Monday, July 6, 2009

Cruisin' the Carribean

We suddenly decided to go on a cruise for our 10th anniversary (10th?!?!). So, in late April, we did a 5 night cruise in the Carribean, stopping in Key West and the Grand Cayman Islands, plus two days at sea. It was fantastic.

While in the Grand Caymans, we swam with sting rays (and kissed 'em, too!) despite the choppy waves. It was a little intimidating for me (Bonnie) since I float incredibly well so couldn't get stabilized in the chest deep swelling water. And, of course, by the time I got my bearings all the squid to feed them with were gone (stupid seagulls -- "Mine"!) But we still enjoyed our excursion to the beach and those clear, clear waters.

We also enjoyed our private balcony! I've decided that if one is looking to really escape, that's the way to do it.












It was a fantastic boat - not too big, not too small. Of course, the food was incredible! I had to try escargot and was pleasantly surprised! We had great weather throughout, but did encounter some choppier waters on the last night. Of course, that night a juggler was performing. Couldn't believe how skilled he was to handle all the extra swaying while still performing!




After the 5 day cruise, we spent an additional 4 days at a little beach cottage in Key Largo. We could snorkel and kayak anytime we wanted. We went on a glass bottom boat and got queasy, but nothing problematic.











All in all it was a wonderful trip! I'm keeping my eyes open for last minute cruise deals!

Birth of a Fawn


There are some beautiful things you just can't describe... this is one of them. Now, perhaps it won't be for you, but for us it was a few minutes of incredible.

This is on our property, and we just happened to notice a doe lying strangely on her side. She got up and would sit right back down - and we noticed she was very pregnant. So, also noticing that she wasn't chewing her cud but was heaving a bit, we came to suspect she was in labor. She moved out of clear view of her whole body, but we saw and captured the whole event none the less.

We had seen other fawns that we assumed were but hours old, but after seeing this new little one we were simply stunned at his newness and helplessness. Hope you enjoy the clip... it's several minutes long.