Florida

On a hike through Gulf SP, we 
discovered this interesting character.

November 30 to December 5, 2021

When Randy and I first discussed this trip, it became clear that driving this far south and Not enjoying some of Florida's warm weather just was wrong.  So Florida was a definite addition and conclusion for our little adventure. The only way to drive to Florida from NOLA is through Alabama so we camped in the same park I enjoyed in 2019, Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores, AL.  As the campsite is only a few miles from the Florida state line, I felt compelled to introduce the notoriously famous Flora-Bama Beach Bar to Randy.  He was not disappointed.

Although a bit chilly for swimming, Flora-Bama is still
a great spot on the Gulf of Mexico beaches.

There's live music being performed almost
every day of the year at Flora-Bama.

As boys will be boys, we took immediate notice of the 
garments hanging from the ceiling.

There are multiple stages at Flora-Bama,
but no one was performing in this area.
Clearly the management enjoys the garments
on display as they've provided wires strung to
provide for hundreds more bras and bikini tops!
The photo is looking down from a balcony.

These ladies were enjoying the music at a table near us.
I noticed that the gal on the left has a shirt much like my own!

I picked up my shirt in Hackberry, AZ

Randy and I really enjoyed these guys.

In fact, we liked our experience so much that 

we stayed at the campground an extra day 

so we could spend another day at Flora-Bama!

This duet played for the crowd the next day before we 
drove further south.

Randy and I stayed overnight halfway to Tampa in a rest area.
most FL rest areas permit RVs to stay overnight as long as they
move on after getting rested.
This photo is our campsite at
E.G. Simmons County Park on Tampa Bay. 

We visited Bradenton, FL and a great 
Irish Pub there, McCabe's.

Enjoying a Guiness and a Smithwick's.

This fellow stood ready by the door and
small stage to serve patrons and entertainers.

For dinner we "sailed" to Germany and enjoyed excellent
draft bier at the Old Castle Restaurant, Ruskin, FL.

For a panorama of Old Castle bar, Click Here

The next day we wiggled our toes in
the sand at St. Petersburg Beach.

My friend and colleague from many years ago was playing
and singing great tunes at the beach bar.  It was great 
spending time with him and his better half, Jeanette.

For a panorama of the beach, Click Here.

Sunsets in FL are almost as good as sunsets from a boat.

I returned Randy to the Tampa Airport for his return to
the Hoosier winter and I made my way back to Kelly VI
at the E.G. Simmons County Park