Winter Break

We have had an old fashion winter in Michigan,lots of snow, but then it thaws and we begin to think of the possibility of spring. Time after time, just when we think it's the last snow plow or sidewalk shovel, here comes the snow, like today. Yesterday it was 50 F. I wouldn't call us snow birds, by any stretch of the imagination, but last month we needed to step away from snow for more than a day or two. Must be the entire country is experiencing interesting weather, we did head south but not necessarily to warm weather but lots of warm southern hospitality. How fun to spend an evening with Angie's family. Aunt Patsy made us a wonderful beef stew and cornbread muffins, yum! After breakfast with a candle on his blueberry muffin, Tom celebrates again after dinner! Mary & Larry surprise Tom with a cake and party for his big birthday. We hadn't been to Gulf Shores AL since spring break in 1995. The area has many more businesses but the beach remains pristine. This day was about 40F and blustery. Mary doesn't let grass grow under her feet, she is a woman on the move, very good for me. We hiked (Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge), walked, shopped and went geo-caching. Spent an afternoon at the beach flying kites and wonderful meals (thanks Larry for the beer butt chicken and fresh shrimp). I learned to play dominoes and we visited a couple local joints. Here are a few pics of beach and surf and a heron sneaking up on a bucket of ghost shrimp. Those pelicans are riding a wave from a lake, must be lots of fish under the water. Years ago, Tom had this kite in the air all afternoon but this day it remained on the beach. It didn't begin to dampen the beauty of wind, sun, salt air and the joy of being at this beautiful place in February. Thanks Mary & Larry for your invitation and hospitality. No picture of Larry who is working in his home office with his assistant, Rock. Stay tuned for Winter Break in Savannah.