Sunday, February 9, 2014

Wakulla Springs State Park

About a week ago, we went to Wakulla Springs State Park with my parents and another couple for the day. We have been here once before, when we visited Florida a few years ago on vacation. Wakulla Springs is home to one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. Both times we have visited the park in the winter and we hope to visit again when it's summer to see the changes along the river and forest.

On the guided boat tour, we were not disappointed. We viewed a wide range of ducks, birds, turtles, fish, alligators and manatees. It is amazing to see such a sanctuary for wildlife up-close. Manatees are only around in the winter here, to take advantage of the warm spring water during the winter. Alligators are not as common around the beach, but here (inland Florida), it is hard not to spot one along the river.

Here is a collection of the sights of the day:












Alligator having a staring contest with flock of vultures



Manatees, the log-like shapes under the water, chilling by the spring.

The biggest gator of the day!

 After our boat tour and lunch, Zachary and I went on a short hike in the woods in the park.



Cypress knees



Duh! Don't have to tell me twice.

Moody Blues

Ta-da! Rainstorm! Can you feel the rain on your face in the kitchen? We can, and that is okay with us!

I think our kitchen gaining an eclectic vibe to it, with the contrasting colors, finishes and styles. I am still not certain how it will tie together in the end when finished.

This kitchen is nothing like what I had in mind originally, but through the months of editing and re-editing our plan on the fly, we are enjoying this quirky second cousin of a kitchen.

We are nearing the finish line with our dear kitchen. Feels good.

  • Order and install foam ceiling tiles
  • Design, build and install backlit stained glass above cabinetry
  • Finish a couple spots of stain and polythane
  • Trim around ceiling and skylights
  • Seal backsplash
  • Find some stools for the island (the ones pictured are on-loan from the garage workbench)
  • Install pot-filler faucet over cooktop
  • Misc decorative touches