After leaving Hilton Head Island, we made a short, two day stop at Fernandina Beach, Florida. We stayed at Ft. Clinch State Park, which was lovely, but the real reason for our visit was a favorite restaurant. We have been to the sweet little town of Fernandina Beach many times. The area was always a good stopping off spot on the long drive to our place at the Colony Beach and Tennis Club on Longboat Key. This was our first time camping at Ft. Clinch State Park river campground and we were very pleased
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| the campground is down this 4 mile long canopy road |
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| Amelia River |
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| guys, guys, can I swim? Can I fish? guys, guys! |
Lewis had his eye on the Amelia River flowing by just two sites away, but he just had a bath and we had other plans for him later so he needed to stay clean. Poor Lewis.
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| Christmas mowing begins |
There are a few really good restaurants in the small historic section and we've eaten at them all. Our favorite, however, and the one that keeps us coming back is LeClos. It's in a tiny yellow cottage, complete with picket fence, and a fern filled outdoor seating patio. Inside the walls are flamingo and it holds all of 12 tables.
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| my salad - just the beginning |
So....that was Fernandina Beach. The next morning we continued south to our next stop, North Beach Camp Resort on Vilano Beach, just north of St. Augustine.
We all love it here, lots of space outside for Lewis to lounge sans leash, plenty of thick foliage perfect for visiting birds, the ocean on one side and the river on the other.
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| Catbird at second cup |
Today we walked to the back of the campground for a waterside lunch at Aunt Kate's. Geez, one might think all we do is eat!
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| he was posing nicely til that speedboat shot by! |
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| post prandial pelicans |
After lunch we did a bit of shopping and then headed home to put up our Christmas tree. Dave couldn't wait, this is his favorite tree. He used to hate this job when we lived at the farm. We had two real trees and his job was to l) traipse around in the snow while I selected two perfect trees and then lie down in it to cut them down, 2) bring them in and set them up, 3) string the lights, and 4) vacuum up the falling needles. stall, stall, stall - crab crab crab. Now, he happily puts up the tree in no time at all and smiles the whole time!
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| it's on a timer and it twinkles! |
I would like to follow in your footsteps to try all these cute places with all the yummy food. Sounds like lots of nice memories you have made and continue to make. Love the picture of Lewis keeping a watchful eye...the squirrels would drive Sally crazy! And your Christmas tree is perfect! Dave did an awesome job!
ReplyDeleteThanks for not commenting on my math skills, I've always been challenged! :)
DeleteYour trip south is sounding so relaxing and much warmer than your start. You've stayed at some great parks. So much room and privacy for my boy to lounge outside. Seems like it might be time to stir up that mat and search for the fish!! The yellow cottage restaurant is adorable. I know how much you two enjoy these excellent little places. Love eating by the water! One of the things I do miss about not going to Florida. Your picnic table setting reminded me of the Starfish in Cortez. So glad all is going so well.
ReplyDeleteOh, it all looks fabulous!! You've had some beautiful sites and wonderful meals on your way to Florida. We're following in your tire tracks...we'll be at Ft. Clinch for several days next week. LeClos is on our list, thanks to you. We've been on a grand culinary tour of the east coast this past few months...we need to knock it off in the new year. But not before we get to do something fun with you in St. Augustine, LOL. See you soon! :-))
ReplyDeleteSimpler life, simple Christmas tree without the snow!
ReplyDeleteAt last you have a break in the weather and enjoying the beaches and sunny Florida! But I could not say I am jealous :)
Boooo to grooming - let a guy swim!
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