FLORA, FAUNA AND FREAKIN' HOT!

Our last hike of the season here in Florida did not let us down as far as wildlife goes. It was around 90 degrees F. but was definately worth the walk.  It is mating season for the gators so they were on the move for sure.  They could be seen crossing from on pond or lake to another.  Even though I didn't get a very good shot, the Bald Eagle could be seen sitting in the nest. 

IT'S A BUGS LIFE

ONLY IN ROMA!

What I miss the most about visiting Rome, Italy is the Piazza's.  A Piazza is basically a gathering place where there is a large open space with benches and basically people come to sit and chat and relax.  You would see the Nonna's watching their grandchildren play and the men would chat and smoke.  It was community.  We need that in our society to connect with each other.  The man above was just reading his morning paper and enjoying the fresh air.

FLYWHEELERS

If you know me, then you will know that I love to talk to people and hear their stories and learn a little about them.  I look for people that have interesting faces that I would like to photograph.  These two gentlemen were at a Flywheelers Event which sports all types of steam engines and just about anytype of wheel!

ORANGES....OH YA!

LET THE TRUMPETS SOUND!

The Trumpet Vine has literally taken over in some places in Florida.  The pictures above show how this vine will completely cover a tree if left unattended.  It is a very hard vine to control once planted.

MOSSY OAKS

Most of the oak trees in Southern Florida are covered with Spanish Moss.  It leaves a spooky feel as you saunter through them.  I have used this very moss in the flower shop where I use to work for flower arrangements.  Who'd a thought!

JUST A WALK IN THE PARK

My daughter-in-law Stephanie and my two grandsons Noah and Cody came to Florida for a visit.  They enjoyed the hike to see the alligators and many other wildlife.

FLORIDA WILDLIFE

 RED BELLIED TURTLE

GREEN IGUANA