Birthday Visit

So with our extra day at Marnineland Marina we decided to stroll across the street to Marineland and feed the dolphins. The first feeding only had us with 1 other couple so we were able to spend a bit more time entertaining our dolphin, Sonny. We were able to rub his back and stomach but the best part was watching Pam take the raw fish in her hand to feed him! Of course they don't allow you to take your own camera in to the feeding area so the only pictures we have are a couple they took that we of course had to buy.
Once outside the "secure" area we were able to take a few shots.

Where's my fish?

See me jump!

Marineland was started back in the 30's but hit hard times when the Orlando theme parks opened. Fortunately the Atlanta Aquarium stepped in and took it over in recent years and infused some much needed cash. The focus now is more on research than entertainment but it is still a great attraction without the crowds of a Sea World.

Wednesday 5/16/12     Having exhausted the things to do around the marina we set off for St. Augustine and Rivers Edge Marina. Our primary reason for choosing Rivers Edge was a cheap price on fuel. It's pumped right off the truck for $3.85 a gallon which is about 30 cents a gallon cheaper than anywhere nearby. The marina is a little off the beaten path up the San Sebastian River but still within walking distance of downtown if you like to walk!
Pam & I took the opportunity to use the marinas 3 wheel bicycle to go to Winn Dixie and West Marine a few blocks down the street. Unfortunately the camera was buried under groceries by the time we thought of taking a picture. That evening we went next door to Hurricane Patty's for a drink and dinner. When we arrived the place was packed. We managed to get a drink but finding a place to sit for dinner looked pretty grim. Finally the manager found us a table in a corner next to the stage. Yep. I said stage. Wednesday night is karaoke night! Much to our surprise these people were GOOD! There may have been only 1 or 2 mediocre singers in the group and it was a big group. The DJ had them on a 2 hour rotation. I'm sure some of these folks had sung professionally in the past.
Pam & I enjoyed the singing and the meal was good making for a great night!

Hurricane Patty's

San Sebastian River.

Thursday 5/17/12     After a lazy morning we floated on the tide back down the San Sebastian to the ICW. We turned toward downtown St. Augustine and the City Marina to be in position for daughter Angela's and her husband Doug's arrival. The benefit of the City Marina is that it's right in the heart of the historic district. You fall out of the boat and land in history.

Our company arrived later in the afternoon and settled in for a 3 night stay to celebrate Ange's birthday. During their stay we of course checked out the sights on a trolley tour. Walked the historic district. Found a candy store. Ate at Osteen's restaurant where my mother ate her first shrimp many years ago. Went to the beach. And of course played a couple of games of dominoes. Some pictures of our time together.

Tourists

Candy Little Girl?

Trolley Riders

Ange & Doug

Heading to the beach

Beachcombers

Good Shrimp

Birthday Girl!

Daughter & Dad

Why is it that time goes so fast when you're with the ones you care the most about? All too soon it was time for Ange & Doug to head back home. Although their visit was short it was great to see them and spend time with them on our turf.
We'll spend the rest of Sunday getting ready to head north all while keeping an eye on Tropical Storm Alberto who just formed off the Carolina coast.