tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89033115055596608442024-02-07T21:45:17.978-08:00Carbus Travels JournalPete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.comBlogger514125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-16011595236521020452017-09-03T17:49:00.001-07:002017-09-03T18:11:08.533-07:00Sept. 3, 2017<h2><font color="#0000ff">Back in USA and back online</font></h2> <p>Have been totally out of contact for a week.  Verizon ‘international’ roaming pretty much sucks.</p> <p>Brief recap of last week.</p> <p>Left tri-cities to home of our friends the Alfanos in Spokane.  Overnight there and then north with them accompanying us in their rig.  Up through the Idaho panhandle and in to Canada.  Over night in a provincial park and then north and east to Lake Louise. We were there several years ago in May and it was iced over.  Sue wanted to see it in fluid state.  We lucked out - again.  Since leaving home we have had noticeable smoke all the way every day.  Some days more than others.  Could barely see Mt. Shasta.  Traveling over the central Oregon mountains we could barely see 100 yards at the summit. Every day had smoky horizons with red ball sunrises and sunsets.  Smoke still continues on all our trip so far and will continue based on news reports of fires in direction we are heading.  We had two exceptions to continuous smoky skies.  First was day of eclipse.  Sky was clear and we had a great view.  Second was afternoon we arrived at Lake Louise.  We had smoke on the west side of Canadian Rockies but east side was clear.  Great views of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.  LOTS of people but great views.  The next morning the smoke had made it to the east side and Lake Louise basin was full of smoke.  Could barely see across lake.  Normally spectacular drive up the Icefield Parkway was obscured by smoke. Mountains around Jasper barely visible. </p> <p>Got some flaky internet connection long enough to get email and learn that my cousin, whom we had just visited, had died.  Less than ten days ago she was clobbering Sue in Scrabble.  We will be modifying our journey to attend her service.</p> <p>East to Edmonton.  Smoke better but still there.  Spent a full day roaming the West Edmonton Mall.  Largest mall in North America – used to be largest in world.  Amazing place. Too much to describe.  Google it <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="style" alt="Smile" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ohmDUdGeCJY/Wayi_U7MkKI/AAAAAAAAL_0/vjHB3_nP64ktmijiKL7a9OpC-kP80RENQCHMYCw/wlEmoticon-smile%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" />.  Except for this – we found  Dole Whip! <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="style" alt="Smile" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ohmDUdGeCJY/Wayi_U7MkKI/AAAAAAAAL_0/vjHB3_nP64ktmijiKL7a9OpC-kP80RENQCHMYCw/wlEmoticon-smile%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" /> <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="style" alt="Smile" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ohmDUdGeCJY/Wayi_U7MkKI/AAAAAAAAL_0/vjHB3_nP64ktmijiKL7a9OpC-kP80RENQCHMYCw/wlEmoticon-smile%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" /></p> <p>Yesterday we went to Calgary and wandered the grounds of the Calgary Stampede. Extensive site with lots of different venues.  Huge auditorium where local professional hockey team plays.  Holds many thousands.  We know.  When we got there a Garth Brooks concert was about to start.  Lines hundreds of yards long at several entrances.  We went to an indoor arena and watched barrel racing.  Did not get to see inside the huge rodeo arena.</p> <p>South today back to USA.  Tomorrow further south in Montana and more smoke – lots of fires.</p> <p>Sorry no pictures.  Smoke sort of dampens picture taking and good ones have not been downloaded from camera.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-66170680668881358662017-08-26T07:33:00.001-07:002017-08-26T07:33:16.239-07:00Aug. 26, 2017 Morning<p>We spent Tuesday night in a service bay of RV Glass Solutions so that the motorhome did not move while the the cement cured. Up early so we could clear the space for the next wave of repairs. Wednesday morning we headed north on I 5.  Eclipse traffic was over but commute traffic was in force and thicker as we reached Portland area.  Across the Columbia River to Vancouver, WA and parked at an Elks lodge.  Spent the afternoon and evening visiting with friends from Air Force days.  We visited them in Alaska several years ago and they had subsequently moved to Washington.</p> <p>Thursday morning we headed up the Columbia River, through the gorge and on to eastern Oregon and then across the river to the Tri-Cities area in Washington. Parked and set up the Carbus in front of the home of friends we have known since Scouting in Palo Alto over 60 years ago.  Great visit!  Some sightseeing, delicious meals, and almost nonstop talking and reminiscing for over a day and a half. We should visit WA more.</p> <p>This morning we will go to Spokane.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-4587919458072522172017-08-22T18:10:00.001-07:002017-08-22T20:14:27.488-07:00August 22, 2017<h2>
<span style="color: blue;">New Windshield and Fun Visit</span></h2>
Early drive south to Coburg Oregon. RV Glass Solutions is THE place to get RV windshield replacements. Will not go in to detail but if questions get in touch.<br />
While windshield was being replaced we drove north to Salem. Here is what we did:<br />
<a href="http://thedestinators.com/2017/08/22/salem-an-opportunistic-rendezvous/#more-3133" title="http://thedestinators.com/2017/08/22/salem-an-opportunistic-rendezvous/#more-3133">http://thedestinators.com/2017/08/22/salem-an-opportunistic-rendezvous/#more-3133</a><br />
Thanks Sue and Doug for excellent description of the day. Much better than what I might have come up with. It was fun. Sorry we are 3000 miles apart. Happy Trails!Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-72446178322517405362017-08-21T11:39:00.001-07:002017-08-21T11:58:02.563-07:00Aug. 21, 2017 Part 2<p>What we saw <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="style" alt="Smile" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4v3jeJyf9-k/WZso2O6X8VI/AAAAAAAAL_c/x2ATZGhiO2oi6HsZhKYqN-cSqen-Aq8zACHMYCw/wlEmoticon-smile%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" /></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sAmvpaTcvtU/WZso2xxFVTI/AAAAAAAAL_g/mm0Vvqxi6Vw6S2JnBzrNjPjCAAHJSjv1ACHMYCw/s1600-h/eclipse%2B2017%255B3%255D"><img title="eclipse 2017" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" border="0" alt="eclipse 2017" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zRmK3fYVwQ8/WZso3ogRJkI/AAAAAAAAL_k/kAdXT494PXwXW6vVt1mW3IytFJ4VBVoFwCHMYCw/eclipse%2B2017_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="239" /></a></p> <p>Got colder.  Saw stars. Saw above with naked eye. Crescent shadows under trees before and after totality.  360 degree twilight.</p> <p>Pretty cool.  Very worth the effort to see.  There will be an even longer one in Northern California in a few years (decades).  Buy property in Susanville now.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-14096871971496658152017-08-21T09:01:00.001-07:002017-08-21T09:01:01.692-07:00Aug. 21, 2017 7:20am<h2>Waiting for Eclipse</h2> <p>After three great days at Yamsi Ranch visiting and helping with some projects we are now in the the RV park in the Benton County Fairgrounds in Corvallis,OR. There are probably several thousand people camped in and around this spot all waiting to experience a minute and twenty seconds of darkness.  Pretty peaceful and quiet here. Other parts of the state are much more zoo like.  Tens of thousands of people, gas and food shortages, clogged roads.  Sun is up and it looks like we should have a decent view right by the carbus.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-9018083699533220512016-09-20T16:40:00.001-07:002016-09-20T16:47:14.156-07:00Sept. 20, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Done – For Now</font></h2> <h4>142 days</h4> <h4>18,503.8 miles</h4> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XYJMzRF-va4/V-HJAAuGL4I/AAAAAAAAL60/K4S8WPgtz6g/s1600-h/20160919_172813%25255B1%25255D%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160919_172813[1]" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160919_172813[1]" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JSkq2T-_eYU/V-HJAkEwc1I/AAAAAAAAL64/tFj_KKlP6Ec/20160919_172813%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="240" /></a></p> <h3>Home <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Smile" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jQdb307EVtY/V-HJBPuIS2I/AAAAAAAAL68/rr_TWYw3Vs4/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" /></h3> <p>Map of trip:</p> <p><a title="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=12x4dHvzJbvb0UcaUtz2NjLNihZE" href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=12x4dHvzJbvb0UcaUtz2NjLNihZE">https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=12x4dHvzJbvb0UcaUtz2NjLNihZE</a></p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-3992278345361528582016-09-16T16:03:00.001-07:002016-09-16T16:03:41.698-07:00Sept. 16, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff"> Westward Ho!</font></h2> <p>Headed home through country we have been through several times.  Staying in parks we have been in before.  Re-seeing sights and sites.  Still very fun and beautiful.  Not my favorite to do interstates but there are no other options really where we are.  If you happen to be in eastern Utah sometime, I heartily recommend I 70. Take it from east to west.  Could be done as part of a visit to Moab area.  Take Utah 128 northeast from Moab to I 70.  Bit of misdirection but outstanding drive along the Colorado river through a spectacular canyon.  The drive west to Salina, UT is constantly changing wonderful landscapes.  Do it east to west for best views though.</p> <p>Tomorrow to Ely, NV and the day after to Reno and back into grandparent mode.  It has been a great trip.  Time to do some catching up and start dreaming on the next one.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-31806524606977408342016-09-13T14:14:00.001-07:002016-09-13T14:16:25.850-07:00Sept. 13, 2016<p> <h2> <p><font color="#0000ff">Storm</font></p> </h2> </p> <p>For the last two days the weather in Iowa and Kansas has been beautiful.  Temps in the 80’s and clear, totally cloudless skies.(And no humidity <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Smile" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SahsObqW4Pg/V9hsPeqFLEI/AAAAAAAAL6c/mAoxPJxIE2w/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" /> ).  News weather forecast last night hinted at very slight chance of isolated rain tomorrow (today) afternoon as a front moved through followed by clear and warm days.</p> <p>About midnight last night we heard distant thunder to the south west.  Thunder continued off and on for an hour or so.  Then it started to become more regular.  Still far away.  About 1:30 or 2:00 am it started to rain gently. Rain of varying intensity (never down pour rate) for a couple of hours with thunder more regular.  About 5am the lightning started accompanied by thunder very close and very loud. AND – very constant.  Several lightning/thunder episodes a minute.  At one point the lightning and thunder was literally every 5 seconds for several minutes. Forked and sheet lightning.  So bright it made night look like day.  So intense that even when the strike/flash was 8-10 miles away (per counting time between lightning and thunder) everything was bright as day.  This display continued for over 2 1/2 hours as cell after cell passed over us.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-X1JW_YIJdZ8/V9hsP5K7DPI/AAAAAAAAL6g/dHQpFxscMpE/s1600-h/Screenshot_2016-09-13-07-39-08%25255B1%25255D%25255B5%25255D.png"><img title="Screenshot_2016-09-13-07-39-08[1]" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Screenshot_2016-09-13-07-39-08[1]" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OYrEAMwjgAI/V9hsQUQPcOI/AAAAAAAAL6k/dqoEVWEG93U/Screenshot_2016-09-13-07-39-08%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B3%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="396" height="724" /></a></p> <p>Above is a screen shot from a radar app on my phone.  Several things to note:  First -This shot was taken late after things had started to wind down.  A bit earlier the storm band was solid (and wider) from lower left to upper right. Second – The blue dot in the lower left is our location. Third – this is a static shot and does not show the movement of the storm.  The storm moved from south west to north east basically along the line defined by the front instead of the whole front moving sideways. Forth – that storm is about 1000 miles long from end to end.  Fifth – Given our location and the direction of the storm movement a very large part of the storm passed directly over us for over seven hours.</p> <p>Pretty cool.</p> <p>Take weather forecasts with a grain of salt <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Smile" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SahsObqW4Pg/V9hsPeqFLEI/AAAAAAAAL6c/mAoxPJxIE2w/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" />.</p> <p>Updated map of this trip:</p> <p><a title="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=12x4dHvzJbvb0UcaUtz2NjLNihZE" href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=12x4dHvzJbvb0UcaUtz2NjLNihZE">https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=12x4dHvzJbvb0UcaUtz2NjLNihZE</a></p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-41103483099117946292016-09-12T18:18:00.001-07:002016-09-12T18:18:47.466-07:00Sept. 12, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Oz</font></h2> <p>The last couple of days we have been crossing the eastern part of the Great Plains.  Traveling Interstates where we had to but state and local roads where available. Much nicer way to travel.  The roads are good, the traffic is light, and the scenery is great.  Close up look at many sides of rural America.  Neat to see the transition of agricultural product and the change in the land as you move from east to west.</p> <p>One small irritation while driving.  Both days have been done in a steady head wind or cross wind of 20 mph or more.  Just have to be vigilant.</p> <p>Today we visited the Oz Museum in Wamego, KS.  Nice little town a few miles off the interstate in northeastern Kansas.  The museum has over 2000 items on display (out of over 8000 they own) dedicated to L. Frank Baum, and all things related to <em>The Wizard of Oz.  </em>There are several videos discussing the author, the story, the movie, and the place of all in Americana and world wide.</p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4Rx1e_qRah4/V9dT6Zi7qsI/AAAAAAAAL4w/lY7uNre0Jbw/s1600-h/20160912_134625%25255B1%25255D%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160912_134625[1]" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160912_134625[1]" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-44o7ciAteZo/V9dT7eBArzI/AAAAAAAAL40/7tIKqIEFH40/20160912_134625%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="322" height="578" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hZy9A2DA6_k/V9dT8hRNc3I/AAAAAAAAL44/LI5K9AVd2Us/s1600-h/20160912_140502%25255B1%25255D%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160912_140502[1]" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160912_140502[1]" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DiHSBRQ8nUQ/V9dT9v28PoI/AAAAAAAAL48/HOSsjgBGKOI/20160912_140502%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="288" height="523" /></a> <p>Shuttle from Oz to Kansas</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-18247326407526406322016-09-10T14:39:00.001-07:002016-09-10T14:39:52.118-07:00Sept. 10, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Amana Colonies</font></h2> <p>Last few days we have been taking a sleight detour on our way back west.  Went to a small town a little east of Iowa City.  Home of HWH Corporation.  They make leveling jack systems for motor homes. Also actuators for slide outs and other things.  About ten weeks ago one of our leveling jacks broke a retraction spring.  Replacing it on the road at a RV repair shop or even at home would be a challenge.  HWH makes many systems using several different springs.  Choosing the correct spring and then having it shipped to somewhere and then installing if in fact correct spring was chosen would be a large investment in time and possible $$$.  I figured that we would be in the same half of the country and when traveling from Florida, Iowa is not much out of the way, so why not go to the source to get the job done.  Exchanged a couple of emails and when we left Florida called to set up an appointment.  Very nice lady set up a time that we could make by traveling a little harder for a couple of days and would get us in before the weekend (and a two day layover in nowhere).  Got there a little before noon Friday.  Basically drove right in to repair bay.  Two hours later, including their lunch break, the springs on all four jacks were brand new (turned out two different springs were required) and the system was checked out as fully functional.  They only charged for a half hour of labor although he was working on coach over an hour.  Fast, friendly people, and the job done right with the right parts.  Good experience from start to finish.</p> <p>35 miles west of HWH is the Amana Colonies.  Group of small villages established by a religious group long ago.  Not Amish, Quaker, Mennonite, or other ‘name’ religious group.  One of the colonies is where the Amana appliances were developed and made.  Still are made there but are now part of Whirlpool company.  Although tourism is certainly a goal, the feel is more historical, educational, and hand made talent.  The colonies are home to a number of fine crafts.  Rug weaving, wood working, furniture making and repair, clock making, fine arts, quilting, wine making, craft brewing, year round live theater (non profit !!!) doing Broadway level productions, several very good restaurants (good hearty food served in a simple setting) at reasonable prices, museums, and more.  There is also a very large, very nice RV campground also very reasonably priced.  We stayed there and spent today touring much of the colonies.  Many of the establishments have craftsmen working in them during the week.  It was a weekend so we only saw a couple of spots with activity going on.  Visiting during the week would be a lot of fun.  Standing only a few feet from a loom weaving a rug for example or watching fine furniture being crafted from the shop floor.  We had a good day and saw lots of interesting things. </p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-63387427688224820382016-09-07T17:28:00.001-07:002016-09-07T17:51:24.983-07:00Sept. 7, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Helen Keller Birthplace</font></h2> <p>Last night we stayed in a RV park in Tuscumbia, AL. Happens to be the birthplace of Helen Keller.  This morning, before heading up the road, we visited the site.  Very nice!</p> <p>We went early and were the first visitors of the day. Received a very good talk and tour by the very nice docent.  She told the history of the house and grounds (nearly 200 years old and looks new) and a very good enlightenment on the lives of Helen Keller and her teacher Anne Sullivan.  </p> <p>On many tours we hve taken of historic places and homes the sites have been furnished with period era replacement items. Here, more than 85% of everything is original. Pictures, furniture, tableware, rugs, bedspreads (hand embroidered, pieced, and quilted crazy quilt that is the most impressive quilt I have ever seen), clothing, and much more. All the very items touched and used by Helen Keller and her family.</p> <p>Highly inspiring visit.  I recommend  anyone anywhere near this area go out of their way to visit this spot.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bi4uxdge-tA/V9CwayN1gbI/AAAAAAAAL3g/IHmJQcLRzoA/s1600-h/P1030869%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030869" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030869" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t-usWIwjbOo/V9CwblnQYUI/AAAAAAAAL3k/r1L1HLjWwIE/P1030869_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="476" height="366" /></a></p> <p>Clothes worn by Helen Keller and her mom.  Rug (hand woven) is a gift to Helen from a foreign country – don’t remember which.  Bedspread is a crazy quilt done by her aunt. It is amazing!  Sue has some close up pictures.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0hSM5BNCJXU/V9Cwcfv5FGI/AAAAAAAAL3o/eDABo5DUpIQ/s1600-h/P1030871%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030871" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030871" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3M0IvIgNp3c/V9Cwc4z2WLI/AAAAAAAAL3s/cMF6h5BblSU/P1030871_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="257" height="351" /></a></p> <p>See photo below.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-waVwHMOdqLc/V9Cwdmq45JI/AAAAAAAAL3w/U4efo1uqKQ4/s1600-h/P1030872%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030872" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030872" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bZFAmISV_Dk/V9CweZy6ipI/AAAAAAAAL30/5j5BuWREyU0/P1030872_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="349" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--rTOZiofEJg/V9Cwe3skuLI/AAAAAAAAL34/J2KZZ2btdA0/s1600-h/P1030873%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030873" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030873" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-66tMlAZv4Ig/V9CwgeLQ_xI/AAAAAAAAL38/UrLxmXJHAHY/P1030873_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="449" height="349" /></a></p> <p>Small cottage next to main house.  Originally used as an office but the Keller family lived in it for a while.  Actual birth place of Helen Keller.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LSKKEKz9PKU/V9Cwg-WPeDI/AAAAAAAAL4A/Lt8djnxlWwc/s1600-h/P1030874%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030874" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030874" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D0lHq2kGn0M/V9CwhhTLIgI/AAAAAAAAL4E/cl27Am3Uk1o/P1030874_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="479" height="368" /></a></p> <p>Room and possibly the bed where Helen Keller was born.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yU_KFD8JFzs/V9CwiGyaVwI/AAAAAAAAL4I/jDzJa-Oh67E/s1600-h/P1030876%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030876" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030876" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jZzVCdPzz5o/V9Cwi3Y0lrI/AAAAAAAAL4M/_GMp93S461o/P1030876_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="325" height="445" /></a></p> <p>The loblolly pine in the center background of this picture was grown from a seed that went to the moon and back.  The seedling was given to Ivy Green (name of Keller estate and grounds).  They call it the ‘moon pine’.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9SyW-rzZMIM/V9Cwjca3tkI/AAAAAAAAL4Q/QWCRd8moyKY/s1600-h/P1030877%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030877" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030877" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o1JtGk04Nwk/V9CwkJoiMvI/AAAAAAAAL4U/Ry3DYujKZ7Y/P1030877_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="451" height="610" /></a></p> <p>No comment needed</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q201Qqk7NaM/V9CwlMsBNsI/AAAAAAAAL4Y/WgeKA7KuyWI/s1600-h/P1030878%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030878" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030878" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cj20i0_WsSQ/V9Cwl4UYgBI/AAAAAAAAL4c/mZ5r762KLQ4/P1030878_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="453" height="348" /></a></p> <p>Stage near rear of property where productions of “The Miracle Worker’ are given every year.</p> <p> </p> <p>If any one is interested, here is a map of our trip so far.</p> <p><a title="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=12x4dHvzJbvb0UcaUtz2NjLNihZE" href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=12x4dHvzJbvb0UcaUtz2NjLNihZE">https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=12x4dHvzJbvb0UcaUtz2NjLNihZE</a></p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-62618220259854529732016-09-06T16:57:00.001-07:002016-09-06T16:57:22.671-07:00Sept. 6, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">U.S.Space & Rocket Center</font></h2> <p>Headed toward northwest Alabama.</p> <p>Stopped off in Huntsville at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.  Very cool place.  Most are more aware of the Kennedy Space Center and the Space Center in Houston. The displays and attractions in these places are more geared toward tourism and  entertainment. Huntsville is where all the research and testing of all phases in the development of rocketry was and is done.  Outstanding museums clearly explaining the evolution of rocketry and space travel from the German V2 to the Saturn V and beyond. The emphasis here is more toward education but done in a very fun way.  Lots of hands on and simulators and interest grabbing displays.  This is also the home of Space Camp.  Facilities we saw for that looked like it would be lots of fun.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1fU8cUs_zKY2fGxP__6VCZAAECVF44JkgcC_ZhXuDgoVE_dU9DqfVvifH9s_SF0xDs5Y5cIGh58acHx1sfJOYceq-xcKtTy3T6P0uBRjEk1ZmAJoreh3OgecMR7zOSZVPmBpNRWhjs4B/s1600-h/20160906_142818%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160906_142818" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160906_142818" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4cA9XtA9hjQ/V89X1x4GBWI/AAAAAAAAL2k/iFo2sDMj5Ck/20160906_142818_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="267" /></a></p> <p>Mockup used for size and weight testing</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G4La12ERMiA/V89X2VKFZ-I/AAAAAAAAL2o/mlOJ1xlySqg/s1600-h/20160906_124951%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160906_124951" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160906_124951" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uluc4UGBr9s/V89X2wlXWRI/AAAAAAAAL2s/ggqokVnn30w/20160906_124951_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="258" height="463" /></a></p> <p>Saturn I rocket.  Used to test many systems in preparation for development of Saturn V.  There is a Saturn V on display mounted horizontally in a huge museum building.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_NWcx8HteJY/V89X3PNzjuI/AAAAAAAAL2w/qcaAupG4jpw/s1600-h/20160906_113656%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160906_113656" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160906_113656" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VoPHJMSxjeY/V89X3rCe2cI/AAAAAAAAL20/L8vycNensxw/20160906_113656_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="234" height="420" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PNHdhVTAr_4/V89X39IsvoI/AAAAAAAAL24/r-4TggGbCnw/s1600-h/20160906_124954%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160906_124954" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160906_124954" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fLjPyzajTJM/V89X4b6zssI/AAAAAAAAL28/q0emXoqs6Bw/20160906_124954_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="347" height="203" /></a></p> <p>Lots of rockets and aircraft on display.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-43113701323392799022016-09-05T17:22:00.001-07:002016-09-05T17:22:32.537-07:00Sept. 5, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Tuskegee</font></h2> <p>We are now headed north in Alabama. Today we spent a couple hours touring the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site.  Very interesting.  Actual buildings - restored, rebuilt, of ‘ghosted’ – where Black pilots were trained during WW II.  Many displays, videos, and movies, inside and out, on the function of various locations on the site and on the many trials these men faced both in action and and at home.   Well worth a visit.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kuqfUS6vmPI/V84MQ3_Oa5I/AAAAAAAAL2I/kJXuIn6FQos/s1600-h/P1030865%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030865" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030865" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-la_7PeLrpXU/V84MRTU3MvI/AAAAAAAAL2M/hzQE2gpp0NI/P1030865_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="367" /></a></p> <p>Further north on US and state highways (avoiding freeways) through eastern Alabama.  Sue’s comment, ‘'Looks like rural America’'.  <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Smile" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o9WX_wI8y0g/V84MR1RPtCI/AAAAAAAAL2Q/vsYSkkM9E5g/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" /></p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-70691732347076503272016-09-03T15:12:00.001-07:002016-09-03T15:12:06.682-07:00Sept. 3, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">More On Storm</font></h2> <p>Yesterday I briefly mentioned what we saw of the storm.  Last night we watched several news broadcasts.  Evidently the strongest part of the storm went over Tallahassee.  Lots of falling tree damage to buildings and power.  Some beach washout.  This morning we drove about 40 miles into Tallahassee to get gas.  Along the way we saw occasional downed trees along the freeway.  Some from breakage and some from waterlogged roots.  Into town to go to Costco.  Went through several intersections with no traffic lights.  Got to Costco and things looked normal.  Gas station was open and a few people pumping gas.  Saw a number of gas containers being filled in addition to cars. Costco store was open but neighboring were dark.  After getting gas we went into Costco to get a couple of things.  Saw lots of shopping carts filled with ice and charcoal and restocking of both going on. Several people buying lanterns.  Recently set up aisle of portable generators for sale stacked two wide and about 40 long.  </p> <p>Costco was on aux. power.  Much of Tallahassee was with out power and predictions of repair were as far out as two weeks.</p> <p>Driving west of Tallahassee we saw some more wind damage and signs of lots of rain having fallen.</p> <p>North tomorrow.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-35125162608765204622016-09-02T12:58:00.001-07:002016-09-02T12:58:55.948-07:00Sept. 2, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">After the Storm</font></h2> <p>Last night, in Fort Wilderness campground we started getting light rain about 10pm. No wind or other storminess.  Rain continued much of the night.  Did not hear any wind but this morning everything was covered with dead pine needles. A few pine cones and small branches on the ground also.  Headed north expecting to see evidence of a major storm passing through several hours earlier.  Saw nothing other than very clean roads (washed by rain?). Wondered what campgrounds might be like in area of storm landfall which was a good break point for our day.  First one we called was in good shape except power in that area was out.  Second one we called had phone problems and we could not get through.  Went there any way to check.  They were open, had space, and had just got phone service.  Campground shows signs of big wind – lots of small tree branches on ground – but no sign of water damage or damage to structures.  Owner said she did not sleep much last night.  She is from Chicago and not familiar with violent storms.  Must have been pretty intense for a while. Right now the sun is out and temp is in 90’s.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-82386668270441584102016-09-01T18:25:00.001-07:002016-09-01T18:25:14.955-07:00Sept. 1, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Walt Disney World</font></h2> <p>No posts for last week.  No time to sit and compose. Six days of pretty much nonstop go from early morning until late night.  </p> <p>Tuesday while still in holding campground we drove to Disney Springs. Area of upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment.  Everything $$$ and more.  Parking is free though.  Left car and took shuttle bus to Polynesian Resort.  Had our first Dole Whip soft serve. Wandered the resort and then along the lake to Grand Floridian Resort.  Shuttle bus back to Disney Springs and car.</p> <p>Saturday morning we drove 25 miles to the Disney property and checked in to Fort Wilderness Campground.  Hooked up Carbus and then took a variety of transportation to do some exploring.  Campground bus to boat landing. Boat to Wilderness Lodge Resort. Explore Wilderness Lodge on foot.  Another boat to Contemporary Resort. Monorail to main transportation hub.  Bus to Animal Kingdom Lodge.  Explore satellite lodge on foot including viewing African animals on savanna.  Shuttle to main lodge for more exploring and animal viewing. Bus to Polynesian Resort.  Another Dole Whip (Yum!).  Monorail to Magic Kingdom  entrance area. Boat to Fort Wilderness. Campground shuttle bus to camp site.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cICSYuqqSIo/V8jUliJWCkI/AAAAAAAALxs/wJof8PydW1o/s1600-h/2016-08-27%252520%25252885%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-27 (85)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-27 (85)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-chgxUGyY9po/V8jUmOUQFdI/AAAAAAAALxw/qPqh2C82WiQ/2016-08-27%252520%25252885%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="430" height="244" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TJ_i1R78-Vw/V8jUmWfV81I/AAAAAAAALx0/z01edztxPjg/s1600-h/2016-08-27%252520%25252859%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-27 (59)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-27 (59)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nPU_lutJF_Q/V8jUmzHILHI/AAAAAAAALx4/JskPCnUT1nM/2016-08-27%252520%25252859%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="403" height="533" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-X9_um7YdAB0/V8jUnTZ8HqI/AAAAAAAALx8/UEtbisriAus/s1600-h/2016-08-27%252520%25252873%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-27 (73)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-27 (73)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HTEhoaZNLUA/V8jUnjfKLbI/AAAAAAAALyA/ayg9Nwdsv1o/2016-08-27%252520%25252873%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="421" height="315" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z_f1Vc98xRU/V8jUu-f_2_I/AAAAAAAALyE/pC9SxqljXRg/s1600-h/2016-08-27%252520%25252882%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-27 (82)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-27 (82)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pg8GCkWAR8o/V8jUvfwCpxI/AAAAAAAALyI/htEPinvOA6Y/2016-08-27%252520%25252882%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="406" height="452" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hm9gg9rXPNs/V8jUvrbD49I/AAAAAAAALyM/rScIQH50od0/s1600-h/2016-08-27%252520%25252884%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-27 (84)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-27 (84)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vSeb6OjtN5g/V8jUwF5qL9I/AAAAAAAALyQ/RJ8xJk-m5QU/2016-08-27%252520%25252884%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="397" height="467" /></a></p> <p>Sunday we drove car to Animal Kingdom Park.  Staying at a Disney resort comes with free parking throughout the property. IF parking is free, personal car is most time efficient way to get around.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_ceQNZrzZSc/V8jUwYe1D6I/AAAAAAAALyU/W1HJPAqmRxg/s1600-h/2016-08-28%252520%2525281%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-28 (1)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-28 (1)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M4ojF7BlZGE/V8jUw_D7q4I/AAAAAAAALyY/1ZY6ldVI95w/2016-08-28%252520%2525281%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="406" height="182" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmx5ukej2eNZZfQ5lG_xSzfwBsQ_SeRDFHNpMbDNRUfTzb-Mn349LT6RV-FPEWSor7Jpdny0BwUnCKJEJuSrQiY9uADUWwDIWzdokL9ug1t5y4lEjM34gs-BxAf27kKIwbc2WInPlFP4Kg/s1600-h/2016-08-28%252520%25252832%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-28 (32)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-28 (32)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-x9Qvgj5Pb3U/V8jUxe7-xkI/AAAAAAAALyg/0sXVkL8sXRs/2016-08-28%252520%25252832%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="401" height="332" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Pn2tQzwqObU/V8jUx5A6puI/AAAAAAAALyk/AOWMMyxjvZY/s1600-h/2016-08-28%252520%25252880%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-28 (80)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-28 (80)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Bei5oX06H4I/V8jUyC3a42I/AAAAAAAALyo/Ll8t0tznOwA/2016-08-28%252520%25252880%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="393" height="336" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A36k4bUxKV8/V8jUyU543MI/AAAAAAAALys/Mruj59OWJbA/s1600-h/2016-08-28%252520%25252898%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-28 (98)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-28 (98)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VJSb7FRm_bs/V8jUy6TKmcI/AAAAAAAALyw/IHr1TFGlVOM/2016-08-28%252520%25252898%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="146" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xv0YxgJASMU/V8jUzclFmcI/AAAAAAAALy0/raKiAGXcKyE/s1600-h/2016-08-28%252520%252528157%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-28 (157)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-28 (157)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1xkXG6OJ6Yg/V8jUz080yZI/AAAAAAAALy4/Uo6NeOFqLRA/2016-08-28%252520%252528157%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="439" height="417" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tPu_3adn1FI/V8jU0Wd1A_I/AAAAAAAALy8/1uxpten3iq4/s1600-h/2016-08-28%252520%252528168%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-28 (168)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-28 (168)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NFXod3X20y0/V8jU02SkKcI/AAAAAAAALzA/iMMbHXPb7-E/2016-08-28%252520%252528168%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="333" /></a></p> <p>Monday we drove to EPCOT.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uTqgQCHUq5Y/V8jU1XI4QsI/AAAAAAAALzE/aihBGWSKgBE/s1600-h/2016-08-29%252520%25252818%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-29 (18)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-29 (18)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VlP7a4SCDdg/V8jU1sD5JJI/AAAAAAAALzI/wkzViiP7h2A/2016-08-29%252520%25252818%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="439" height="388" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAFPvpYVaCjVeSQ1l9aAP-2qjMGG-dbKaasKWcaZ0qqSYdGIe3xcKKNXJlOCu0iSSPUOKfdnCHuwu3awWpRIhHP1Kfv5dbSqUTjP0KnuBRqoUEZqQkWy3diX4DDUQj3TpJ1M3aP4CLUruI/s1600-h/2016-08-29%252520%25252866%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-29 (66)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-29 (66)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9d1TO9Hh9rk/V8jU2dvLLOI/AAAAAAAALzQ/BtKhRc_CSHs/2016-08-29%252520%25252866%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="405" height="472" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Tuesday we drove to Hollywood Studios.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FILhZFXAvjI/V8jU2x7K7qI/AAAAAAAALzU/Y5mxjAmdsOA/s1600-h/2016-08-30%252520%25252830%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-30 (30)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-30 (30)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dXUo5Z0tR7s/V8jU3epkKqI/AAAAAAAALzY/ZBmZ5lPea3w/2016-08-30%252520%25252830%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="393" height="427" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B88UtBSYJIA/V8jU3nPTT2I/AAAAAAAALzc/axCJlyxbfMc/s1600-h/2016-08-30%252520%25252834%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-30 (34)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-30 (34)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6WGpOINuY94/V8jU4LaaDeI/AAAAAAAALzg/btA83z1sblE/2016-08-30%252520%25252834%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" height="235" /></a></p> <p>“Frozen” sing along.  This was fun show</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iWCKPZd4VBA/V8jU4VcP7MI/AAAAAAAALzk/Asf60ZwVGH8/s1600-h/2016-08-30%252520%25252856%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-30 (56)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-30 (56)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RElIwk3_uVE/V8jU44uNo7I/AAAAAAAALzo/Dmu2eSGtO2w/2016-08-30%252520%25252856%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="405" height="431" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Wednesday we drove to Magic Kingdom.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BAul9Bebf9Q/V8jU5JZ0_1I/AAAAAAAALzs/62LG10m4S4I/s1600-h/2016-08-31%252520%252528119%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-31 (119)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-31 (119)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6hxhOQxjXtFgk2rEFfxabl7NQzw2TDwcmeCBATnLxT_tCMAVhRKRkDs2kErbYAbJt7Vpqa7JMrrbgjWdP7nRVK3K9PFQcTnno6p2N_Tks-QDrsNKeM5gK7zzFMcvQKfaucnebKxaePhuc/?imgmax=800" width="541" height="272" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zpk_C6d6eyQ/V8jU59qCpaI/AAAAAAAALz0/8jobxQjGVoQ/s1600-h/2016-08-31%252520%2525283%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-31 (3)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-31 (3)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIMhxumZheCmc2lfKKhKSI0s3dYTAnrZwJrqF9s1dozwbAKeoN6rBi_-nB_LpX5Bb25_cdTHILxNHo6N0IQfVwvZWQyC8iUQPqFMJRaSwFv1ArJ7G5WWEPVBMVedB1a2qOlGRJILaAYEL/?imgmax=800" width="409" height="535" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2cbbo5xUiRY/V8jU6mkSI6I/AAAAAAAALz8/5UL7nkeH_mg/s1600-h/2016-08-31%252520%25252813%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-31 (13)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-31 (13)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tooLqMm2aUE/V8jU626juwI/AAAAAAAAL0A/7Lav72DKMl4/2016-08-31%252520%25252813%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="432" height="207" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UxEAb5z7aSo/V8jU7QF_GPI/AAAAAAAAL0E/yvQ3xsmggl4/s1600-h/2016-08-31%252520%25252847%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-31 (47)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-31 (47)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5y1n8bjSh5k/V8jU7_qWGfI/AAAAAAAAL0I/r9u6zkZU-fA/2016-08-31%252520%25252847%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="430" height="434" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ePSEoB34bT0/V8jU8EHtgaI/AAAAAAAAL0M/opxW7mK9tZs/s1600-h/2016-08-31%252520%25252848%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-31 (48)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-31 (48)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6e1qnvn1peI/V8jU8iSFoMI/AAAAAAAAL0Q/EIVWYxsRU5g/2016-08-31%252520%25252848%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="403" height="535" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8uyVVtSv_cU/V8jU9G0D-RI/AAAAAAAAL0U/Ve9JYY3VQus/s1600-h/2016-08-31%252520%25252852%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-31 (52)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-31 (52)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4FziqJ4RIXY/V8jU9cUgnJI/AAAAAAAAL0Y/KhJ-pPs1oWU/2016-08-31%252520%25252852%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="496" height="371" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLAT2CGXKyoJjr4zBJPRX2DibSyhE5n6M3og8Z9uP_sbjJOg8mzWZj7g9DDdPxN1rmwplpqKtXc9-qdTfrp9EHW31YzGvr1ir3gTq1RhJiEcr88f7BtyPyNNaISOF7m16rcDYVV_gyUpka/s1600-h/2016-08-31%252520%252528104%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-31 (104)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-31 (104)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AOnNwIqfjq8/V8jU-dKj7wI/AAAAAAAAL0g/7qfSBCes1DU/2016-08-31%252520%252528104%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="359" height="566" /></a></p> <p>Thursday we took a variety of Disney transportation  to visit EPCOT and then Hollywood Studios using the boat canal between the two parks. Bus to Polynesian. Another Dole Whip  <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Smile" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EablpzMyNJ0/V8jU-aN_2kI/AAAAAAAAL0k/UKgtzD36dxI/wlEmoticon-smile2.png?imgmax=800" />.  Monorail to Magic Kingdom.  Boat to Fort Wilderness.</p> <p>Good week!  We saw and/or did every thing we wanted to in each park.  Thanks to Julie we had rough itineraries for each park and Fast Passes in place for the most impacted attractions.  As it turned out we only used three or four Fast Passes over the whole five days though we had three preset for each day. Combination of early start, efficient approach plan for each park, smaller crowds the last couple of days, and occasional luck. We had a couple of 30 minute waits but everything else was much shorter if at all.  Pretty much we did not stop moving all day, every day.  Will take a few days for us to recharge.</p> <p> </p> <p>Will try to add a few more pictures and maybe some daily description later.</p> <p><img alt="" src="https://scontent-mia1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14212653_10207580826544084_1531987868542892823_n.jpg?oh=7cdf4491812000ea8750a4444c05448b&oe=584A6ADB" width="463" height="262" /></p> <p>Dole Whip. Best soft serve ever.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-10594392418164110312016-08-25T09:12:00.001-07:002016-08-25T09:12:31.327-07:00Aug. 26, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Disney Warmup</font></h2> <p>This week we are located in a Snowbird park about 15 miles south of Disney World.  Large park (very large) pretty much filled with ‘mobile’ homes (most of them now have roots) with a scattering of spaces for RVs.  Very nice place with lots of activity facilities.  Must really hum in the winter.</p> <p>Monday we drove up I 4 through Orlando to Sanford, FL.  Home of Boss Laser.  Birthplace of my laser machine.  Spent over an hour with a sales rep. No sales talk.  Just tips and techniques for using my machine and possible resources.  Showed us the assembly warehouse where I saw several of my model machines as well as some very large (work beds larger than a sheet of plywood) models.  I doubt any of you are looking for a laser cutter/engraver but if you are I don’t think you can go wrong with Boss Laser.  The machines are built in America with a mixture of American made and high quality imported parts.  Packaging and shipping are outstanding.  My large heavy machine was snugly secured in a wooden crate and traveled 3500 miles without a scratch and worked out of the box.  Support is the best I have ever seen anywhere on any product or service.  Questions or issues are addressed quickly and dealt with rapidly.  By text, over the phone (instant software fix and setup tweak) or by next day mail if needed.  Every contact with every individual (from receptionist to sales to head of tech support) by phone, email, and now in person has been pleasant, supportive, and productive.  They are interested in you and happy to be of help. </p> <p>Tuesday we went to Disney Springs.  Formerly Downtown Disney. Expanded, upgraded, etc. Still geared to upscale shopping but does have attractions, food, and entertainment.  Each individually priced.  Disney Springs is a major hub for the Disney bus system.  We took a bus (free) to the Polynesian Resort (by way of Typhoon Lagoon). Quest, in addition to seeing the grounds, was to get a Dole Whip. Found the Pineapple Lanai, literally a hole in the wall window serving one item.  Only other place to get Dole Whip is in Magic Kingdom which we couldn’t go to ‘till next week.  Got cups of Dole Whip, pineapple soft serve, and sat in hotel lobby eating ice cream, watching people and using Disney internet on our phones.  Walked from Polynesian to Grand Floridian along the lake shore.  Passed the hotel pools and water parks, the wedding chapel on the lake, and the resort beaches. Including the beach where an alligator grabbed a small child recently.  The beaches no longer go to the water.  There is a fence and between the fence and the water is a ten foot zone of coarse rock breakwater.   The effect is a very difficult area to traverse.  Nothing short of a tank could cross it let alone an alligator.  There are now signs mentioning alligators but they are small, low key, and easy to over look.  The state park we stayed in with alligators in pond had huge signs with easy to read and understand wordage. I know Disney doesn’t want to scare its’ guests but minimalizing warnings seems poor.  Back on a bus to car at Disney Springs (free parking) and then home to Carbus.</p> <p>Wednesday – early drive to Universal Studios.  Good close up parking in garage, quick visit to will call kiosk, brisk walk to back of Universal Studios park and into Diagon Alley.  Walked right on to Harry Potter ride. After ride we walked the Potter area, visited shops, and had a Butter Beer (Sue regular, me frozen).  Then to train (going through wall) to Hogwarts area of Islands of Adventure park.  Again walked right on Potter ride.  Then walked Hogwarts area and shops.  Walked around rest of Islands of Adventure park. Much of it is geared to young kids or enormous coasters.  We were about to go on Jurassic Park ride when it was closed down because of weather.  Walked back to Hogwarts and took train back to other park.  Still raining so had lunch at Leaky Cauldron in Potter area. Supposed to be something ‘to do’.  It was ok.  A bit pricy but I guess some of the price is the experience.  Dessert was ice cream from the ice cream shop (next to the butter beer shop).  That would be a fun place to go back to.  Lots of different and very intriguing flavors.  Left the Potter area and walked through the rest of the Universal Studios park.  This is the original park.  Took several rides in that park.  Back to Potter area to take train again (10 min wait this time).  Over to Jurassic Park ride.  30 minute wait but fun ride.  Back on train.  Another butter bear(both frozen) and then walk to park exit.  On the way out we came face to face with a parade headed our way.  Stood on sidewalk and watched parade/show.  Large floats, costumed characters, performers, etc. The parade stops and the entire cast does a dance routine.  Interesting to see three blocks of dancers lined up doing the same dance routine.  Somehow dancing Minions and cartoon fish didn’t quite do it for me though.  Finished our exit and back to car.  Judging by vacancies in garage, our day out lasted many who came after us.</p> <p>Two more days for rest up, laundry, etc. and then we start our Disney Experience.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-57495161832688647792016-08-20T13:23:00.001-07:002016-08-20T13:23:32.267-07:00Aug. 20, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Marking Time on the West Coast</font></h2> <p>The last few days we have been slowly working up the west coast of Florida, marking time prior to heading inland.</p> <p>Mostly just sight seeing.  Like the Atlantic side, the Gulf side of southern Florida is pretty well developed non-stop.  There is an ocean but seeing it is difficult.  Homes and hotels on just about all the beach front.  Where there is a narrow access path there is no parking for blocks, if at all.  We did find one very nice public beach with good parking on the southern tip of Anna Maria island.  Mid-week, off season so not crowded.  </p> <p>Went to DeSoto National Historic Site.  Interesting to learn about him and his quest.  </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_bL0bIHsKp8/V7i8ODc4P1I/AAAAAAAALxI/VQvi7qqv_bQ/s1600-h/20160817_133810%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160817_133810" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160817_133810" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--ML5BzZHHOE/V7i8OicFQRI/AAAAAAAALxM/cIqVdFi6a1U/20160817_133810_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="462" height="274" /></a></p> <p>This tree is outside visitor center.  A Gum tree.  It is in crisis.  It has lived well beyond the normal time for that species.</p> <p>Today we went to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.  Long time tourist attraction now owned and run by the state of Florida.  Fun place.  Two sides to it. One side is a waterpark with slides, pools, playgrounds, volleyball courts, lots of lawn space.  Very well attended by families with kids of all ages.  The other side has three attractions/shows and space for functions.  One show is an animal (actually reptile) demonstration.  Brief, up close introduction to several different reptiles. Second attraction is a boat ride down the out flow river from the springs.  Short trip on the meandering, jungle like river to see some wild life and nature.  Third attraction is the Mermaid Show.  Under water theater where ‘real’ mermaids perform for about 45 minutes.  Fun show.  Well choreographed and performed.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CnJDFhlyRcs/V7i8POxklWI/AAAAAAAALxQ/16HaWcjbv1U/s1600-h/20160820_101726%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160820_101726" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160820_101726" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6tRT9_jWg8o/V7i8PrGd5pI/AAAAAAAALxU/wJDFu1rjQjk/20160820_101726_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="433" height="252" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-swWMRs16cQo/V7i8QNup6dI/AAAAAAAALxY/cNMAprafrZ4/s1600-h/20160820_123542%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160820_123542" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160820_123542" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ICu-WfuUQnk/V7i8Qo-JHJI/AAAAAAAALxc/qBh19bCHEus/20160820_123542_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="439" height="256" /></a></p> <p>Stand in.</p> <p>Tomorrow we head inland.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-88030347144031340332016-08-15T15:12:00.001-07:002016-08-15T15:12:52.281-07:00August 15, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Leaving Everglades</font></h2> <p>After dinner last night we took a stroll around the pond in front of our campsite.  Met this guy.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xL4cDube5kE/V7I-Ox10QkI/AAAAAAAALv8/rn7jXtsqBzQ/s1600-h/20160814_191712%25255B1%25255D%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160814_191712[1]" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160814_191712[1]" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ccuGphbJxiw/V7I-PeJY6yI/AAAAAAAALwA/gBQWgfZGZBc/20160814_191712%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="435" height="254" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OPz52jQjwLw/V7I-QA3NV4I/AAAAAAAALwE/Apt71sTbd1E/s1600-h/20160814_191746%25255B1%25255D%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160814_191746[1]" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160814_191746[1]" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4HUdHTZ-cVc/V7I-Qxz-i1I/AAAAAAAALwI/-Ind6BP6PB8/20160814_191746%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="428" height="250" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sbq2g7dxXvU/V7I-RvR5xRI/AAAAAAAALwM/x1Ts_YjfrBg/s1600-h/20160814_191858%25255B1%25255D%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20160814_191858[1]" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20160814_191858[1]" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fLj2HBii_8M/V7I-SE4qsCI/AAAAAAAALwQ/ViftbdvOLqo/20160814_191858%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="439" height="256" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>In the Everglades there is a plant called the Strangler Grape.   Seeds of the grape take root in the bark of trees deposited by birds or wind.  </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ndO_SeFhWuQ/V7I-Tkm_aXI/AAAAAAAALwU/EOTG4JACE_4/s1600-h/P1030724%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030724" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030724" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xIKN4FK1_NM/V7I-UfYkTeI/AAAAAAAALwY/6sfM1bJsvB4/P1030724_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="448" height="344" /></a></p> <p>Young Strangler Grape (broad leaves) attached to Palm.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mDhaqBWWKGg/V7I-U45WpQI/AAAAAAAALwc/5ddSx_BiwpY/s1600-h/P1030725%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030725" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030725" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-06D2b2LXxok/V7I-VlefgII/AAAAAAAALwg/JENAhBOrfJ4/P1030725_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="403" height="551" /></a></p> <p>The grape sends roots down the host tree to the ground.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sEfB9XE_-8Y/V7I-WWsH8tI/AAAAAAAALwk/rSTcPddHg2M/s1600-h/P1030726%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030726" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030726" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xx6CqaSNpt4/V7I-W9-P1kI/AAAAAAAALwo/WiCvj2spwv8/P1030726_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="461" height="629" /></a></p> <p>The roots of the grape spread and expand around the trunk of the host tree eventually surrounding the trunk.  We saw trees with trunks completely surrounded and covered by thick Strangler Grape roots.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7eZAcfxsD20/V7I-XKitdyI/AAAAAAAALws/o34rEDi1SWA/s1600-h/2016-08-12%252520%252528103%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="2016-08-12 (103)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-08-12 (103)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ir-ctOVeWK8/V7I-X-buEII/AAAAAAAALww/ciI85IWfXuE/2016-08-12%252520%252528103%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" height="483" /></a></p> <p>Only time the carbus has briefly dropped into low gear was over Monarch Pass at 11,312 feet.  Handled the one above with out any problem.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CyG16D0BH1I/V7I-YbdXLkI/AAAAAAAALw0/iFsw2X7odqI/s1600-h/Ochopee%252520Post%252520Office%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Ochopee Post Office" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Ochopee Post Office" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ru2xkY2MJ8w/V7I-YznL_XI/AAAAAAAALw4/Gfa6THB3xho/Ochopee%252520Post%252520Office_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="435" height="450" /></a></p> <p>Smallest post office in the United States. 8’x8’.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>On to the west coast of Florida.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-85915779402098910922016-08-15T14:18:00.001-07:002016-08-15T14:18:18.521-07:00August 14, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Big Cypress & Everglades</font></h2> <p>Last night we had a spectacular light show.  180 degree panorama of almost non-stop lightning – both sheet and forked.</p> <p>Hope this video works:</p> <p><a title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKdpdaCt1E4&feature=em-share_video_user" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKdpdaCt1E4&feature=em-share_video_user">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKdpdaCt1E4&feature=em-share_video_user</a></p> <p> </p> <p>Started the day with a drive along a dirt back road through Big Cypress.  Have to go slow at the right places and keep your eyes open.  Might be rewarded.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zZ6JmNoRFSs/V7IwtkwBqFI/AAAAAAAALuw/LVMm3M6S7Ts/s1600-h/P10307064.jpg"><img title="P1030706" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030706" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kcdUzQlKHrg/V7IwuztxUVI/AAAAAAAALu0/CwHbuBB_zlo/P1030706_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="321" height="434" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sWh7_4ufRF8/V7Iw5JKfewI/AAAAAAAALu4/q-Rgb74Nt8c/s1600-h/P10307094.jpg"><img title="P1030709" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030709" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ryhxZ56A-KM/V7IxAi6XAFI/AAAAAAAALu8/JktKTPqwIWg/P1030709_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="329" height="253" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GNRUlKsjL2M/V7IxFUf8QeI/AAAAAAAALvA/sV-1Gj0BIpk/s1600-h/P10307104.jpg"><img title="P1030710" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030710" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WPsBKbve_-U/V7IxHa0wBaI/AAAAAAAALvE/_5TnJsIYObc/P1030710_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="339" height="261" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N2TEAOWL5XA/V7IxPN-mzcI/AAAAAAAALvI/MbO06iFlrBY/s1600-h/P10307134.jpg"><img title="P1030713" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030713" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vUeNETxfjmk/V7IxQjGtH9I/AAAAAAAALvM/oiMpxt5tbL0/P1030713_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="348" height="268" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-McuH0XWRgm8/V7IxVXYwBeI/AAAAAAAALvQ/E4XZUKABaW0/s1600-h/P10307144.jpg"><img title="P1030714" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030714" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t5QCeIF5OcU/V7IxYOXgiLI/AAAAAAAALvU/z_iTaJZx5KM/P1030714_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="349" height="268" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZNSjpRWNNVo/V7Ixfctre7I/AAAAAAAALvY/tq6fWhmFrNM/s1600-h/P10307164.jpg"><img title="P1030716" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030716" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hNcpo_Pif1A/V7IxgFLzsgI/AAAAAAAALvc/FXhmLRi1RrQ/P1030716_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="368" height="283" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>After the drive through Big Cypress on to Everglades again.  Took tram tour to overlook tower.  See any swamps?</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CVy7g9a6smU/V7IxknU2hKI/AAAAAAAALvg/4K0JPHglWzI/s1600-h/P10307194.jpg"><img title="P1030719" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030719" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB391eH_peYVd2PsduC2WMmwVfNs1N3Aegk7uEoslYHhCQ7IBE6OuZFKN0UdMgbwtai_jqWMY7atok0GAgac9UcLVEofTBOQWzHbAjrC5bcaBus2T5XaqQM9S3rXIKIvaG6ueKNRzwJZe8/?imgmax=800" width="411" height="316" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yWIvk03JFog/V7Ixl0tmgcI/AAAAAAAALvo/aKAHyBIe4gA/s1600-h/P10307204.jpg"><img title="P1030720" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030720" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YAI0oTOklyg/V7IxmY2MzmI/AAAAAAAALvs/rINS04JzjDY/P1030720_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="318" height="430" /></a></p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-44279538635566630922016-08-15T13:22:00.001-07:002016-08-15T13:22:24.472-07:00August 13, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Everglades National Park &</font></h2> <h2><font color="#0000ff">Big Cypress National Preserve</font></h2> <p>Yesterday we toured Everglades NP.  Drove the whole 38 mile length of the park road to the Flamingo visitor center on the shore of the gulf.  Took the concession boat tour at this point.  A bit disappointing.  The ‘Captain’ giving the tour and his one man ‘crew’ had no enthusiasm.  Both were rather robotic.  Information was presented but felt like it was totally scripted.  They put in their time and pointed out (not very distinctly) some sights but a movie might have been better.  Don’t think anyone left the boat feeling better for having taken it.  We (some of us) did see a baby crocodile. </p> <p>Along our drive we stopped at several informative walks.  Interesting to see the different types of vegetation areas differing in elevation by just inches.  None of these areas is swamp as many believe the Everglades to be.  Grassy river and cypress hammocks prevail. </p> <p> </p> <p>Today we drove to a campground in the heart of Big Cypress National Preserve.  From there to visitor center for some orientation and then to western edge of the preserve to Everglade City.  In Everglade city we took an airboat tour through the mangrove rivers.  Had not been on an airboat before.  Fun ride.  Felt much like our jet boat but more responsive at slower speeds.  Our ‘Captain’ was enthusiastic, talkative, and informative.  Looked very hard to find wildlife and at the same time give an enjoyable ride.  We saw (within feet) alligators, raccoons, and a mother and baby dolphin swimming through the harbor.  </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eiO7ZCTYe4s/V7IkXzE0ECI/AAAAAAAALtk/WBxNbbvYRfk/s1600-h/P10306904.jpg"><img title="P1030690" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030690" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-llXQBeOAnf4/V7IkYTsjWFI/AAAAAAAALto/ul2nmFhgg3I/P1030690_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="401" height="308" /></a></p> <p>View from front seat of air boat.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YyDgQBK-M28/V7IkZPn-LNI/AAAAAAAALts/_jUadskr73s/s1600-h/P10306914.jpg"><img title="P1030691" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030691" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0tIfhwsAPDw/V7IkZWe2lHI/AAAAAAAALtw/TJUbepZhUoA/P1030691_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="408" height="314" /></a></p> <p>Hard to see but he sees you.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sHGPz-Tfri4/V7IkaZQouCI/AAAAAAAALt0/lYfufvT8Fhg/s1600-h/P10306945.jpg"><img title="P1030694" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030694" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PQ0p4bGyjMA/V7IkagO7koI/AAAAAAAALt4/P6l_neZXDTQ/P1030694_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="407" height="318" /></a></p> <p>Hanging out in tree next to river.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7BvvBO5Q68A/V7IkbLTQxsI/AAAAAAAALt8/GCPTD2OGkMo/s1600-h/P10306994.jpg"><img title="P1030699" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030699" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G61oPlfkwZ4/V7IkblCCUTI/AAAAAAAALuA/X0qAnuTMwqc/P1030699_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="423" height="325" /></a></p> <p>Getting a closer look at the river.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>There are several walks and some drives in the preserve.  Also tours led by the Seminoles.  Took one walk on a boardwalk that passes through several vegetation areas along it’s  half mile length and really gives you the feel of being totally surrounded by nature. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K7izthS_flw/V7Ikb1XMUBI/AAAAAAAALuE/ZGKa5fPNqWc/s1600-h/P10306794.jpg"><img title="P1030679" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030679" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9J3FTookXbk/V7Ikca4uFSI/AAAAAAAALuI/nafV2PuMCRw/P1030679_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="443" height="341" /></a></p> <p>This guy was in canal next to visitor center.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j9FLaLGfmI8/V7IkcyczPSI/AAAAAAAALuM/lLZOBAsfzDM/s1600-h/P10306804.jpg"><img title="P1030680" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030680" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2cFI3sNT-Ls/V7IkdUXQkgI/AAAAAAAALuQ/mXYFs_owD6I/P1030680_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="423" height="325" /></a></p> <p>These kids have been doing Jr. Ranger programs all across the US.  Hats and vests were covered with awards from 49 parks and monuments.  Great educational experience!</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GJ0I2SMHXuU/V7IkeZTEcLI/AAAAAAAALuU/QAtRszbGtsY/s1600-h/P10306834.jpg"><img title="P1030683" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030683" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-msj4nr_Wshw/V7Ike1nLp5I/AAAAAAAALuY/EQMziL5Rg_o/P1030683_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="448" height="344" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jkrsXAndY3A/V7IkfX7RpUI/AAAAAAAALuc/x4T4T2tqY6Y/s1600-h/P10306864.jpg"><img title="P1030686" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030686" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IMoeX3EMt9A/V7IkfxnrPpI/AAAAAAAALug/mwW8RuTqqyw/P1030686_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="507" /></a></p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-76288772542289214222016-08-11T17:01:00.001-07:002016-08-11T17:01:44.811-07:00August 11, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Fruit & Spice Park</font></h2> <p>Short drive of a couple of hours up the northern half of the Keys and on to the mainland at Homestead, FL.  Got situated and connected and then looked for something to do for the afternoon.  Came across a reference to the Fruit & Spice Park.  Part of the Miami/Dade County park system the park is a unique 35 acre display of tropical and subtropical plants from around the world.  Visitors are invited to taste their way through ripe displays.  The office/store/visitor center has samples of 10-12 different exotic fruits cut up for sampling. There are hundreds of different fruits.  Visitors are welcome to wander the park looking at all the different trees and plants and to sample any fruit that is on the ground.  Couple of rules:  fruit can not be picked from frees and you must know what you are eating.  That is important because some fruits are hazardous.  The wandering approach would be difficult and frustrating as the hundreds of trees and plants are planted in an apparent random park like fashion with little organization.  Each plant is identified but there are so many that posted  information about each would be impossible.  There is an organization to the park layout but a novice would not recognize it.  There is an alternative to wandering on foot.  They have a tram tour.  Great tour.  Covers the whole park with full time narration by driver.  Describing nearly every tree passed.  Complete description of fruits and other useful parts.  How fruits are used. Tastes. Much more.  And yes, there is an organization to layout of park.  Different areas have plants common to different parts of the world.  Driver was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.  She stopped several times and gathered fruit (she picked it from the trees – she worked there, she’s allowed) and gave us all a taste sample. Tour was supposed to be 45 minutes – took nearly 1 1/4 hours and might have gone longer but had to get back for next tour.  Learned a great deal that would not have happened if we just wandered.  At end of tour she gave us some Moringa Tree seeds.  Just about every part of this tree can be eaten and it is loaded with nutrients.  Buying the processed plant through health food stores, etc. can be pricey.  Looking forward to trying to grow a tree when we get home.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-27927839784916699382016-08-10T16:25:00.001-07:002016-08-10T16:41:20.846-07:00August 10, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Key West</font></h2> <p>Drove to Marathon, FL yesterday.  Half way down Florida Keys and location of RV park with decent price (for the Keys).  Today we drove another 50+ miles to Key West.  Old (historic) Key West is a grid of very narrow streets, little to no parking ($$-$$$ where available), lots of bicycles,  even more tourists, many cars and even large trucks,  trolleys, and tourist attractions and shops of all kinds.  There are a number of museums and historical spots but most have gone commercial and if you do want to visit them there is no parking near them.  We opted to take another Home Town Trolley tour so we didn’t have to deal with traffic and got to at least see (if not visit) many interesting spots and get an informative narration of what we were seeing.  Not a place we would chose to spend a vacation but many do.  The whole length of the Florida Keys is a mixture of water related tourist activities. Fishing, diving, snorkeling, jet skis, kayaks, tour boats and helicopters, restaurants, museums, etc., etc. Occasional communities with ‘normal’ retail.  The lone road that traverses the Keys is pretty filled both ways with traffic.  Must be quite interesting if there is a mandatory hurricane evacuation.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aejc5BTf04k/V6u3uNBP-_I/AAAAAAAALq4/7VKgRV7tc5Q/s1600-h/P1030659%25255B5%25255D%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030659" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030659" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xY8muck2r10/V6u3uqjyymI/AAAAAAAALq8/SpvYQXRsUjk/P1030659%25255B5%25255D_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0t4sykBSYJk/V6u3vJXOegI/AAAAAAAALrA/XbEdhbx5L9g/s1600-h/P1210672%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1210672" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1210672" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5iM91OIrMPQ/V6u3vk-8oUI/AAAAAAAALrE/5K6t4Ob_q7g/P1210672_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="551" height="428" /></a></p> <p>As with much of south Florida, Key West has a huge historical and cultural tie to Cuba.  Chickens are a large part of Cuban culture where they run free.  That bit of culture was transported to Key West.  For some reason the chickens became protected.  Killing them is a $500 fine.  They are everywhere.  We saw roosters, hens, and chicks of all sizes all over the city.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8ySL27lSsD8/V6u3wJ5-WLI/AAAAAAAALrI/9ohTnsJwwD8/s1600-h/P1210701%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1210701" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1210701" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNsVJcHRRjY1CHvnhm3iwGFxFk6k5kE_dO5fmyZ2BAFXCVjhC4PL-cr37nuihMV2aaZEFMQWe7YRsBx9Lj63bX1RmTR6yRz_XxrFbQL9WQFxGGEbHLJNwFBoDlTtrstOpVpNLOMRptvXd/?imgmax=800" width="558" height="429" /></a></p> <p>Key West cemetery.  Graves are above ground.  Not because of high water table (which does exist) but because ground is essentially a coral reef and digging is nearly impossible.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0Vt9nUTdt_4/V6u3xEs0NaI/AAAAAAAALrQ/ev4_v7nVDF4/s1600-h/P1210722%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1210722" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1210722" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ruyu9sivBgY/V6u3xj3ZoqI/AAAAAAAALrU/EnG4UiU3rxQ/P1210722_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="367" /></a></p> <p>Closer to Cuba than the US mainland.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GemCYXNYL8c/V6u3yL7bKJI/AAAAAAAALrY/N5cdYsIxbmE/s1600-h/P1210723%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1210723" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1210723" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TOYAZAr6EIw/V6u3yxROGDI/AAAAAAAALrc/m2YQOBHCDCk/P1210723_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="487" height="374" /></a></p> <p>Hemmingway’s favorite bar.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zc4W5fTYRfw/V6u7ncybSnI/AAAAAAAALsE/HJvSiG49v8w/s1600-h/P1210735%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1210735" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1210735" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iYJkyup4nJg/V6u7oNAZm2I/AAAAAAAALsI/tb6zmjgj540/P1210735_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="430" height="331" /></a></p> <p>Hemmingway’s house is beyond wall.  Big tourist attraction (and $$$).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hVjqafuy8RI/V6u3zbp_RfI/AAAAAAAALrg/msrljabxlFE/s1600-h/P1210733%25255B1%25255D%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1210733" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1210733" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L8DAPQrjYw4/V6u3zq2QvGI/AAAAAAAALrk/2DuzSNvmcA0/P1210733%25255B1%25255D_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Beginning of US Route 1.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--D2fueDWNCY/V6u30b2UG1I/AAAAAAAALro/nmpr4_gPfT0/s1600-h/P1210740%25255B1%25255D%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1210740" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1210740" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n0g_OufwNQM/V6u30qWpcRI/AAAAAAAALrs/7t2b2H85psA/P1210740%25255B1%25255D_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Southern most drivable point in the United States.  We have now been to all four extremes.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5NrQjxu6Mpc/V6u31IVP06I/AAAAAAAALrw/Ak44Llr7zhY/s1600-h/P1210744%25255B1%25255D%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1210744" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1210744" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9-CIEdYi3WY/V6u31gHygJI/AAAAAAAALr0/EF9wqjDDbqI/P1210744%25255B1%25255D_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Not as prolific as chickens but these guys are here if you know where to look.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-7055880427698226152016-08-07T17:18:00.001-07:002016-08-07T17:18:31.538-07:00August 7, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Kennedy Space Center</font></h2> <p>Spent the day at Kennedy Space Center.  Ten full hours.  Seems a little pricy when you enter but really worth every penny.  Had maybe 45 minutes total down time with lines for bus, lunch, and waiting for a show or movie to start.  The rest of the time was non-stop entertaining education in many forms.  There is a LOT here that is historical, educational, and inspirational.  We had a full day and learned a lot but it could take another day or two to properly take in all of it.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D-yaqYgXUXM/V6fO1ocYdsI/AAAAAAAALpQ/isnfbrrGScA/s1600-h/P1030632%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030632" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030632" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NBDLg8HHdx4/V6fO3jsFlLI/AAAAAAAALpU/Bvr0yS21anI/P1030632_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="440" height="338" /></a></p> <p>Small portion of rocket garden</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sdQXTRGDTN4/V6fO49TQu5I/AAAAAAAALpY/ng9urTBz4w4/s1600-h/P1030635%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030635" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030635" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gplr8mrUOjc/V6fO6PqftBI/AAAAAAAALpc/C0rRWiznKSQ/P1030635_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="425" height="575" /></a></p> <p>Titan II.  I baby sat one of these for four years.  Had something different on top.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Eibm-N9NaCM/V6fO7CNF3mI/AAAAAAAALpg/a8W8eZzaP2c/s1600-h/P1030636%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030636" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030636" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JVbmOF5H9eo/V6fO8cNQH_I/AAAAAAAALpk/zsfC91k03U0/P1030636_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="329" height="445" /></a></p> <p>Entrance to Space Shuttle Atlantis displays, movies, and experiences.  Very cool.  Lots of simulators of various shuttle aspects including a launch simulator that astronauts swear is very realistic.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GmnPwz7tr9U/V6fO-LSbwGI/AAAAAAAALpo/n01mdAejGLw/s1600-h/P1030638%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030638" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030638" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jMaMINGHPOM/V6fPAjf5l8I/AAAAAAAALps/oeyD5vSHVx8/P1030638_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="370" height="285" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zMeSaunuryU/V6fPGsxhBaI/AAAAAAAALpw/wSsI4pD78os/s1600-h/P1030640%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030640" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030640" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0wpgwTf1Wb8/V6fPIuNmQ0I/AAAAAAAALp0/0EeB8KuOUbs/P1030640_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="417" height="321" /></a></p> <p>Space shuttle Atlantis.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wJpGf8Tu3Xk/V6fPR3fQfwI/AAAAAAAALp4/_WvkJ2qUvgk/s1600-h/P1030651%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030651" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030651" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jNljGu0L-RI/V6fPV1j_rTI/AAAAAAAALp8/d9c62NoTiwM/P1030651_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="414" height="318" /></a></p> <p>Saturn V rocket.  Impossible to get in one picture.  Largest rocket ever built – to date.  NASA has plans.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p5aHWwSma9o/V6fPnTtq8AI/AAAAAAAALqA/lLpJ5gtfgAE/s1600-h/P1030656%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030656" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030656" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rSVgVPMzM0A/V6fPpYEUGUI/AAAAAAAALqE/0_0hnG8Ne8Q/P1030656_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="440" height="338" /></a></p> <p>Apollo 14 command module.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lw5CAOJGZdY/V6fPvF3NmEI/AAAAAAAALqI/I5Sbxj8IPvc/s1600-h/P1030657%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030657" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030657" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C6QDHnLQDDY/V6fPwt5AxYI/AAAAAAAALqM/CWexPtgMmEQ/P1030657_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="418" height="321" /></a></p> <p>Sue touching moon rock.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6onhcqex8QA/V6fPzoyP_mI/AAAAAAAALqQ/l6Xn1aXxbos/s1600-h/P1030658%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030658" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030658" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9Zvv-xHybyo/V6fP1qMMlqI/AAAAAAAALqU/AQs8fSUqYCc/P1030658_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="418" height="321" /></a></p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8903311505559660844.post-42096265667396924572016-08-06T13:31:00.001-07:002016-08-06T13:31:41.935-07:00August 5, 2016<h2><font color="#0000ff">Fort Matanzas</font></h2> <p>Semi-layover day to visit spots around St. Augustine.  </p> <p>Drove down barrier island east of St. Augustine.  First stop to see lighthouse.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ggRJaJObL14/V6ZIfpT-2tI/AAAAAAAALnk/fOejzEAwcIU/s1600-h/P1030602%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030602" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030602" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FZQPucmaL4U/V6ZIjQ4mDXI/AAAAAAAALno/j1qJXTyUjRc/P1030602_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="406" height="554" /></a></p> <p>Then south about fifteen miles to visit Fort Matanzas NM.</p> <p>Very small fort built to protect ‘back door’ water approach to St. Augustine.  Fort sits on small island across Matanzas River from the larger barrier island.  Reached by shuttle ferry courtesy of NPS.  No charge. </p> <p>Very small fort. Manned by staff of five.  Four soldiers and an officer.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1cXUkkI9Z4s/V6ZIlLcpEXI/AAAAAAAALns/7nSzJwIfYIM/s1600-h/P1030603%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030603" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030603" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C2l2rrGPJMI/V6ZIm226TyI/AAAAAAAALnw/umj9c-GHOzU/P1030603_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="465" height="357" /></a></p> <p>Approaching  fort</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pEXcOLTbA8c/V6ZIpL8h6zI/AAAAAAAALn0/YGOU2aw-jsU/s1600-h/P1030604%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030604" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030604" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g09FRDfNjio/V6ZIreoyXNI/AAAAAAAALn4/4N1Ss91tTfY/P1030604_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="473" height="369" /></a></p> <p>Closer view</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SLdkOEPJrRo/V6ZIshm2HVI/AAAAAAAALn8/TgTWcY_i2Gw/s1600-h/P1030607%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030607" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030607" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6jEP0LCEQc6GKd98UUVhDyZF6FJqrVuL8S_-yXBUn4i99sf1WESJ67Pz7MkufpBAsIyV6doXWFHUgTmL4sJ1ubs-1VWpNjG3TSgduVS_G0UbaaD0Ca75SDZ8GHrEXZzJwbfFODJmKoQpR/?imgmax=800" width="424" height="579" /></a></p> <p>View from top (observation) level of fort</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mREo7BIKm8w/V6ZIvhs4dqI/AAAAAAAALoE/Ly71XYQaX4g/s1600-h/P1030612%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030612" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030612" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XUAS4ipk4z0/V6ZIxhWGw6I/AAAAAAAALoI/2qk61bAXyUg/P1030612_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="430" height="331" /></a></p> <p>Gun level</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QpGtSknqX4E/V6ZIzmDbnCI/AAAAAAAALoM/mRxZ-Fp9GP0/s1600-h/P1030615%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030615" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030615" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pC6qd7eXtkE/V6ZI0oGcy4I/AAAAAAAALoQ/dZVSkPavcIc/P1030615_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="426" height="328" /></a>Ranger demonstrating to Sue how easily she can lift a cannon with aid of a lever.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I54X9K7Vbj8/V6ZI3iJldpI/AAAAAAAALoU/V1Jj_y5qMEk/s1600-h/P1030616%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030616" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030616" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5b6SQWzualM/V6ZI5RMPYII/AAAAAAAALoY/zdMltDy3ZHQ/P1030616_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="445" height="342" /></a></p> <p>Fort from ground level.</p> <p>‘Matanzas’ is the Spanish word for slaughter.  If you are interested you can Google how the fort and river got that name.  Pretty gruesome.</p> <p>The grounds near the visitor center have a board walk nature trail.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m_BIFyjRpZI/V6ZI7svGIlI/AAAAAAAALoc/f2Z3xVPaFUA/s1600-h/P1030618%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030618" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030618" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P58MwXFLEoU/V6ZI8vF7F8I/AAAAAAAALog/1H5QAOHSOGo/P1030618_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="444" height="341" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1If3LjGs2_k/V6ZI9-ayC-I/AAAAAAAALok/k96fCo8OG-U/s1600-h/P1030620%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030620" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030620" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sDdX8_YY8tQ/V6ZI-21NMBI/AAAAAAAALoo/1KFAxdbvFHk/P1030620_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="444" height="341" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-85FtAe6NDL0/V6ZJAubsXyI/AAAAAAAALos/n_U6IO_dYzI/s1600-h/P1030622%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030622" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030622" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D6CVUYT61X8/V6ZJEjG1xaI/AAAAAAAALow/OMqwOMzuMBA/P1030622_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="417" height="569" /></a></p> <p>Across the highway from the National Monument is a public beach access.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_DkCzbF2ubA/V6ZJGPucvtI/AAAAAAAALo0/ksHqNVMjZTc/s1600-h/P1030626%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030626" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030626" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3HZa6Ahntuo/V6ZJHbRlh4I/AAAAAAAALo4/tDoaT9dr8RY/P1030626_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="310" height="419" /></a></p> <p>Ahhh!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xrVX_Wlx7dA/V6ZJJKkDjBI/AAAAAAAALo8/6t_d2inXkXg/s1600-h/P1030630%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030630" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030630" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1lBK9CCdgHU/V6ZJKnqwp9I/AAAAAAAALpA/1x6fhYdZ96g/P1030630_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="390" height="300" /></a></p> <p>If she were wearing long pants you would not know.  Very natural gait in all activities.  A little while later she was in water up to her chest.</p>Pete and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00382831347205919568noreply@blogger.com0