Rolling into Florida a few days before Thanksgiving was indeed, shocking -- many people, many cars -- and I chose to hit the city of Melbourne (population 81,000+) first to get things done (think auto maintenance, haircut, etc). There was a bit of decadence though, as I'd reserved 4 nights of AirBnB in West Melbourne, an area that still feels like country (horses, chickens, etc). After being in my tent for most of the past three months, a private room and bath was sheer luxury, and the neighborhood was bike-friendly as people still ride their horses there!

While I did hit the beach once or twice, I was on task, but visited Eau Gallie, a spot I've never taken the time to tour. Now a part of Melbourne, it was an independent town from 1860 until 1969, and the historic district is just 14 acres with 31 homes  Unfortunately, some government brain surgeon chose to put a causeway to the barrier island straight through the neighborhood, yet the residents are holding on to the original historic houses, huge live oaks, the public pier, an art museum, and a symphony orchestra.  

Next, was a return to Savannas Park & Campground, a place I've been a few times, where I enjoy hanging out with some of the staff. I spent Thanksgiving there; have been working on my annual bike mileage goal along the oceanfront; and now trying to warm up to the idea of Christmas while it's nearly 80 degrees. In the morning, I head to yet another AirBnB, in Port St. Lucie, so I can truly prepare for a northern trek to the cold for the holidays with family. Long pants? Gloves? Shoes? 

Of note -- today marks the start of year #4 of nomadness! Oh yeah, stay tuned.