When I was a child I was told the Cape Cod Indians used these shells as money to trade.
Day 32: 8 am. Sunday, December 21, 2014, I wake up from a wonderful night sleep at the Island Inn on Sanibel Island. The sun is shining and another lovely beach day. It’s just a few days before Christmas and I’m enjoying the last few warm sunny days. I love it. I’m warming up to Florida. I love Sanibel with its white powdery beaches and variety of shells. I can see why people come here for the winter.
My plan for the day is to explore Captiva Island. At 10am I head out. The island is smaller than I envisioned. I drive past the stately homes to the village, parking is at a minimal. It’s almost as though they don’t want the public in-only those who are staying there have access. I find a beach and the last parking space. Since it’s the last weekend before Christmas the beach is full of people. To me this is not inviting at all. I don’t stay, why would I after being in paradise at Bowman Beach.
On my way back to Sanibel Island I stop at The Green Flash restaurant for lunch. My table overlooks the bay and the docks. I order the Green Flash sandwich; smoked turkey breast, prosciutto, Swiss & Monterey cheese, and tomato on Focaccia bread brushed with pesto. For dessert I have the Chocolate Mousse-delicious. Now that I’m full I head back to Bowman Beach which I know I will enjoy.
It reminds me of Plum Island, Massachusetts: Unspoiled beaches, wildlife, vegetation, miles of soft white sand and 1000’s of shells for as long as the eye can see…Life is a beach. I spend the rest of the day walking, collecting seashells, swimming and relaxing. This will probably be my last time at a beach in my bikini for a very long time and I want to make the most of it. Out of all the beaches I’ve been too on my road trip, Bowman Beach ranks the highest. I love the solitude and peacefulness.
My collection of sea shells
Miles of powdery sand as far as the eye can see
Did I tell you I love shells?
As the golden rays of the sun spread out over the beach, I decide to pack up and head back to the hotel to watch the sunset over the ocean. I walk along the beach for a few yards watching the birds fly over the water. The waves are increasing as they tug at the shore. As dusk approaches, I walk back to my room.
Flying low
My original plan is to stay until the next day in Sanibel then head to Tampa to see my friend Carolyn for lunch on my way to Tallahassee. I book the Best Western in Tallahassee from 22nd -24th. Now I’m not so sure if those plans will work out. The clouds are increasing and I hear that northern Florida all the way up to Chicago is going to be hit hard with rain. Something I’m not looking forward to-not a fan of driving in torrential rain. I need to watch the weather closely. Decisions, decisions.
When to leave Sanibel Island tomorrow and head to Tennessee to see my bud without driving in torrential downpours. UGH! Apparently all the Mid western and Southeastern states will have weather related travel issues. The song I Feel For You by Chaka Kahn is the anthem song for all who are trying to get somewhere during the Holidays. Be Safe my friends.
Day 32: I wake up to a cloudy day and turn on the TV. The rain is coming. I can’t avoid it.
The rain is coming
I check Tallahassee and it says that there is flash floods. I look at my options and weigh them heavily. What should I do? Which way should I go? I check out of the Island Inn and head to Tampa. I arrive close to 2pm, a car accident on the bridge slowed me down. Since it’s so late in the day, Carolyn suggests that I stay overnight and then have a fresh start in the morning. I agree and call the Best Western in Tallahassee to cancel my reservation. I call before 4pm so I’m not penalized. We have dinner at Crabby Bills Indian Rock. It’s a seafood joint. I seefood I just don’t eat it, so I have the baby back ribs and a couple of strawberry daiquiris. The food is good. We sit outside where we listen to live music. It’s great catching up with Carolyn. I’ve been friends with her sister Noelle for over 43 years and I feel part of their family.
Life is Good.
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