032 Florida

Florida or bust . . .Joining the blue hairs

Sunny Florida has always beckoned me during the winter months. This year was the perfect time to check it out since I retired last June, and my husband’s retirement job is flexible.

Leaving the snow and ice of a cold, cold winter was accomplished effortlessly with no looking back. We packed up the car and headed for “parts unknown” --- actually we knew where we were going but I love saying that.

As we made our way through North Carolina, we noticed snow covering the fields – a rough winter for sure. But finally, hitting South Carolina, we leave the snow for grass and freshly planted fields --- such a welcome view!

Stopping in Savannah, Ga. and staying on River Street, we abandon our heavy coats and boots for lighter jackets or none at all. We had forgotten what it was like to slowly stroll and sit outside to dine --- it felt great!

Heading to the Sunshine State, we realize the absence of snow is really good for the psyche and brings back all the pleasant memories of summer and spring. We had forgotten what it was like as we joined “snow birds,” flocking south.

Our first stop on the east side of Florida is to visit friends from Winchester where we are introduced to beautiful beaches (with a little nudity) and great seafood, as well as catching up.

The next destination is the on the west side of the state as we traverse Florida to soak up more of the sunshine. Clearwater Beach has a beautiful area that reminded us of Myrtle Beach, S.C. and Daytona Beach, Fla. We were pleasantly surprised at the cross section of tourists --- families, international visitors, young couples --- not the influx of “blue hairs” we had always associated with Florida.


We made the most of what was there, including a visit to the Chihuly Exhibition, a permanent display in St. Petersburg. His glass art is amazing and always impressive. 

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium was a must-see. The home of dolphins, Winter and Hope, stars of “Dolphin Tale” and “Dolphin Tale 2” did not disappoint. We loved those movie, and it was great to see them in person (or dolphin). If you get anywhere near the area, don’t miss either of these exciting attractions.

Also lunch with a special high school friend at an amazing seafood restaurant on the water added to the overall success of the trip --- we picked up where we left off decades ago not missing a beat.

As the trip progressed, we kept thinking, “Can this really be February.” Wearing sandals and shorts is not routine this time of year.

As cloudy weather moved in, (but nothing like back home where we had missed two snowstorms), we decided to head back up the coast on the east side. A beautiful drive up A1A, a ferry ride we didn’t know we would be taking, lighthouses, and amazing views assaulted our senses. We found a great hotel in St. Simons, Ga. and again were cognizant of the fact we had not seen snow, ice, sleet or freezing rain for days.

We stopped for a few days in South Carolina at one of our favorite beaches to avoid the return to winter in Virginia. When we did head back, we managed to find a day without any type of precipitation, but shortly, we were back in the middle of a large snowstorm-- hopefully one of the last of the season.

We highly recommend a southern road trip if you can tear yourself away from the shoveling, snow blowing, and freezing temperatures --- but if you can’t let go of winter, you have definitely lost your mind and there is no help for you.

Frances