Sunrise to Sunset - the First Day

Sunrise on Boca Ciega Bay

Monday was a ramp-up day. I usually have a full "to do" list, even on vacation, but yesterday I didn't have much initiative.

The morning fog was magical and spooky, enveloping Boca Ciega Day shortly after my morning swim. It lifted in about twenty minutes and the Florida sun warmed our winter weary souls.

We drove down to the beach to our favorite Pass-a-Grill beach, where Bob enthusiastically announced that he was going to do some shelling.This is a new (and probably passing) enthusiasm, fueled by a glossy, colorful brochure of Florida seashells he picked up at the Florida Welcome Center.



Shells at Land's End, Pass-a-Grille

The tide was low and there were lots of fresh shells on the beach, though most were broken and, in fact, he didn't find even one that passed muster. Ever inclined to socialize with strangers, he accosted a man who was picking up the smallest shells for crafting. Somehow I can't imagine Bob with a glue gun making lampshades or jewelry, and I certainly don't need a new hobby myself.

Sunset over the Gulf of Mexico

We had lunch at our "default" Sea Critters Cafe, one of our best lunches ever. We split a broiled salmon dinner, washed down by a margarita (Bob) and a Newcastle Brown Ale (me). The black beans and rice, a specialty here in St. Pete Beach, were mildly spiced, perfect for Bob's Minnesota palate.

We topped up our afternoon with some photo maintenance (me) and a short nap (Bob), followed by a swim and hot tub. Our sixth floor front balcony gives us a good view of the gulf across the street, so we watched the sun set in the company of Johnny Walker.

Florida pics.