There has been a long lag between blog posts, in large part because we have not moved the boat in nearly a month. Our life here has fallen into a pattern of working on boat projects and enjoying the city. We have really appreciated this relaxed pace which has allowed us to get a lot of things done without rushing.
Nearly every morning we get up and go for an hour long walk through the city's various neighborhoods. After the walk it is time for breakfast and then on to the project for the day. We have redone much of the exterior teak, cleaned and polished the stainless and the brass, re-wired a pump, replaced some water hoses, sanded and refinished the cockpit table and done other "sprucing up." The boat is once again looking pretty sharp and everything seems to be working. Dan also spent the better part of two days getting the dingy motor in working order.
We have also done some of the "touristy stuff" like riding the Green Trolly. The ride takes you through the city and is narrated by well informed drivers who describe what you are seeing in an entertaining way. The Trolly makes 15 stops at points of interests and you can hop off and explore and then re-board when you are ready.
We wandered the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. This is the spot where Ponce deLeon landed in 1513 and claimed Florida for Spain.
We both drank from the Fountain of Youth, and immediately felt refreshed and more youthful.
Peacocks roam freely around the park.
Leaving the park we went down Magnolia Drive. We were informed that National Geographic named this street the 6th most beautiful street in America. We were thinking, "10th at best." The Spanish Moss that hangs heavy from the trees was used by early settlers as stuffing for mattresses. Henry Ford also used it in the seats of the Model T cars he built. The settlers knew that the moss needed to be boiled before using it. Boiling kills the chiggers that live in the moss. Henry Ford didn't and this lead to the nation's first automotive recall.
We viewed the grand hotels that were built in St. Augustine by Henry Flagler.
We have found lots to do here, including the Greek Festival, a Blues Festival, Sangria Sunday and the First Friday Art Walk. We have enjoyed some great meals at local restaurants and a couple of Happy Hours at outdoor bars.
It looks like we will be here for a couple more weeks and this is going to be a tough place to leave.
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