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Saving "Democracy" One Bald Eagle at a Time

11/12/2016

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Local ABC Affiliate, Channel 9, covered the story live.
Nov 2016, ORLANDO: Shortly after the US Presidential election, the story of two Bald Eagles, the symbol of American freedom, went viral on the internet. It seemed that the two had been fighting over territory and had fallen from the sky into the grate of a sewer drain, where one of them got stuck.

The drama drew a crowd of over 150 of my neighbors (this was just a couple miles from my home), and local TV had streaming coverage that got attention around the world.

​Being just after the drama of the election there were many that tried to turn the birds unfortunate predicament into a political metaphor… “Just shows America is circling the drain,” “Save Democracy,” and other quips appeared in the comments below the streaming video.
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​Fortunately authorities got ahold of the folks at the local Audubon Center for Birds of Prey and they dispatched an eagle eyed wildlife professional to oversee the rescue effort.

One of the birds did break free and flew up into the sky, continuing to circle and watching the action from up above. The other Eagle fell into the drain where, then, it could not escape at all. Firefighters were careful to tie a rope around the heavy iron grate, before they removed it, in order to prevent it falling on the trapped symbol of America and quashing all our hopes for the future.

Then, using a net, they were able to snare the bird around the legs (the safest place to grab them as their legs are very strong), and pull it to safety.

So today… “Democracy” is recuperating at the Audubon Center and people of ALL political persuasions are pulling together as one, checking on it’s condition and sending donations to help the center with it’s work.

Central Florida is home to many native species, some, like the Bald Eagle, is also found throughout the country and North America. However some species, like the Florida Alligator, or the Manatee, are only found in the Southern States.

If you love wildlife, and are visiting Florida, there are many “once in a lifetime” opportunities to see native and endangered wildlife, sometimes in their natural habits. A few of my favorite places are…
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Audubon Center for Birds of Prey
Audubon Center for Birds of Prey.
Let’s start with the "Hero’s of the day;" the Audubon Center is located in the town of Maitland, in the Orlando area. For travelers and tourists wanting to experience real Florida, the Center provides opportunities to view Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Kites, Owls and Falcons; some of nature’s top predators.  You can learn about the unique adaptations of raptors, challenges they face and ways you can help. 

At the Center’s Gazebo, view the Magic of Flight barn, which houses birds currently under rehabilitation.  Additional exhibits highlight conservation in Florida and include a behind the scenes look into rehabilitation. 

You can learn more and DONATE to the center on their website: http://fl.audubon.org
Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge
...is where locals take any injured or orphaned wildlife they find. “Critter Capture” professionals such as Bob Cross could not do their jobs, without a lot of heartbreak, were it not for the kind folks and volunteers at BTN. 

The Back to Nature motto is “No Animal Left Behind” and, when a local finds a baby raccoon in their yard, when their cat brings home an injured squirrel, when a hunter stumbles upon a baby owl or an abandoned coyote pup, the place they take the rescued critter is to “Back to Nature.”

Check out the BTN Farmers Market on Saturday at the nearby Valencia College campus.

Additionally the Center is OPEN to the public Tues-Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm for just a $5 donation. With over 30 different species, the “Wildlife Walk” is a must see for tourists and locals alike, and one of the best “entertainment values” you’ll find in Central Florida.

Back to Nature is just a 15 minute drive from the Orlando International Airport so many visitors plan their arrivals and departures so they can stop in and spend a few hours before or after their flights.

To get directions and more information, visit Back to Natures site: www.btnwildlife.org
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"Precious" the Raccoon
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"Tarot the Red Tailed Hawk
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"Jagger" the Rock Star! (Bobcat)
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GatorLand
(Ninja Level: 3 out of 5)
No visit to the Orlando area is complete without a stop at GatorLand. You almost feel like you are stepping back in time to the “pre-mouse” days of old Florida, as you can still see elements and hints of how GatorLand must have looked back in 1949 when it was built and run by Owen Godwin, a former postmaster and member of a local ranching family.

Still run by the Godwin family, the 45 acre park has had many facelifts and updates to keep it fresh and to keep families coming back year after year.

Sure they have the standard “Alligator Wrestling” and feeding shows, but they also have a variety of other reptiles in addition to their huge, HUGE gators and crocs. Seriously, they literally have a “mile of monsters” (Hi Bonecrusher!). The park is home to over “24 large alligators and crocodiles whose unique anti-social personalities have left those who work closest with them in need of therapy.” Can’t miss THAT!

In 2011 GatorLand completed the “Screaming Gator Zip Line” … five INTENSE zip lines that dangle you high above the ground along 1200 feet of line and seven platforms. A 150 foot high suspension bridge provides some great views. 1.8 million dollars and it was voted BEST ZIP LINE in the USA by AOL Travel! In 2016 GatorLand even launched a wheelchair accessible ZipLine. Wow... Ninja Level: 2 out of 5, that's more my speed and how great they are providing fun for everyone!

Check out their website and make a date to meet BoneCrusher at: www.gatorland.com
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Blue Spring State Park
Depending on the time of year, you might see just a few, or a plethora of endangered Manatees here.

The last time I visited, there were so many Manatees packed into the river by the viewing dock that you could have walked across their backs to the other side without getting your feet wet (except, of course, that would be wrong, you cannot “molest” Manatees, it’s a crime).
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I think Blue Spring State Park, north of Orlando, is a great place to spend an hour, or a couple of days. It’s slow paced, you get to view some Manatees, walk along some trails (2600 acres so have your GPS with you, lol).

There are picnic areas, but they only have concession type food so bring your own if your idea of dining runs to the “fancier.”

There is the historic old Thursby House, built in 1872 (considered a new house in Rome), that used to house steamboat passengers in days past.

There’s swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling and tubing, as well as kayak and canoe rentals near by at St. Johns River Cruises.

And, if you want to hang out for the weekend, you can always book reservations for your RV or tent at one of 51 campsites (pet friendly, within reason).

Bring your camera, you never know what other critters might be ready to pose for you, but please keep your toddlers and pets SAFE, Florida has wildlife with teeth AND appetites!

Get info on their site here:
www.floridastateparks.org

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Thursby House, 1872
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If you’re an animal lover, like me, you probably already make them a part of any vacation you take and, besides what I’ve mentioned here, there are literally hundreds of opportunities to enjoy wildlife in Florida. Just use Google to find something near your destination!

As far as "Democracy," the Bald Eagle, goes... sadly, she passed away from her injuries. So, while Democracy is dead, you can still visit her friends at the Audubon Birds of Prey Center and make a donation in her name and in the spirit of freedom.

NOTE: It's a small, small world. Just learned it was Yaileen's boyfriend, Tito, who saw the Bald Eagles fall from the sky and called 911. Yaileen is "our" server at Sweet Mama's

#BaldEagle
​#Orlando
#WildlifeRehab 
#TravelWriting
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by Sue Copening
TravelWritingPartners@gmail.com
www.TravelWritingPartners.com 
407-443-0348

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Celebrating 75 Years at the Morse Museum

11/9/2016

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ORLANDO / WINTER PARK: The Morse Museum of American Art, located on Park Avenue in Winter Park, Florida, celebrates 75 years of offering beauty and art this year. As part of the celebration a new exhibition was officially opened to the public on Tuesday, October 18th.

This phenomenal showcase of the Morse Museum’s entire collection is solidly diverse and continues to bring beauty and continuity to its audience.

It effectively applauds many additional outstanding artifacts which have been added to an impressive array of amazing art which already make up this fascinating collection.

Founded in 1942, the Morse Museum is probably best known for its collection of Tiffany lamps and artifacts dating back to the early 1900’s. Louis Comfort Tiffany (1948 - 1933) began collecting pottery, paintings, art glass, leaded glass windows and lamps. The industrialist housed much of his art and architectural objects in his Long Island estate, “Laurelton Hall,” which included 20th century American paintings, graphics, decorative art, stained glass windows, art pottery and more.

Tiffany died in 1933 and much of the vast collection was actually sold at auction due to the original foundation’s financial instability.

The original estate, which consisted of an impressive 37,000 square foot estate home, along with majestic gardens, was set on 600 acres of Long Island’s North Shore. Sadly, Laurelton Hall burned to the ground in 1957, but much of the art collection had been sold by then.

Tiffany's granddaughter, Jeannette Genius McKean, along with her husband Hugh, founded the Morse Museum, in Winter Park, in 1942 . She and her husband, Hugh McKean developed the Morse Museum beginning with many artifacts from the estate of her late grandfather. The museum began with an unprecedented amount of works from his original estate which, over the past 50 years, have developed into an impressive array of amazingly enduring art pieces.

Available for viewing with a distinct emphasis on diversity and originality, the collection is both beautiful and contemporary without compromise.

Dr. Laurence Ruggiero, Director of the Morse Museum, stated “there is no right or wrong way to enjoy art. There are no rules and art is both sensual and intellectual before you start to talk about it.” He then added sagely, “it is more important to experience art than to ‘know’ about it because art ‘speaks’ to everyone regardless of race, sexuality or ethnicity.”

The most recent works of art to complement the Morse collection include a wonderful array of Three Face glass, iridescent carnival glass, portraits, landscape paintings, pottery and works on paper. Sixty new objects will highlight the eclectic array of artifacts presented by the McKeans over the past five decades. There are also plaster art pieces, sculptures, prints and impressive windows of stained glass.

Incredibly, “The Chapel”, created in 1893 by Louis Comfort Tiffany as a pavilion for exhibition at the 1983 Chicago World’s Fair, now sits intact at the Morse Museum. Although it was officially called "The World’s Columbian Exposition," which brought the already successful designer even more popularity both in America and abroad, its beauty and relevance still hold true. After the World’s Fair, The Chapel was reinstalled in the crypt of the newly built Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in New York City. This breathtaking structure fell into disrepair after some ten years and Tiffany reacquired it, restored it and transported it back to his Laurelton Hall estate on Long Island.

Twenty six years after Tiffany's death, Jeannette and Hugh McKean acquired the remains of the chapel. They painstaking reassembled all of the windows, furnishings, etc . Today, we are able to celebrate the original elements which have been included in the Museum’s chapel exhibit (much of which dates back to the original Chicago 1983 construction). The Chapel continues to be a stunning tribute to faith, art, history and perseverance.

​The Morse Museum of American Art is located at 445 North Park Avenue, in Winter Park, Florida. Parking is free.


​The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Museum hours on Sunday are 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Fridays hours are from 1:00 until 8:00 p.m. . Curator tours are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Note that museum entry is free from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Fridays from November through April.

#WinterPark
#Orlando

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Originally published in The Florida Sun
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Call 407-645-5311 for additional information or visit the website www.morsemuseum.org.

​During the Holiday's enjoy LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, free admission and guided tours on FRIDAY nights. (get more here)

by Linda Y. Walters

reprinted from The Florida Sun
Contact Linda at: ​lyw2001@aol.com

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"Sweet Mama's" in Lake Nona, Florida

10/29/2016

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ORLANDO, FL: Got a sweet tooth or a craving for comfort food? Sweet Mama’s lives up to it’s name.

If you’re flying into Orlando, chances are you’re hungry by the time your flight lands. If it is earlier in the day you’re in luck.

Lake Nona is a community ("Medical City" is located here) just a short drive from the airport and, if you’re looking for something beyond the fast food, or chain restaurant airport fare, “Sweet Mama’s” is a great choice.

One of the first businesses to open in the Lake Nona area, “Sweet Mama’s” is a favorite of locals and visitors alike and are known for their homemake cakes and pies.

When I travel I try to seek out the “Mom & Pop” restaurants as a way to see the local culture and, after all, what’s the point of traveling if you’re just going to eat at another location of the same restaurants that are just around the corner from your home?

I had never been to Sweet Mama’s, but was visiting the local Keller Williams real estate office there at Lake Nona and Lorena, one of the Realtors, recommended it. She said they had GREAT brunches with $3 Mimosa’s (true!) but, alas, since it was a Monday, and still early in the day, we had to “settle” for lunch and no alcohol.

When we arrived we were greeted by Lisa, one of the “Sweet Mama’s” herself and we grabbed a high top table by the window.  

They have both indoor, and outdoor, seating, so if it’s a beautiful day, or if you have your dog with you, you can grab an outdoor spot.

They have some kind of special almost every day, and Monday was $6 burger day… for any burger they have.  I choose the mushroom, swiss, with sweet potato fries.  

Our waitress, Yaileen, was super nice, and friendly, giving us a little history of Sweet Mama’s… she had been going there herself since high school, when it was in it’s first location.

There are TWO “Sweet Mama’s” ..Lisa, in the front of the house, and Linda, in the kitchen. Lisa and Linda are longtime friends who always dreamed of opening a quaint eatery. They treat their customers like family… because some of them are!  When Lisa isn’t whipping up family recipes for her own Grandma’s chocolate cake or key lime pie, she’s serving it to her granddaughter.  

When our lunch arrived, I have to say that they messed up my order a tad… giving me regular fries instead of the sweet potato fries. HOWEVER, even though I said it was fine, Lisa brought me out an extra order of sweet potato fries at no charge.  She even made sure to tell us it was her fault, that Yaileen had put in the order correctly. Frankly, I never care if a minor mistake is make with an order... what's important is, when it does happen, that the business makes it right.  THAT earns my loyalty.

My hamburger was PERFECT. I ordered it medium rare and that’s how it came… just slightly pink and juicy.  My boyfriend loved his burger as well and he even saved half, plus the order of fries to take home for his dinner later.

Sweet Mama’s is ONLY open for breakfast and lunch… they close at 3 PM for dining, however they also do “Dinner to Go” (plus catering) with pick up until 6 PM, and with some delicious comfort foods on the menu… like meatloaf, fried catfish, liver and onions, chicken pot pie and chicken and waffles!

Desserts are what "Sweet Mama's is known for... homemade, fresh, delightful AND, best of all, available for you to take home for your family or special event.  While they have seasonal favorites, they also have a core selection they make all the time, including...

Everyday Pies: Apple, Cherry, Blueberry, Coconut Cream, Key Lime and Peanut Butter.

Everyday Cakes: Carrot Cake, Banana Cake, Red Velvet, Grandma Mildred’s Chocolate Cake, Extreme Chocolate Cake w/Buttercream Frosting, Gluten Free Chocolate, Peanut Butter Squares AND Smores Brownies w/homemade caramel sauce

We’ve already talked about going back there for brunch to get those $3 Mimosas AND because I saw they make my FAVORITE type of Eggs Benedict… with corned beef hash instead of Canadian bacon. If you’ve never had Eggs Benedict this way you should try it. You’d think the flavors of the corned beef and hollandaise would be too intense together, but they are not… it’s amazing.

Of course, I'm already making  a "mental note" to get some Extreme Chocolate Cake with Buttercream Frosting to take home.

Sweet Mama’s is just 16 minutes away from the Orlando International Airport, take the South exit out of the Airport and head East on 417 to Narcoossee Road exit, then go North just a bit.  It’s on your way if you’re flying in to go to the beaches, and a bit out of the way if you’re heading for Disney, SeaWorld or the International Drive area.  Regardless though, I bet you’ll find it worth your time.

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Ask for Yaileen!
Check out directions and more information right here:
​
SweetMamasRestaurant.com
10743 Narcoossee Rd Suite A23 
Orlando, FL 32832
Phone: (407) 282-7737
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Home cooking, family friendly

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​Sue Copening is a writer and Exec Director of the ConnectionsGroups.com, a Central Florida Business networking organization.

If you'd like a feature story about your travel or tourism related business, get more information here.

Contact Sue at TravelWritingPartners@gmail.com
or 407-443-0348


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Orlando's Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

10/8/2016

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ORLANDO: An exciting fall lineup of events will be presented at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts over the next few months. There’s a fabulous concert line up, the first ever introduction of a popular television game show (The Price is Right) and much more.
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There’s literally something for everyone with highlights for those who are particularly entranced with solid performances by talented artists. ​
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​An exciting fall lineup of events will be presented at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts over the next few months. There’s a fabulous concert line up, the first ever introduction of a popular television game show (The Price is Right) and much more.

There’s literally something for everyone with highlights for those who are particularly entranced with solid performances by talented artists. 

For the full line up and ticket availability, go to Center’s website at: http://www.drphillipscenter.com or call the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts box office at 844- 513-2014. 
 
If acrobatics is your thing, be sure to come out on Thursday, December 1 to see SHANGHAI ACROBATS, from the People’s Republic of China, as they perform “Shanghai Nights.” This incredible celebration of world music and dance will delight and enthrall your senses.  

The recent winner of five Tony awards, including “Best Play,” will appeal to those of you who simply love Broadway drama. “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time” comes to the Dr. Philips Center as part of their North American Tour on November 1st through 6th.

Winner of five Outer Critics Circle Awards, including “Outstanding New Broadway Play” and the Drama League Award for “Outstanding Production of a Broadway or Off Broadway Play,” this amazing production more than lives up to its intriguing title. 

Tickets for The Price is Right Live go on sale on Friday, September 30 at 10:00 a.m. with prices starting at $36.50. With Contestants winning cash prizes, appliances, vacations and possibly even a new car, the excitement of this long running television game show now translates to a live experience right here in Central Florida. Open to U.S. legal resident of 18 years or older. 

In its first two years of operation, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts has surpassed its original projections in attendance as well as its schedule of amazing productions. The Center has also generously donated close to another $2 million in value to community projects, events and amenities.
 
Now in its third year of excellence, the Dr Phillips Center is currently looking forward to completing its fund raising element for Phase 2 of the Center which will focus on adding the 1,700 seat Steinmetz Hall. With attendance of more than 302,500 guests in the past two years and more than 330 performances by incredibly diverse theatrical companies and performing artists, the confirmed success of this amazing state of the art performance venue is golden. 
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Want the line up for 2018
​and beyond?


Visit the Center's website for the​
​full line up and tickets:

http://www.drphillipscenter.com
​or call the box office at 844- 513-2014. ​
In its first two years of operation, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts has surpassed its original projections in attendance as well as its schedule of amazing productions. The Center has also generously donated close to another $2 million in value to community projects, events and amenities.
 
Now in its third year of excellence, the Dr Phillips Center is currently looking forward to completing its fund raising element for Phase 2 of the Center which will focus on adding the 1,700 seat Steinmetz Hall. With attendance of more than 302,500 guests in the past two years and more than 330 performances by incredibly diverse theatrical companies and performing artists, the confirmed success of this amazing state of the art performance venue is golden. 
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By Linda Y. Walters, columnist

reprinted from The Florida Sun
contact Linda: lyw2001@aol.com
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Historic August Seven Inn

8/29/2016

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Good "Medicine" for the Soul
​Daytona Beach, Florida

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The August Seven Inn was originally a guest house built in 1896 by James N. Gamble of the famed Proctor and Gamble Company and is listed on the National Historic Register.
​What IS a "stress onion," and what can you do about it?

I've found the answer. Though, to be honest, I wasn't expecting much when we booked our room at the August 7 Inn in Daytona Beach, Florida. Sure, we looked at all the pictures on the website and even commented on the beautiful decor, but I was still skeptical all the same. 

There had been too many B&B's that we have visited in the past where their website looked top notch and elegant, taken before the place was opened and was fresh and new. But upon arriving we found them to be run down, smelly, even unkempt. Truly as if we were visiting an elderly relative.

Not so at the August 7 Inn...

Upon our arrival we were greeted by the Innkeeper and Owner, Joe. ("Hi, I'm Joe. Welcome, please come in...") His demeanor was welcoming and quietly comforting, like we were old friends. I liked him immediately. One layer of the stress onion peeled off and I began to look around.

Inside the house it is serene and beautiful. And tastefully decorated. Joe showed us about the first floor explaining about each room. The massage chair room, (no, no, too tense for that yet...more on that later) the elegant Victorian inspired living room, which led into the dining room, then the wonderful outdoor wrap around porch. 

An array of treats awaited us in the kitchenette, including coffee, tea, sodas, popcorn, water, even an entire bookshelf of DVD's to choose from were available 24/7. ("Help yourself to drinks at your leisure, two for a dollar. We operate on an honor system, so just drop the money in the honor box, which is hanging on the wall".)   Wow, he trusts us.
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Each room was sparkling clean and looked as if they were never sat in or used. But Joe assured us that we were welcome to enjoy and relax wherever we wanted, whenever we wanted. (Not at all the controlling, stuffy innkeeper who forbids you to touch this or sit there.) "It's just stuff, you are welcome here, please make yourself at home." Another layer of the "stress onion" peeled off, and magically a little more stress evaporated into thin air.

Joe graciously answered all of our questions and gave a brief overview of the "story of the Inn." It's quite a story, you'll have to ask Joe to tell you sometime.

By the time we were heading upstairs to visit our room, my husband and I were beginning to relax, feeling as if we were going to enjoy this place. "Oh, by the way, can I get you a complimentary bottle of wine?" Joe asked. 

Oh yes, we are definitely going to enjoy this place.

Our room, the 1022, was exotic and comfortably roomy. It was elegantly decorated in a safari theme, not at all tacky and sparkling clean. (I have to admit, I looked under the bed and behind the furniture for dust, and there was none.) Dark woods, elegant fabrics and soft fluffy pillows made this room perfect for relaxing and spending quality conversation time with the one I love. Ahh, and the jacuzzi tub...Perfect!  The mood of the room lifted our spirits another notch. Another layer of the stress onion gone... (In fact, I was so inspired by the theme of the room, that upon returning home, I redecorated our own bedroom in a similar fashion).

In the evening, Joe puts out a buffet of snacks and candies for his guest to enjoy. Soft music is playing. The lights are dim and romantic. It was a perfect April evening, just cool enough to sit comfortably on the veranda and sip a glass of wine and nibble on Joe's homemade treats. Our favorite spot was the corner overlooking the lawn watching the world go by...

What, are there any layers left to peel away? No, I think we have reached the core...
No work, No Kids, No pets, No obligations, No stress...
"Really?" I ask myself, "No Stress? Check again."
I look over at my husband who is smiling and say to myself, "Yup, it's gone."

Breakfast on the veranda is a wonderful experience. Joe puts out a spread you wouldn't believe. With 5 different types of pancakes, fresh fruit, fruit and nut breads, cereal, juice, not to mention bacon, waffles, and pastries. He goes all out to make sure his guests are satisfied.

​Before embarking on our day of exploration we treated ourselves to a visit in the massage chairs. Ahh, what a magical experience. The room is a relaxing garden theme, the chairs are state of the art "Human Touch" massage chairs which are remote controlled to massage every muscle in your body exactly the way you want it. The experience was heavenly and left me rejuvenated and ready to take on the day.


Two days later, I began to feel that feeling you get when it's time to go home. "Can't we stay?" We ask Joe. "Of course," Joe says.
"We'll put you on speed dial." we say.
"Yes, certainly, come any time." Joe says.
"But I don't want to go." I say to my husband.
"I know, me either."

Now, one month later...What is that feeling in my stomach? There is a tightness, an unwelcome feeling that I don't like. Something that has been building up for a few weeks...Ahh, yes. It's Stress...

Time to go visit The August 7 Inn again. You can too. Just visit their website to make reservations:

August Seven Inn, Daytona Beach, Florida: http://a7inn.com
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The Hendrickson Family
Dawn Hendrickson
TropicalMusicInternational.com

Dawn and Steve Hendrickson are busy talent agents and the owners of Tropical Music International.  

The Hendricksons live in Orlando and supply entertainment and talent all across world, as well as being wholesale distributors for Jimmy Buffett, Bob Marley, Kenny Chesney and the finest Hawaiian Artists and Steel Drum Bands.

Clients include the Ritz Carlton, Sirius Radio, the PGA, Carnival Cruise Lines, the Orlando Magic, Miami Dolphins, City Walk, and the Islands of St. Lucia, Grenada, Caymans, and the British Virgin Isles.
​

Learn more at: http://TropicalMusicInternational.com
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Exploring Florida: Kelly Park, Rock Springs Run, Central Florida

7/23/2016

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Exploring Florida
Tubing at Kelly Park.
Rock Springs Run

Central Florida, NW of Orlando
Ninja Level – 2 out of 5
Budget - $ (take cash)

As a lifelong Florida resident I have, sadly, not even begun to cover all the opportunities for adventure and leisure, that it has to offer. You could really spend a lifetime visiting all the unique parks, springs, towns and historical spots within the state... where to start?

Recently though we made a pledge to get off our couch, get out and explore. I'd heard a lot about Rock Springs in Kelly Park and it was close enough for a half day adventure.

I really didn't know what to expect before visiting the park, though I did a quick online search for basic information. It costs (cash only) $3 per car with 1-2 people, $5 for 3-8 and $1 for each extra person in case you've got folks strapped on the roof or something.
  • Click here for link to the park website for more details.

The springs are the perfect place to go in the HOT Florida summer (I frankly find the beaches as attractive an idea as inserting myself in my toaster oven). There are plenty of shade trees and the water is (“Rock Springs” – duh) from a SPRING... meaning it is COOL. Not so cold that you don't adjust to it pretty darn quick, but cool enough that you absolutely feel refreshed.

As we were getting close to the park we stopped just outside at an intersection with a gas station on one side and a place to rent TUBES on the other (no tube rental inside the park). To rent a tube they ask you to leave them your ID (as sort of a deposit to insure you come back), and tubes are just $5 each to rent (take cash for these too). If you have a good sized trunk the tubes will just stack in there and probably not bounce out as you only have a short distance to get to the park (though some people will just stick their hand out the window and hold the tube). Total cost for 3 people: $5 entrance, plus 3 tubes = $20 for an entire day of fun! You can bring your own tubes and floats as well... though be aware they cannot be longer than 5 feet in length (a lot of blow up rafts are 6-7 ft).

We were not planning to stay the whole day so we didn't eat in the park, but you can certainly do that. The park has BBQ grills and picnic tables scattered under the trees and, if you're just feeling lazy, you can pick up sandwiches on your way there or buy food at the park's concession stand where they have hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream and drinks. Don't bring alcohol or beer though... it's not allowed and, with the number of kids and families there, anyone that is drunk or disorderly is sure to feel the wrath of “Florida Redneck Father” - a common, and occasionally frightening, creature best left unprovoked.


Upon arrival we grabbed our tubes from the trunk of the car and headed down to the Springs to check things out. A little tip: Lock your valuables in the car and put your car key (but not remote) on a lanyard around your neck. This way you won't risk losing the keys by having them fall out of your pocket while swimming, or have to worry about someone stealing them.

The layout of the Springs is such that you will first encounter an area that is about midway from the springs headwaters to the end of the “run.” If you just want to float around a bit, there are stairs to make it easy to get down to the water; so just go for it. Even if you are partially disabled or less limber, it's easy to get in here and you can then float to the end of the “run,” get out on a ramp there and take the tree lined sidewalk back to the midway point. This aspect makes tubing in Rock Springs great for the whole family and we saw many grandparents enjoying the water.


If you want to float down the whole length of the “run,” which is more like a slow stroll down a “lazy river,” then you can take a series of boardwalks up to the springs headwaters. Here you will find it a little trickier to get into the water if you are not limber, because the rocks are a tad slippery. I would certainly not recommend it for anyone that is disabled in any way because slipping on the rocks could leave you with a nasty injury. I did see a rather overweight gentleman manage to navigate an entrance into the water just fine, although it took him a bit of time to figure out the safest way.


The “run” itself takes you down a mostly tree shaded river surrounded by flowers and wildlife. We encountered some Ibis birds that were so intent on nabbing their insect breakfast, and so used to people, they allowed us to come within 4 feet of them. There was also a bit of drama as the park rangers briefly closed off a fork in the river when someone spotted an alligator. It was a baby gator so it was more to protect it, than the noisy humans, but from the level of excitement in the crowd you'd think it was an extraterrestrial.


If you have a waterproof camera or one of the new waterproof smart phones, bring it! You'll be able to capture some great photos of foliage, flowers and maybe even wildlife.


One of the things I liked most about the “lazy river” part of the park is that it is a combination of floating down and walking back. It takes about 25-30 minutes or so to float from the head-springs to the end of the run... and only about 10 minutes to walk back on a beautiful shady path to do it again. This makes it a perfect way to both relax AND get a bit of moderate exercise.


Another thing I liked is that they close the park when it reaches capacity... meaning, while it can get a bit crowded,it's not so overcrowded you can't enjoy yourself.


A word of warning though; you must get there early as the park often reaches capacity very quickly after opening (8:00 am opening time). We were there by 9:00 on a Monday (during summer vacation when the kids are out of school) and they had closed the park already when we left at Noon. The park is open until sunset and they do let additional vehicles in after 1 pm, IF enough of the earlier visitors have left. If you're driving a distance to get there though.. best to plan an early arrival (8-9 am) to avoid disappointment and so you won't have to wait in too long a line to get in and parked.


Kelly Park Rock Springs Run is part of Florida's State Park system and is only about 40 minutes from downtown Orlando and 45-50 minutes from International Drive, making it convenient for a day, or half day, adventure for locals and tourists alike.

Author: Sue Copening

TravelWritingPartners@gmail.com

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