Ahhh.....

We woke up rested and ready to begin our winter in earnest.   I must admit, we're not big fans of the state of Florida in general, but we both absolutely love this little part of the state.   I don't know what there is about it,  perhaps we feel at home here because we've spent so many happy vacations in the Sarasota area.    For many years we owned a couple of condo's at a memorable and historic resort on Longboat Key  but, due to some extremely rancorous disputes, this bit of paradise has been standing empty.     After spending much money on assessments to fund the stupid legal battles, we finally decided that our time at the Colony Beach and Tennis Resort had come to an end.   We sold the last of our units this past spring.    I am particularly bitter about the way things have transpired, (deep breath) but  this area still makes us both happy.    Driving over the soaring white Ringling Bridge from Sarasota to the islands of Bird Key, St. Armands, Longboat Key and then Ana Maria Island always makes us smile.   The turquoise waters, the dolphins, the night herons and pelicans and that special "smell" of the air, Ahhhhhh.   Almost a homecoming.

Early this afternoon Pam, of thebigeztravels.blogspot.com, stopped over to introduce herself.   We've been following each other's blogs for awhile and it was so great to finally meet "in person"!    She and her husband Vic are at Holiday Cove for the next few months and we look forward to getting to know them for real.       Happy hour at Beluga tomorrow night....

Our site at Holiday Cove

Guys, when are you coming out with your second cup - come out, come out!

It was warm and overcast all day.   The weather suggesters told us that the sun would break out in the afternoon, never fear......

This is as much of the sun as we saw today......