Saturday, February 28, 2009

A ray of hope


This gentleman walked out to the waters edge, opened his beach chair, then sat down facing the approaching storm. Either he was hoping the storm would pass elsewhere, or he was hoping he could catch a few rays before it hit.

Village trolley


There are several of these vehicles in Spanish Springs. If you're investigating The Villages as a possible home, and visit the sales office in Spanish Springs, you will receive a free tour through the area on one of these trolleys, all the while, of course, being subjected to a sales pitch.

Morning mist


Sometimes, at Pine Island Ridge golf course in Davie, Florida, when cool and warm air collide, golfers find themselves in this misty predicament.

Friday, February 27, 2009

Sunset in Naples

Conspicuous consumption?


I had never seen a "Cadillac" golf cart before. If you look closely, you might be able to make out the price - over $18,000! This golf cart was for sale at a golf cart store in Sumter Landing.

A evening vision in magenta

In this night photo of the dock area, shot from the bay/marina side, the colors show much more magenta than the previous night shot we put up.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Leaving Key West for a cruise

The day closes on downtown Spanish Springs


Photo by Lois Anne.

Cedar Key carriage ride

While Cedar Key is not a large community, it has an interesting history and numerous sites of historical interest. This is an easy way to get around town (in the summer, especially) while at the same time learning everything you need to know about Cedar Key.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Cedar Key Cracker Home



This 19th century cracker home, similar to thousands across Florida at the time, has been lovingly restored and sits on the site of the Cedar Key Museum.

Interior shots of the kitchen and dining room are by Lois Anne.

Evening arrives at Lake Sumter

Photo by Lois Anne

Family vacation

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Sunset at the Naples Pier


The city of Naples, located on Florida's southwest coast, is one of mother nature's treasures. The sunsets are magnificent and most nights people in the area gather on the Naples pier to watch the sun go down. This photo is from one of those nights.

The Veranda Restaurant

The Veranda Restaurant is located in the The Villages Sumter Landing Hometown, across from the town square. One can dine inside in very upscale surroundings, or outside on the veranda. We have yet to eat there, probably because of the upscale prices.

The Island Hotel & Restaurant

The Island Hotel on Cedar Key's main drag was built in 1859 as a general store. Today it is a Bed & Breakfast with 10 rooms. It has survived numerous hurricanes over the years, and is said to be visited by ghosts.

The Island Hotel & Restaurant is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Read a fascinating account of its construction and history here.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Florida tacky

Flamingo Gardens in Davie, Florida (South Florida) was originally settled by the natives living in the area. Later it became a citrus producing property (which it still is). Today, it has become part park featuring buildings and artifacts from the "old" days, a small zoo, and the opportunity to walk through the landscape typical of the southern part of the state.

Sunset on still waters - Lake Sumter


Photo by Lois Anne.

Cedar Key back bays


Photo by Lois Anne.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Sunken slowly


A boat that has seen its better days.

Sneaky snake


Sneaky snake discovered at the Ding Darling Preserve on Sanibel Island.

Main Street - Sumter Landing