Florida 2023

 

Florida

March 2023

       Never thought of us as “snowbirds.” No interest in living in Florida, seasonally or otherwise. But we seem to be developing something of a regular winter visit. It began with a drive down to join friend Kay in Sarasota in January 2014. We took the Queens family to Disney World for Thanksgiving that same year. A break in the action until last winter: a 2-part stay, 1^st with friends Deb & Chris in Sarasota and then joining with Mary & Jeff to stay with Susan & Jim in Naples. Very enjoyable, why not do a repeat? We do like the Sarasota area, plenty to see & do without being too hectic. And the Naples condo is nicely situated on a big pond, easy access to local sights & activities. This time we’ll head down in March when travel should be less affected by weather and more may be blooming in Florida.

      After a pretty quiet winter here we’ve had some recent snowfalls, still a couple of inches on the ground. Nothing like California: 10’ of snow, some people trapped at home for 2 weeks. Weather forecasts look good for Florida. Last September Hurricane Ian, the 3^rd-costliest weather disaster on record and deadliest hurricane to hit Florida since 1935, caused damage around Naples & especially nearby Fort Myers, even washing away a bridge to Sanibel Island, but Jim & Susan’s condo wasn’t damaged.

      In the midst of prepping for the trip a UPS package arrives from Mary & Jeff. Something new in giftgiving, many merged into one: Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Happy Valentine's Day, Happy St. Patrick's Day, Happy Spring! For me an adorable mini–Red Cross van that reflects my blood delivery driving.