#PassportToMP: Pane Family Vacation

A family Work Away that worked

Our family workcation to Clearwater, Florida, was nothing short of fantastic! From the less than 3-hour flight (perfect when you have little ones) to the sunny weather and beautiful beaches—we had an awesome time.

We explored Tarpon Springs Aquarium, where the kids fed turtles, held snakes and pet baby alligators. We met some very old and slow, yet beautiful turtles who laid nine eggs waiting to hatch! We also fed sharks and learned about chameleons. It was an interesting aquarium, small and intimate, with staff who were super friendly and knowledgeable.

Toronto had been missing sunshine from December 21st onward and I was in a real cloud funk. While away, I created a poolside oasis workspace, which wasn't too shabby and just two weeks of Florida’s sunshine were dramatically mood-changing.

‍Water, parks and a whole lot of sunset love!

‍The house we rented had a gorgeous pool, which we all enjoyed. When beach days weren’t possible, it was nice to have this option available for the kids. Sophia, who is almost three now, was able to swim on her own (with swimmers) for the first time—a big accomplishment that she was so proud to achieve. Now that we’re back home, we’ve signed her up for swimming classes.

Beach days took the cake and we made sure to explore a few prime spots nearby. Honeymoon Beach was breathtaking and Sand Key Park was a blast—we saw countless dolphins popping in and out of the water. Clearwater Beach was busy but ideal for seashell collecting. Pier 60 is the perfect sunset spot with little shops/vendors setting up at night along the boardwalk. We even found some unique candles that double as hydrating oil for the skin.

The neighbourhood we stayed in had plenty of parks nearby, and aside from the usual slides and swings, the parks included some excellent nature paths. We saw beautiful birds, turtles and sea creatures in the wild. We were told that a crocodile was living in one of the preserves we visited, but I think it was hiding in the water when we arrived. Maybe we’ll see it next time!Toronto had been missing sunshine from December 21st onward and I was in a real cloud funk. While away, I created a poolside oasis workspace, which wasn't too shabby and just two weeks of Florida’s sunshine were dramatically mood-changing.

Visits with family and friends

‍My mom flew down and joined us for the second week. She soaked up the sun, caught some gorgeous sunsets, joined our ice cream strolls and snuck out with me on late-night Target runs once the kiddies were off to bed. Having her join us was a huge help, and brought me back to when I was a kid vacationing in Florida with my family. Oh, how times have changed. I was now driving her around town with my kiddies in the back seat, just as she did with my grandparents back in the day. It was nice to reminisce.A weekend visit from my long time friend was yet another bonus on this trip. Jade moved to Atlanta over ten years ago, so to say we don’t see each other quite as much as we would like is an understatement. She flew down and met my two girls in person for the first time. It was beyond special to see them quickly snuggle up to her and call her Auntie Jade!

Other friends of ours live in Dunedin, a quick 10 min drive from our rental. We had a cookout at their house one night and were able to slip in a double-date night as well (thanks, Grandma, for babysitting!).

‍Thanks for the memories!

‍This trip will forever hold a special place in my heart. It brought together so many aspects of life that make me truly happy and I built memories that will last a lifetime. I can’t thank Media Profile enough for allowing me this opportunity with their extraordinary Work Away Benefit. In a post-COVID-19 world, this is exactly what humanity needs: Interaction, connection, re-connection, opportunity and a change in scenery. All of which lead to a fantastic lift to the spirit. Hat tip to you MP, you nailed it!

‍Curious to learn more about MP’s adventures abroad? Stay tuned for future Our Take #PassportToMP blog posts where employees will share their work away experiences..