The scenic coast...

                                              White sand beaches that look like snow!

It was a leisurely day on the road as we traveled the scenic coastal highway, stopping along the way at some small coastal retirement communities.  There are some beautiful little seaside places, but nothing that would be quite right for us. We realized that the panhandle area is pretty far from the rest of the action in Florida and might be a bit to isolated if we want to do anything else. The small communities reminded us of Clear Lake and had very distinctive charm with small artsy shops and local eateries. I would certainly recommend the drive down the coast though for the sheer quaintness and beauty of it all. 

I still love the sound of the ocean with the waves crashing on the beach. It was very windy this morning when we stopped at Santa Rosa Beach and as usual I found the ocean memorizing with its constant whoosh of the waves on shore. The pure white sand looked like snow on the beach and the white dunes like snow banks. A sight to behold as we walked along the boardwalk.  Perhaps my favourite place today was a small village called Mexico Beach where the community has grown into a retirement village. According to the locals (return retirees) many rentals are available this year as tough times and poor weather has kept people away. It is sad to see foreclosure signs and the endless rental signs in such a vibrant little community.

We ended our day on the outskirts of Tallahassee after an hour or so of driving in the fog. Roger did not seem to mind as he said he has driven in worse snowstorms and at least the roads weren’t icy. True I guess, but a bit unnerving I thought, especially over the causeways. Nervous Nellie me……nothing a good shot of rum didn’t cure. 

We are still discussing tomorrow’s travels, but it looks like we are heading to Tampa. Lots to do and see there.

Take care all.