Family and Fun in the Winter Sun...

The Tiki Hut at Water's Edge provided a great gathering place!

       Our first winter was spent in Central Florida and we returned in early March to join George's twin nephews, Jim and John and their wives, at Water's Edge Motor Coach Resort in Okeechobee.  

Winnie Gators' Rally theme -- Wild, Wild West

      We were happy to be invited and drove the coach up to Orlando for the Winnie Gators' Florida State Rally at the Central Florida Fairgrounds.  The grounds and the people were delightful!  But, sadly, our participation was cut short due to the death of George's uncle Sam.  

Judging the dog parade and contests was an extremely difficult task!

      We drove the coach from Orlando and then drove the car to Englewood where extended family had gathered.  Uncle Sam lived a long and happy life, and will be remembered fondly by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Harry is a regular bait thief

      After we survived a tornado warning early during our visit, the weather was so pleasant, especially compared to the rest of the country.  

      Evenings we gathered at the community Tiki Hut to watch the sunset, and George enjoyed an air boat tour of the area and visits from his brother and sister-in-law.

      The negatives were an unexpected trip to the veterinarian after our smaller Sheltie, Zara, was attacked by fire ants and suffered a swollen left eye.  George, in an effort to save her, suffered numerous bites on his hands and arms.  The water, although filters were provided at each site, came from the tap somewhat brown in color.  We drank bottled water and used the color catcher sheets in the washer.

Spanish Moss, Egrets and the Canal -- common sights during morning walks

      We said our good-byes as first John and his dad, Jack and then Jim and his wife, Terry, departed.  It was nice to have family for neighbors.  We left on Sunday, April 6th, heading north on I-95 for our next adventure, 1600 miles away at the 54th Escapade in Goshen, Indiana.

Tiki Hut at Water's Edge Motor Coach and RV Park in Okeechobee, Florida

       Rest in peace, Uncle Sam.  We will miss your smile, your laughter, your song and dance, and your exceptional hospitality.  When we think of sunny Florida, we are reminded of you.

Continually on gator watch during the air boat tour