January 6 to 10, 2014. From Fajardo, to Venice, via Auburn.

Having been in Puerto Rico for 21 days, the condo felt very much like home. I had to remind myself that the incredible ocean view, warm breezes, bright sunshine, and stunning beaches of Puerto Rico were temporary and that vacations do come to an end. Although the climate and accommodations were wonderful, the best part of the trip was spending time with family, particularly my daughters and their spouses. 

              

Although our flight to Atlanta was delayed we felt fortunate to be getting on a plane as we encountered people at the San Juan airport who had been stuck there for days due to the extremely cold, snowy weather in the north. We experienced our own blast of what felt like Arctic air as we walked from the airport in Atlanta to the shuttle bus. The temperature was around 12*F; unseasonably cold for Atlanta. The car doors needed an extra tug to open as they were frozen.

The cold snap lasted a couple of days in Auburn and so we bundled up with hats, gloves, and vests to walk the dog. However, it never seems as cold in Auburn because when the sun is shining, which it is a lot of the time, it is brilliant sunshine with clear blue skies. Jackie doesn't seem to mind the low temperatures and eagerly waited for her lead to be attached each time she saw  a hat go near my head. 

Our friend in Venice had invited us to stay with her for the month of January and so after a couple of days in Auburn we said our "see you in the spring" good byes and exchanged heartfelt hugs we hit the road for the nine hour drive to Venice. My new van, "Precious" is a pleasure to drive on the highway. Unlike my Westy, it has a speedy 8 cylinder engine which can easily handle the US Interstate highways. 

                                   

We arrived in Venice shortly after 6 and were greeted with hugs and a delicious meal. It wasn't long before we changed into shorts. Ahhh...back to warm temperatures. January will be spent hanging out, biking, golf and whatever else come our way. I love retirement!