More sites from the Sunshine State

Hi to all of our followers.  We have been enjoying all the sites and scenery if Florida.  We both thought that Michigan had a lot of lakes and water, but after you have really traveled in Florida in a boat can you appreciate the many waterways, canals, inland waterways, and the beautiful ocean.

This is one of the islands that formed when the tide changed.  We were at anchor just a few boats lengths away.  We were aware that this was shallow but it is always interesting to look out where there was open water when sunset the night before.












We were at anchor on the Manatee River at anchor and we heard this loud noise overhead.  There was this huge flock of birds and the air was black and thick with birds.  Here is a picture of the sky.  Erwin waved his hat and they did not land on our boat but the second picture is the dock on shore near our boat.  Of course, you know if it is up to me I see the unusual and share it.

This is one of the beautiful sunrises we enjoyed while at anchor.

This is one of the swing bridges that connects the main land to one of the barrier islands.  It is only 9 feet tall so we always have to call the bridge tender to open the bridge.  It is a pretty slick operation.

Oh by the way, did I mention that we have purchased a Florida fishing license?  So Erwin has been learning all about fishing in salt water and catching fish.  It takes quite a bit of practice and patience.  I must say though, he sure can make those crab traps work well.  Here is a picture of one of the blue crabs that he caught.

And then-------- we had a feast.  This is our seafood dinner that we took a picture of as we were starting to prepare it in the gally.

We sure did love that seafood.  It was delicious!

Here are some pictures of the great dolphins that swim with us.  They love the wake of the boat and try to swim along with us part of the time.  It is tricky to get the pictures of them.

Pretty cool, huh?













So on that note, I am sad to say that we will not be posting again for a while.  We will begin again in mid January when we return to Florida.  We are very happy to say that we are going home to Michigan to spend the holidays with our great family, extended family, and friends.  Thanks for following us and see you in January.