshine, the ocean, and lots of events and activities for everyone.  We can help you find that perfect home, or determine your home's value, so be sure to check out our website, www.homeinsouthflorida.com for tons of great tips and information.