Florida

We enjoyed two smooth, on time flights, an easy transfer in Atlanta, and we were in Sarasota airport on a warm beautiful afternoon. And that was pretty much how the whole past week went. Warm sunny days, with a slight breeze coming in off of the Gulf. We slept late, ate often, and stayed close to water. We took long walks on the beach, and we may have gotten a little sun burnt. Food included an Amish buffet, prime rib at the WaterfrontToo, Belgian waffle at Firstwatch, seafood at Red Lobster, liver and onions at Yoder's, and BBQ baby back ribs at Sonny's. We enjoyed the fellowship at Sarasota church, and the fellowship with Dad, Mom, Brent, and Beth in the condo. And we enjoyed the presence of two active young ladies.

The old farmer usually feels out of place on a beach, but after a few days watching the parade there, I think just about anybody could fit in! The next time I go down, I'm going to buy a shelling basket so I can spend more time hunting for shark's teeth. Along with my hiking stick collection, I think I am going to start collecting sand from each beach we visit. Nothing like adding more stuff to a full house. Oh, and we stopped at two bookstores and added to our book collection.

Here's a sampling of pictures from our trip.

This big old bird was in the parking lot of the WaterfrontToo restaurant.

The white sands of Siesta Key beach.

Some of the sailboats near Sarasota harbor.

Alligator viewed from the air boat in Myakka River State Park.

Alligators sunning themselves on the bank.

Grandma and Grandpa on the beach with Kami and Amor.

The beautiful water and sand of Venice Beach.

Seagull on the Venice pier.

Sunset on Siesta Key.

That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies;

Genesis 22:17