FLORIDA 2009

We spent a long week-end in mid-October visiting Lori's mother, Carole in Leesburg, Florida.  The flight down to Tampa was non-stop from Columbus and a completely full flight.  We think everyone else had the same idea to escape the very cool weather.  When we left Columbus the temperature was in the mid 50's and when we landed in Tampa the temperature was 97 degrees. Whew!!!!

We spent the evening getting caught up on all the family news and such and made plans to visit the Kennedy Space Center on Friday. 

  Dave at the Kennedy Space Center 

   We actually got a glimpse of the shuttle itself.                  A shuttle engine on display a few horsepower there.

On Saturday, Sanji, Annette, Carole, Dave and Lori found their way to Yalaha, a fabulous German bakery for breakfast.  The pastries were awesome and the freshly made bread looked wonderful but we did not try any.  Next on the agenda, a place called "The Villages".  A fascinating "over 55" community that covers approximately 3 counties.  There are 2 main shopping squares that we visited while watching the flurry of golf carts whizz by.

   Hot Rod cart.

  Sanji and Lori in a deep discussion                                         The mission style church at Spanish Springs.                  

          A very New England look for the town square.                             

         Carole, Annette and Lori solving problems of the world.                                 The many golf carts in this community

Dave, Lori, Annette and Sanji at the Town Square at The Villages.      I think Lori has something in her eye.

Saturday night we had a dinner with Carole's neighbors totaling 12 people.  Since it was still very hot and muggy, we ate indoors around the television so not to miss any of the college football action.  The steak dinner was enjoyed by all!

Afterwards there was a meeting of minds.   Lori, Carole and Tippy.  No gators.

Sunday we enjoyed church service at a little church in the country.  I think there were approximately 30 people including the 2 altar boys, minister, videographer and organist.  It was a great fellowship!

We had a great week-end visiting Carole and meeting her friends and neighbors. 

Last, but not least Carole's companion, Tippy.