Westward Ho!

Live Oak Landing
Freeport, FL
January 1, 2014

December 21 was our last trip to the beach. We chose a public access in Destin... James Lee Park. Its a nice park with picnic tables, dune walkovers, a playground and restrooms.

It was a little chilly with mostly cloudy skies and a strong breeze...even a little mist.

We saw a small sampling of gulls, pigeons and plovers. 






Some of them were just as confused about the weather as we were! 

We didn't get to the beach as much as I would have liked to during our 2 months here. We had way too many cold, rainy days.

 

I will miss the sound of the crashing waves, the smell of the salty air, the way the sand feels, and the beautiful, entertaining  birds. Until next time...

Last Sunday, we met Barry and Millie at the Alaqua Animal Refuge. Its located on 10 acres just outside Freeport.

 The refuge was founded in 2007 when a local resident discovered that countless animals were being euthanized due to the lack of a no-kill shelter/adoption agency in the area. 

It was just like being on a farm.

Alaqua believes that every abused, neglected, and homeless animal deserves a second chance.

 Alaqua has helped over 5,000 animals find a home since 2007.

Currently, up to 100 animals are adopted per month from this unique shelter which serves as a true refuge for more than 250 animals at any given time.

Horse stable

I was not allowed to take pictures of the horses as most of the them are involved in cruelty cases and were removed from the owner.  Some of them were old and sway back and some were young...



There are 2 cat houses...one just for kittens and the other for adults...both with fans and air conditioning.

Adult cat house

The kennels for the pups were great because each pup had its own space...an outside run with toys and feeding/water bowls and an inside spot with a bed and blanket.

Dog Kennels

 

 On the way home, Joe and I stopped at the H A Laird City Park. We have passed it several times before but on this day we decided to check it out.

It is a small but interesting park nestled along Four Mile Creek.  As a result of all the rain we have been experiencing, the creek was way outside its banks... picnic tables and grills scattered among the trees were almost under water.

                                               

 

We thought the white sandy creek bottom, partially covered with leaves showing through the translucent tannin water, was interesting.  It revealed the true color of the tannin water that makes creeks look almost black. 

Nicely constructed raised boardwalks with small nooks and benches follow the course of the winding creek providing cozy  overlook areas to sit and enjoy the birds.

We were happy to have discovered this wonderful little hidden park.

As much as I love the Florida beaches, I have to say I am excited about heading west...so "Westward Ho" ! That's old cowboy talk for   "Lets get the wagon train moving!".  I was curious about why you use the word "Ho". It seems it originated in 1250-1300 and was used as a call to attract attention, especially after a word denoting a destination.

 

We can hardly wait! We pull out Sunday, January 5th. Our first stop will be in Winnie, TX to visit the Anahauc National Wildlife Refuge.  I hope we will be able to meet Judy(Travels with Emma), a fellow blogger and refuge volunteer. I  have my fingers crossed for nice weather and the possibility of seeing a curved bill Ibis. Then a stop in Houston to see friends Gary and Judy who we met last August in Maob. After that, we're off to Arizona for a rendezvous with Ron, Carol & Cooper.  We can't wait to dust off our hiking boots and hit the mountain and desert trails!

 

Creamy White Chili Recipe

Live Oak Landing
Freeport, FL
December 30, 2013

Yummy comfort food!

My version...I cook a whole chicken (I rub the canola oil on it after I wash it.) in the crockpot the day before. Next day, I shred the chicken, add all the ingredients except the sour cream and whipping cream to the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. I sometimes add more broth to make sure the chicken is completely covered. Also, I only use one can of chopped chilies. Before serving, I add the sour cream and whipping cream and stir until the sour cream dissolves. We usually have a salad and saltines!       Enjoy!