Friends, Fun, Heat

“Great time, wish you were here!” Back when people mailed post cards, that’s what they often wrote. I used to wonder if it was meant to trigger envy.

There are many things to envy about this adventure…and, some things, not. It is beautiful and (mostly) peaceful here in central Florida, and much to see. But it is hot and humid too, even in late February, and I sweat and swat at gnats and grumble silently a bit … until I remember that my genes are rooted in the Arctic, so of course I need time to adjust. And I remember, too, that it’s below zero in Many Moon‘s home port on Lake Superior. Many people there are bundling up just to walk to the mailbox and would love to be sweating-and-swatting instead. Perspective returns quickly when you consider others’ challenges.

It was truly wonderful to share a full day with my friend June, who drove down with me, and with Jeff’s brother Buck and his wife Denise, who drove down from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to explore Florida for a month. And to be under way again on Many Moons and take the helm for awhile – from the fly bridge! On a narrow river that felt like a mini-Amazon! Then a visit via boat to the famous Blue Spring. Photos and captions below.