While we have been back from our wild west trip for about two weeks, the TeePee has been stuck in the storage facility feeling a bit neglected. Last time it went on any kind of adventure was to Tallahassee for the spring game in mid April. And looking ahead, it was going to be a while before we'd be taking it out again. So, we decided to do a 'close-to-home-but-far-away-enough-to get the TeePee up to speed, and give it a little TLC (grease the slide mechanisms, change some burnt bulbs, give it a bath, etc.)
Destination - Homosassa Springs. We have driven by this area a zillion times on our way to and from Tallahassee, but have never ventured off the main road. We found a campground that looked like it would work for us, made a reservation and hit the road Friday morning.
After an uneventful drive and getting situated, we explored the historic area and along the river. We decided to give Neon Leon's a try for dinner. Must be THE place in town 'cause we got "the look" when we said we didn't have reservations. Who knew this little town was so fancy?
On Saturday after getting the chores done, we thought we could explore the State Wildlife Park just down the road from the campground.
Do you see two manatees?
Can you see three manatees?
Seriously clear water but with the reflection it makes it tough to see the snook.
Much better (when you shoot through polarized sunglasses lens)!
(Good idea Frank!)
Pretty cool underwater observatory.
Mullet, ladyfish and clouds
Pretty blue water!
Here Mr. Snook
Where's the rod?!?
Inside the education center
Sea turtle nest
Alligator snapping turtle
Python (I think)
Mr Turtle
Invasive, non-endangered species: Floridus Redneckidus
They have a whole reptile building filled with lots of snakes!
Grey rat snake
American Alligator (middle) Diamondback Terrapin (lower right)
Albino Cooter
Area where the otters hang out
Don Juan the Cougar
Maygar the Cougar
Read here for the story.
Pelican Island
Two black bears
Waiting for their shift to sit by the flag for pictures. :o)
Beautiful blue heron
Swan and flamingo
So many beautiful (but noisy) flamingos!
Red fox
Yep, they're real
Hmmmm, I wonder why?
We were a little unsure what this was all about, but we didn't want to be anywhere near the business-end of Lu(Lucifer) the Hippo.
"Who needs toilet paper when you have a brick wall!"
After a lazy boat-ride down the river back to the car we were a bit hungry.
Peck's Old Port Cove Restaurant received many favorable reviews on Trip Adviser. So we decided to give it a try. In the middle of nowhere, just before the road ends.
Peel-n-eat shrimp, parsley potatoes. Combination platter (grouper, clams, shrimp, scallops and oysters). May not be the healthiest, but it was darn tasty!
Peck's is also known for their crab dishes (including soft shell crabs). And to keep up with the demand, they have their own crab farm out back.
"The View" - well worth the drive to see such lovely scenery.
A nice 48 hours getaway! And the TeePee got some much needed attention. :o)
