Everglades

It was surprising how many things were closed for the Monday holiday, especially restaurants, so we had to be a bit flexible with our plans. We began with a quick trip to the supermarket for a “take and bake” pizza for the evening. We had a morning walk, and another in the afternoon. More time was spent planning an excursion for the following day.

Early on Tuesday we set out for the Everglades. It was supposed to be about a 90 minute drive to the Shark Valley entrance to the national park, but traffic made the trip a bit longer. We arrived just about the time the park opened, and we were among the first to enter. Using a website, we had reserved bicycles the previous day. The bikes were heavy, old cruisers with a single speed, coaster brakes, and very fat, under-inflated tires. But the 15-mile loop trail was paved and flat, so they would do.

It wasn’t long before we encountered this guy sunning himself along the side of the trail. He wasn’t very interested in us, so long as we didn’t disturb his nap. Before we were done, we had counted at least 40 more of his cousins along the trail. After awhile, we sort of lost count.

The midpoint of the ride was an observation tower. Even though it was probably only 50 feet or so up, one could see for miles across the flat terrain. We also watched eagles hunting for breakfast.

The last half of the loop ride was into the wind. There was absolutely nothing to block it, and not a lick of shade to be found. We were glad to be finished with it. Mary had packed a lunch, and we ate at a picnic table near the visitors center. I assembled my portable antenna and attempted a satellite pass, but failed to hear the satellite overhead.

We packed up and drove back toward Weston, Florida where we visited long-time friend Clark Kilgard. Clark lead us to a local ale house where we caught up with one another over some brew. Then it was back through the afternoon rush hour traffic for dinner at the condo.