Last Stop: Castaway Cay

Our last stop on the cruise happened to be my favorite! It was Castaway Cay, Bahamas -- which is Disney's private island. This place felt like paradise!

It was gorgeous and Disney had thought of everything to make it easier on families -- strollers and wagons, beach chairs, bikes, swimming gear and zip lines, etc. There was a splash pad and snorkeling gear. The hours on this island were definitely too short!

 The water on my shirt I dumped on my to cool off. It's not sweat!

 

For being athletic all my life, and running on my treadmill several times a week for the nine years I've owned it, I have actually never ran a 5K race. This is something I've wanted to do, but it's either never worked out or I've been too chicken to try something new. So, when I heard a 5K race was offered at our last stop, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to do it. And, better yet, my sister Heather wanted to as well!

I just kept thinking that it was my first 5K and it was in Castaway Cay, Bahamas!! Talk about a thrill!

The day was so relaxing! It felt like Disney World on an island and was truly just an extension of the boat. It had dozens of family-friendly activities, was super clean, and was so well thought-out! They fed us a delicious lunch on the island too and had all you can eat ice cream and drinks all day.

One of the most exciting parts of the island for the girls was that Grandma paid for all the big-girl cousins to get Caribbean hair!

They could choose their bead colors, and the way they wanted their hair braided.

This was a good hair-do for Ellie because it eliminated the need to straighten her curly-hair bangs everyday!

Teyah chose pink and blue beads with diagonal braids.

I think I loved Teyah's look the best.

Aubrie has an extremely sensitive head and only wanted two long braids. She also kept hers in the shortest amount of time.

Grandma got a kiss of thanks!

They were all smiles when they were done (we were a little worried there might be drama, but fortunately there was none!).

The worst part of Castaway Cay was that it mean it was our last day on the cruise. From now on when I visualize paradise, I will envision Castaway Cay! Thanks grandma for the best times of our lives! Recently, Ellie told me "the best day of my life was the day I got on the cruise and the worst day of my life was the day I got off!" I think that pretty much sums it up! Recently, I observed a conversation where someone asked Teyah what she would buy if she was given some cash, and her response was: "I would buy a Disney Cruise boat because I want to go back!"