After reading the morning paper outside with our breakfast we tossed around a couple of ideas on how we would spend our last full day in Clearwater. We decided that we would do the two things that we enjoy - Bike rides and sitting at the Beach.The island of Honeymoon was the best place that we could accomplish these things so we set off with a full load in the pick up.
There is a trail that takes you to the northern most point of the island and it meanders through the wooded areas, marsh land and along the water.
Perfect habitat for all sorts of things. Signs were posted - beware of Rattlesnakes. There were all sorts of birds, each singing its own rendition of Berry White to find a mate. Kind of a peaceful trail, the kind of trail where one can get lost in his own thoughts.
Then, of course there is the mosquito. If you think about it, this is an insect that has a long proboscis to pierce the skin and suck the blood of humans and animals. That's it! It does nothing else!
They are like piranhas but only with wings because when there is one there are hundreds. The mosquito's on Honeymoon Island must be on a steroid diet because these things were the size of small compact cars. When they were flying around us it sounded like the violin section in an orchestra tuning up their instruments before the big show. That was the fastest trail ride we rode. By the time we found our way back to the car we both had welts the size of dimes all over our arms, legs and face. Luckily I had a chance to snap a few pictures along the way. Here is one that we were brave enough to pose for at the northern tip of the island. 
It taught us a very, very, very important lesson. Never, let me stress the importance of it again, NEVER leave home with out OFF (insect repellent).
It never felt so good to finally make it to the beach where the breeze was strong enough to keep our two winged friends away. Aaahhhh. The cool sand between my toes and the sun in my eyes. The only thing to snap me out of this nirvana that I had found was when Reta pointed out this man to me. She said "This is what you could look like when you are 80".
I had to quickly take this picture because what does this mean? What are you trying to tell me? Over dinner I had to bring up the situation again because I just didn't understand. She told me that she meant it as a compliment. Compliment? I'm sorry but I don't see it.
I had to quickly take this picture because what does this mean? What are you trying to tell me? Over dinner I had to bring up the situation again because I just didn't understand. She told me that she meant it as a compliment. Compliment? I'm sorry but I don't see it. God, I better add some type of weight lifting program to my exercise routine...
Today is moving day and as much as we would like to drive straight out of Florida there are two more places that we must see. (First of all, thanks Rico for telling us about Clearwater. It was worth it!) Crystal River, about 1.5 hours away. Famous for a hot spring where the manatees tend to hang out. One of the few places where you can get in the water and swim with them. Then there is Destin, which is on the pan handle of Florida. Famous for its beach and by now you know how much we love beaches.
In a couple of weeks we should be out of Florida and hopefully the other 47 states will have started to thaw out by then.
1 comment:
Elton, I thought that last picture was you walking on the beach. I guess I need my glasses.
Crystal River is cool. You can rent small boats and head out to the springs.
In Destin, the sand is so fine that when you walk on it sounds like new sneakers on a wood floor gym
Take care,
Rico
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