Gulf Coast

1 week ago today we took an "exploration" trip to the gulf coast.  It's about 45 minutes from here.  We wanted to go to one of the wildlife preserves and birding trails but didn't quite make it.  As usual, we saw a couple of stops along the way. 

As we were traveling through the town of Crystal River, we saw a sign that said something about a wildlife area or "something" along that line.  By the time, we determined what it said we were past the sign so we decided to make the right hand turn and head down the road to see what was at the end.  So glad we did.   There was this little sandy beach that had a few water birds and of course, boat tail grackles.

It was kind of windy and a little cool but it kept the insects away.  Not too many people either.

There were quite a few black skimmers near the water. 

This is my favorite pic of the day.

We then drove over to the fishing pier and boat ramp.  Saw an osprey sitting in the tree.  We were able to get close enough to get this picture.

We met some people originally from Michigan.  They told us about the state park that has manatees.  So then we headed south towards Homosassa Springs.  We stopped off at the park and talked with the ranger.  We will be making a trip back.  It's going to be an all day "adventure" for us.  They have several educational programs for alligators, manatees, hippopotamus, etc.  In talking to the ranger, he told us about a restaurant close by near monkey island.  So next stop, lunch and checking out the Riverside Resort area.

Look close and you'll see Sharon.  It was a very bright day and I had my small camera with me. 

The view of Monkey Island from our table.

After eating, we went and talked to the guys at the Marina.  Found out about boat rentals, fishing guides, and boat rides including airboats.  We'll definitely be back.

Sharon took a couple of pictures of the monkeys while we were down by the marina.

 Until our next adventure. 

Florida

I know.  I know.  It's about time that I write. 

Yes, we did make it safely to Florida from Virginia.  We left Sunday morning and arrive here early Tuesday afternoon.   Monday morning was the worst for driving.  Heavy rains and wind.  We pulled into a truck stop for about 1/2 hour to let the worse part of the storm pass.

I think the worst part of the adjustment to Florida so far is the heat & humidity.  We left fall temps and arrived in mid-summer type conditions.  Hard for these "ol" bodies to get used to the humidity again. 

Here's where we're going to be until May 1.  Because of the sand & shells, we now have a new carpet and our reclining lounge chairs are sitting out under the awning.   Work is going well.  It's been easy & kind of boring all at the same time.  Sandy works from 4 - 8pm Monday thru Friday in the office. 

We've met a few of the workers and some of the campers staying here.  Most stores are fairly close.  There's a grocery store within 5 miles (Winn-Dixie) and a super Walmart 8 miles away.  The "Villages" are about 15 - 20 minutes away.  The Villages are little town centers for senior living.  They have music or some sort of entertainment every night in there park centers.  So far we've gone to the Villages about once a week.  The Walgreens pharmacy is there, a large citrus stand, Russell Stover outlet store, and some very nice restaurants.

Thanksgiving week I'll be working Wed night, Fri night and all day Saturday.  The lady that works on Saturday is taking my shifts so she can spend Thanksgiving with her daughter.  We're thinking of taking a trip to the Gulf on Monday.  It's about 45 minutes away.  Hope to do some birding and check out the other amenities.

Our second or third day here we rented a golf cart for the season to get around in.  Took a drive down to the lake and here's what we found.  No, haven't seen any alligators.

Sand Hill Cranes

Great Egret.  They've named him Charlie. 

The Spanish Moss is hanging from the trees everywhere.

We'll be having a campground potluck for Thanksgiving dinner.  The park is providing turkey & ham.  Hopefully, we'll get to meet a few more people.  Sharon will be picking up her fishing license this week so she can do some fishing down by the lake.  We're hoping that she'll get to try her hand at some salt water fishing while we're here.  The lake has bass, catfish and pan fish in it. 

Until next time.