February 3 - February 11

I was glad to cut our visit to Lake Okeechobee short. It was just an Ok place. However,  I did get to see the Okeechobee Locks where, back in the 70's, my parents and I, in our 30 ft sailboat were to pass through en route from the east coast to the west coast of Florida. Unfortunately, engine trouble prevented us from making it to Okeehobee so it was fun to see what might have been.

                              

Our next destination, Lake Kissimmee State Park was about a two hour drive away. The  drive on state roads was very pleasant, passing through cattle country and then through orange groves. After a stop at Publix in Lake Wales for groceries we checked in at the Park. Lake Kissimmee is one of my favourite state parks. With 5030 acres of land there is something for everybody with  hiking, biking, kayaking, and observing the many animals of particular interest to us. So far, we have seen deer, wild turkeys, eagles and an eagle's nest, many other birds, plus an armadillo. Although the temperatures have been below normal, the daytime temps have been ideal for hiking. 

          

We spent one rainy day exploring the town of Lake Wales and came upon a Mardi Gras Festival while searching out a recommended restaurant. The weather didn't keep people away as the streets were lined with people waiting for the parade and enjoying some of the great smelling street food.

Mardi Gras day was followed by many cool days here at Lake Kissimmee. However most days were great for hiking. In the past seven days, we have hiked about 60 km.