Homosassa, FL
March 1 - 7, 2009
Saturday evening, with our Harley in tow, we left for Florida’s west coast, arriving around 1:30 PM Sunday. The house we stayed in was very private, comfortable and accommodating. We enjoyed the quiet it afforded at the end of the day.
We started Monday shopping the local thrift stores then enjoyed the afternoon at Homosassa Spring Wildlife State Park. There we were ferried to the wildlife park via a pontoon boat that was a World’s Fair holdover. Inside the park we enjoyed native wildlife and were introduced to, and fell in love with the famous Gentle Giant Manatees! We watched as they congregated in the hot springs fed 72 degree waters where they are hand fed their favorite vegetables. We so enjoyed this very clean, well kept park. Tuesday we enjoyed shopping the local stores and taking a 70 mile leisurely bike trip, which looped through a beautiful bike route.
On Wednesday we went to visit our nephew Steve who lives in Nokomis. Having not seen him for quite some time, it was a great visit! He drove us around the area, showing us the islands and noting points of interest along the way. While there, we strolled the beach, walked the fishing pier, gathered shells and Steve’s favorite; shark’s teeth. We lunched at a very nice waterfront restaurant, finishing our day with a huge serving of vanilla and orange cream from Steve’s favorite ice cream shop. How great to see Steve and this beautiful island on the Gulf of Mexico. One cannot describe the awesome clear blue water and white beaches! What a great day it was.
Thursday began early with a bike trip to Daytona Beach to join the thousands of bikers gathered to celebrate Bike Week. After stopping at the convention center, we continued down Main Street where there were endless rows of bikes and bikers. It was very exciting to see this gathering of enthusiastic cyclists! From there we rode to Leesburg to visit Mary’s lifelong friend Rose. Had a great dinner and visit with her and husband Buddy. The weather was just perfect for the total 242 miles we traveled that day.
Friday was another 80 degree day where we pontooned on the Homosassa’s River, enjoying the many Manatees which were swimming all around our boat. How awesome to be so close to this once endangered species. It was a pleasure as well to see several playful Dolphins off the bow of our boat.
Saturday found us biking to Honeymoon Island around 64 miles from home. What a gorgeous place! On the Gulf, white beach, and of course clear aqua water! We strolled in the water, sat on the beach, and then we headed to Floral City where their annual Strawberry Festival was in progress. After riding the 66 miles there, we were ready for the huge strawberry shortcakes we enjoyed! After seeing the venders and listening to a local country band we started the 30 mile trip home. Sunday morning we headed back home, Thanks to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for a safe trip!