Mom's Birthday in Florida

On a recent trip down to Florida to see Mom on her 83rd birthday, I got to again experience the mid-June Florida weather.  While I really enjoy the warm and humidity, it does take some adjustment.  Like doing most outside jobs earlier in the day and then relaxing by the pool in the afternoon and evening.  I could get used to this I think.  I have some more working life time before retirement.

The photos above were from near the Orlando-Sandford airport.  Interesting white fluffy clouds and the many Florida lakes.  I like feeling that sensation when walking out of the Florida airport terminal and feeling the warm, humid air.  Whether January or June.  A quick walk to pick up a rental car, then an hour drive to Mom's place near the east coast.  My brother, Kevin, also joined me on this trip.  He flies from Indy though.

Family photo of Kevin, Mom, me, and cousin Sam and wife Carol standing.  This is one of the birthday dinners during the 3 day celebration.  A great time at the local Elks Club, having their Friday night steak dinner, and a cold beverage.

While going for my early morning walks, the red flowering trees/bushes are very pretty and certainly tropical looking.  I keep intending to look them up to find out exactly what they are.  Needless to say, we do not have them in Virginia.

The photo above is from the Cape Canaveral National Veteran's Cemetery, that just opened in January of this year and is where Dad was buried in late January.  A WWII navy vet who lived to 88.  We all miss him.

While on the short drive over to Grill's we pass by the hundreds of boats on the dry pavement.  I always wonder what the story is on these older boats.  Unwanted toys from yesterday or just waiting for the new owner to purchase?  Florida must be the boat capital of the world.

Near the docks, this boat hauler fork truck is always amazing for me to watch.  Grabs a boat from the elevated storage in the background, then takes it the short distance to the pier. 

Scene from Grill's waiting for the launch of the Delta IV Heavy rocket to place a secret satellite into orbit.  This was a very fast launch using this particular vehicle.  A main engine with two solid rocket motors on the sides.  Thundering noise and bright white light.  Better photos can be found on the web.

And then finally back by the pool, relaxing, and trying to stay cool.

Mom taught us a new card game this year.  Quite complex, requiring some thought and maybe even skill.  We played every evening until late.  Another great time with family.  Have a good day.