It's Quite Familiar

Feeling quite behind on writing this blog as I have dozens of thoughts, people and ideas spinning through my head. I literally  have 2 pages of bullet points that I want to bring to the page and can't seem to get there. That said, I sat down and wrote 15 pages in my paper journal yesterday with little pain! 

Left the Hotel Deauville (alias hostel) last Friday as some of my compadres were greeting the rising sun (see photo!). After 2 weeks, I was ready to leave Fort Lauderdale (it's quite busy on the roads) though no complaints on weather, the warm ocean, seeing friends, eating Thai food, and just plain interesting conversation every day with many people from many places. FYI to Jen, Mark, Dara, Francesca, Pat, Liz, Giovanni, Jodi, Lisa, Mike, and Dennis ... I'm thinking of you! 

I've now switched gears and settled into my tent on Sebastian Inlet between the Indian River Lagoon and the ocean. This is by far one of the most beautiful places in Florida. It's my third visit and I can't get enough. The weather is cool (low 70s day; low 50s night) but perfect for any outdoor activity as well as great for staying in the mummy bag with a good book till 8 am. Flora and fauna are in abundance --- I saw dolphins on Sunday while riding but thankfully haven't run into the bob cats yet! 

I spent the last 48 hours with tent neighbors who started their journey by bike just 3 days ago and plan to do the perimeter of the USA throughout the year. Like me, they're in their 50s and sold everything and hit the road. I'll be following their blog! and perhaps we'll meet again this year.  I've 5 more nights in this paradise with a little work on my plate; a desire to see Vero Beach; a 615 page book to finish; miles to ride and walk; and the sheer enjoyment of sitting by the ocean with a full moon watching. 

From here, a few days in Gainesville. I'm told it's the best cycling in Florida!