EVERGLADES AND ALLIGATORS

It is so hot and sunny that the doggies don't even mind staying in the house. Not us, however ... the "J's" are raring to go and I've been wanting to visit the Everglades for some time; so we're going to do that very thing. Paul is working and Larry has to stay home because the pool electrician finally showed up. (Perhaps it won't be too long before the new pool is ready to fill!) The three of us are going for an airboat ride amongst the alligators and other swamp life ... exciting!



The Safari spot isn't too far away and we arrived minutes before the next boat was to take off. Each airboat (a heavy water vehicle with a huge outboard motor propelled by large fan-type blades) holds twenty people seated no more than five abreast. The boat travels across the swampy water (laden with lilypad-type plants) effortlessly because it's kinda airborne ... goes fast, pausing for us to see large alligators sunning themselves on logs or muddy rocks. The navigator explained alligator habits and told of the other wildlife - turtles, birds, snakes (ugh). We learned a few things about the plant-life, the local Indians and how they used almost everything to live. Interesting and not too heavily laden with scientific terminology.

While we were stopped to listen to the navigator, ask questions and take pictures, Jason really didn't care for the large alligator swimming up to the boat. He took a picture, but sat down rather hastily when the 'gator touched his snout to the boat (on Jason's side) and Jas' began to wonder if these reptiles ever tried to climb in. He just didn't care for that sort of thing ... and those dudes are really big; thrashing about and swimming to a destination that only THEY know about. Our airboat resumed its trip, much to Jason's relief, and he questioned the navigator about alligator "attacks". She said they are relatively "leery" of humans unless provoked. In the seven years she's been there, she had to use her"weapon" perhaps five times. That said, Jason was glad he didn't have to alligator wrestle!!

The entire trip was approximately 40 minutes. We went to a small amphitheater where a gal told us about alligators and crocodiles and demonstrated a few things. Upon leaving, she offered a small, baby 'gator to anyone who wanted to hold it. Jen said absolutely "no way"; I momentarily thought about it (really momentarily). Guess who stepped up and had his picture taken holding the little guy? Yep ... Jason!!

We left to return home, stopping on the way at Ray's BBQ ... pit-roasted meats (all kinds, even alligator) served outside, ranch style. Nice breezy place for our midday repast. We hit the road again, passing a large Casino that the "J's" and Paul were going to hit; but time is running out ...

Paul still working; Larry still with the electrician. The three of us decided to soak up some of that sun. We donned our beach apparel and made a trip to nearby Doral. Very refreshing! Tonight we're grilling out ... burgers (with Jen's famous carmelized onions), hot dogs, chips, etc. Talk of the Chicago Bullocks making their return trip home ... a glance at American Idol show ... laughter ... to bed for the night ... Tomorrow??

Guess this is where I leave you all. By the by - any pictures related to trips hither and yon have been posted on Facebook. Guess that's easier than adding them here.

Love to all,

Marmaduke