It’s that time of year again where we pack up and head south.  I debated about doing a blog this year as finding time to write amid our active Florida lifestyle is sometimes a problem, but after a few requests I decided I should give it a go for another year. Hopefully this blog will give you a little glimpse into our southern life through words and many pictures.  It will be our last year in this particular condo as the owner is selling so future winters will hold something new for us. We have been fortunate to rent at an excellent rate from a wonderful couple who have been more than fair and kind to us.  Change is inevitable, as with most things in life, leaving the door open next year to create new adventures. In the meantime we take this winter as a gift and will enjoy it to the fullest. Whether we end up in Harbour Isle next year or somewhere else, we will always treasure the friends and experiences.

On Sunday we begin our journey south, stopping in Kentucky to see one of those treasured friends we have met in Florida. Laura is a real southern lady and an inspiration and testament to the tenacity of the human spirit. Her positive outlook on life and ability to persevere in the face of adversity is to be admired.  She is the example of living life to the fullest, focusing on joy, and recognizing silver linings. I can’t wait to see her.  

We also plan to stop in the Wisconsin Dells for a day of sightseeing on the river boat through the upper and lower dells.  Hopefully we have not missed all the beautiful fall colors.  Regardless, I hear it is a lovely cruise with lots to see and it will give us a brief glimpse into the history and beauty of the area. 

We are almost packed, laundry almost done, cleaning well on its way and the yard work done to as good as it’s going to get. We look forward to Florida but it is difficult to say goodbye to family and friends here at home. We have decided this is the last year to go for such a long period time.  The 5 months away from the grandkids and family is just too long for me.  I may just have to sneak back home for a week or so! Roger says he would drive me to the airport, but he is not getting on the plane and heading back to the cold. I guess we will see how things go. First we need to get there and get settled and just enjoy each day as it comes. Besides, Skype is a marvelous invention.

Sunday morning the journey begins towards this year’s adventure in the sun. Ralph Waldo Emerson summed things up when he said: Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air. That is exactly what I plan to do.

To our Canadian family and friends, we will see you in the spring; to our American friends, we will see you soon.

Take care everyone,

Carol