Katie Bee

Jewels of the Ocala Between Daytona on the East coast and Ocala in Florida’s midsection lie the jewels of the Ocala National Forest – springs, warm springs that flow out of the earth at 72 degrees Fahrenheit. When you are lucky, like I was today, the air temperature is 85 degrees, making it almost perfect for snorkeling in the springs. Last year I tried one of the 4 jewels, Alexander Springs; this year I was determined to try the others, Being a southern girl, I like warm water for swimming, so even water temps of 72 degrees is not warm enough. I learned that last year when it took me 45 minutes to ease myself into the spring. That year, my note-to-self was: “remember your mask and snorkel next time.” This year, not only did I ... read more

Shelly and I celebrated our first week on-the-road yesterday. We toasted our cups to successfully arriving at Big Cypress National Preserve, drinking fresh Florida orange juice of course! We’re staying at Monument Lake campground, which seems to be a well-kept secret as not too many people are here. Winter is south Florida’s busy season so keeping away from crowds isn’t always easy. Today’s high temperature was 81 and the low was 65, YAY! The van, known to some as the Gypsy Outhouse, gracefully rumbled south toward warmth and good company. First, we visited Lizza and Ian in their nice apartment in North Decatur. They were wonderful hosts and tour guides. We cut daffodils from the yard (blooming in January?, perhaps a global warming perk!). About 2/3s of the way down the Gulf coast in Englewood, we ... read more