Dateline Dayton – Even though it has been quite cold here, I want to tell you about the last portion of our recent trip to much warmer Florida.

While in Florida with our friends Darlene and Ray, nothing starts early, and a certain Thursday was no exception. By late morning, we were on our way to Myakka River State Park, off Route 72, a half-hour from Venice. It is one of Florida’s largest, most diverse natural areas, The Myakka River flows though 58 square miles of wetland, prairies, hammocks and pinelands. The river and its two shallow lakes attract a colorful myriad of wetland creatures.

Due to our late start, almost immediately upon arrival, we were thinking about food. We were not alone. Everyone in the park had the same idea, and the lunch stand/gift shop was not that big. We invested a fair amount of time in line, waiting for our order to be taken, then getting the food. Although the air was windy, we sat out on the balcony, a beautiful setting.

Since we had to be back in Venice for supper with friends Joe and Pam, we didn’t have much  time to explore the park. We walked down to the river, took advantage of the canopy walkway and tower, and on the way out we visited one of the shallow lakes to view the alligators. This park is on our list for a full day visit next year.

Did You Say Something?

For supper with the Bissetts that evening, Joe took us to the Island, to Daraqui Place.  Again we chose to dine outside, not the best decision since it was cool. The outdoor heaters helped, and the music was loud but entertaining. Afterward, we returned to Joe and Pam’s for dessert and for the conservation the loud music at the restaurant prevented us from having.

Friday was another cool, rainy day, so we headed for a flea market in Bradenton. Again, due to the late start, it was already lunch time, so we stopped for a meal. The flea market was nothing.  I made it though without a purchase.

That night we were back at the Island for supper, which was delicious. For dessert, we went to Kilwins for ice cream. Once back at the house, it was time for Pauline and me to start packing for our return trip home.

Nearly Time to Turn for Home

The plan for Saturday had been an early lunch so we could arrive at our aunt’s in Sun City by 3:45. We didn’t leave for lunch until noon, cramping our schedule. We had lunch at Sharky’s on the Beach. We decided not to wait an hour for an outside table. I am sorry we did not have time to walk on the beach because it was a lovely day. ,

We reached Aunt Alma on time, after she had returned from a busy day of activities with a seniors from her development. We visited almost two hours, and we were on our way by 5:30. 

We had a difficult time finding a motel for the night because of the crowds on spring break. We landed in the Georgia town of Adel, where it poured heavily.

Since we drove longer than intended on Saturday, we had time on Sunday to stop at the Mast General Store in Knoxville. I was disappointed because they no longer carry individually wrapped circus peanuts, my main motivation. I did buy Sugar Daddies for our friend Darlene, though.

Other than rain, we didn’t have any traffic problems until the Renfro Valley exit in Kentucky. Fortunately, I was able to see there was a problem and got off. Since it was supper time, we took advantage.

When leaving, a gentleman in the restaurant told us how to avoid the problem. We took his advice and we were back on Interstate 75 in no time, past where a truck had crossed the median and had all lanes blocked.

By Cincinnati, the rain had turned to snow, although the roadway still was clear. When we reached 675, our turnoff for home, snow was covering the pavement.  It only became deeper the closer we got to Bonnie Road. But we made it safely.
What a welcome!

Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net