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Fort Myers Flashback – Poolside Moments, a Lucky Win & One Special Visit

 By Katelyn Mayer | PA & MD REALTOR® | Iron Valley Real Estate of Central PA

Back in July 2018, Brad, the kids, and I took a summer getaway to Fort Myers Beach, Florida. It wasn’t the ideal beach vacation we’d pictured, but it turned out to be one of those trips filled with real-life moments — from poolside fun and an unexpected lottery win to a deeply meaningful visit I’ll always hold close.

✈️ Travel Details

We flew from Philadelphia (PHL) to Fort Myers (RSW) on July 22, 2018, departing at 8:30 AM and arriving at 11:34 AM.
Our return flight on July 29 left at 12:34 PM, and we landed back home at 3:17 PM.

🏨 Where We Stayed

We checked into Pierview Hotel & Suites on July 22 and stayed through July 29. At the time, it was a convenient beachfront hotel for our family — though looking back now, it’s not a place I’d likely choose again. Tastes and expectations shift as we grow, and that’s part of the travel journey too.

🌊 Red Tide & Poolside Plan B

Unfortunately, red tide hit during our stay, so beach days were off the table. The ocean was beautiful but unreachable. Thankfully, the kids had a blast at the pool, and we soaked up as much sunshine and quality time together as we could.

🍀 Brad’s $1,000 Lottery Win

One surprise highlight? Brad won $1,000 on a scratch-off while we were there! Definitely a fun and unexpected twist that made the trip even more memorable.

❤️ A Personal Visit with Pappy Larry

While we were in Fort Myers, I took the opportunity to visit my grandfather, Pappy Larry, who was living in a retirement home nearby.

He had been living with dementia, and though many days were difficult, I’ll never forget the moment he saw me and lit up. That flash of recognition — that smile — was everything.

The kids didn’t come with me for that visit, but I’m so grateful I went. Pappy Larry has since passed, and that day we shared is something I’ll carry in my heart forever.

🧳 What This Trip Taught Me

Even without beach days or five-star accommodations, this trip reminded me what really matters: family time, resilience, and cherishing meaningful connections — even if they come in small, quiet moments.

🏡 Life, Real Estate & Finding Your Space

As a REALTOR®, I help people find more than houses — I help them find places where memories are made. Whether it’s a vacation retreat, a retirement moves, or a new chapter for your family, I’m here to guide you through it all.

Katelyn Mayer
📍 PA & MD REALTOR® | Iron Valley Real Estate of Central PA

Contact Me
📧 katelynm359@gmail.com
🌐 kmayer.ironvalleyrealestate.com
📱 Cell: 717-446-1640 | ☎️ Office: 717-563-0008
🏢 121 Towne Square Dr. Suite 203, Hershey, PA 17033

I am not an attorney licensed to practice law in this Commonwealth. I am not allowed to draft legal records, give advice on legal matters, including immigration, or charge a fee for those activities.

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