Monkey Business

I spent another wonderful day kayaking the Silver Spring River.  Along the way I ran across this amazing bird.  After a little research, I found out that this is an Anhinga.  He can swim under water in search of fish.  Since he doesn't have water-repelling oil on his wings like a duck, he sits around like this to dry himself off.

I'm not sure what kind of bird this is, but he seemed to be drying himself too.

I'd heard a rumor that there were monkeys living in the area.  One of the stories is that they escaped when they were filming Tarzan movies here in the 1930's.  They were just as cute as could be.

They seemed to be as excited to see me as I was to see them.  I suspect they are often fed by passers by.

Kayaking The Ocklawaha River

When Todd goes back to work, we just find a trailer park RV resort for me to stay for three weeks.  The latest one is in Silver Springs, Florida.  I figured that if you want sun, go to the Sunshine State.  Well, its been cold here.  We finally got a day warm enough to wear shorts, so I took advantage of it by kayaking the Ocklawaha river. 

Florida is like a foreign country to me.  I've never seen turtles in the wild before.  I asked a fisherman if there were any gators in the area and he assured me there weren't.  He said that it was too cold and there was too much activity in the area.

Imagine my surprise when I was looking around and caught a glimpse of this.  My heart sank a little and I paddled a little faster.  I couldn't help thinking that I know what to do if I encounter a bear or moose, but I have no idea what alligator protocal is. 

This guy is just reflecting on his life.

Trekkin' Cross Country

After spending a couple of months in Quartzsite, AZ., we decided to head for the beaches of Florida.  One of the places we stayed along the way was Palmetto State Park in Texas.  It felt like staying in a jurassic rainforest. 

 

We were so tired of driving we decided to spend a few days in Port St. Joe, Florida. 

We spent a couple of days combing the beaches.  We have started a collection of seashells, sand dollars, and starfish.

The Holidays in Quartzsite

Juan and Dana were able to come to Quartzsite after Christmas.  They brought most of the kids and a couple of  friends.  We all climbed "Q" Mountain just for the great photo.

Desert American Gothic

The Harrop Family Christmas Party

We happened to be in Utah the weekend of the Harrop Family Christmas Party.  I'd forgotten what a great party it is.

Our snazzy outfits were the result of some unfortunate luck in a game.  It turns out Grandma Harrop it still pretty quick.

When I see my nephews, it's very clear that they get their senses of humor from their Dads.

Quartzsite, Arizona

We've spent the last couple of months at my folks place in Quartzsite, Arizona.  Aside from the cheap rent, we've also been treated to some really great cooking and entertainment.  I didn't realize how much there is to do in the desert, but it has been a new adventure everyday.  We've been riding ATVs, exploring old mining towns, hiking, and shopping at the swap meets.  Kenzie is also visiting for winter break  and I am enjoying having her here.

ATV Quartzsite

Our friends Mike and Bernie from Fairbanks also have a condo not too far away.  Since we were in Arizona at the same time, they came to Quartzsite for a bit.  We have a great day riding ATVs and checking out the area.  Dad knows his way around the Quartzsite back country and is an excellent tour guide.