Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Forgotten...Brooksville, FL

I came across a couple of homes when driving around snapping pics of local Southern Belles that, unfortunately, seem to have been forgotten.  In stark contrast to their beautifully maintained & restored sisters, they are being abused by both time and the elements.  Their graceful elegance is still apparent, and I can't help to think...

What if...









Can you see them, too?
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Thursday, January 22, 2009

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Homosassa, Florida

"Discover the Real Florida"
How could I say no?
As much as I enjoy the long, gleaming strips of sugar sand beaches lined with restaurants - oh, yes, I truly do enjoy them :) - discovering the "real" Florida with the kids makes for a wonderful day.  The fact that the kids learn about our new home state's native species, along with how the staff at the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park take injured animals, heal them, and then care for them, is a nice bonus.  

The manatees are the stars of the show.  Watching them gently eat carrots, lettuce and other veggies directly from the staff's hands is a great demonstration of just how gentle these giants are.  Unfortunately, their terrible scars show how our species is hurting theres on a daily basis.  




Two of my favorite Manatees:







Now for what are probably our most famous natives, the alligators.  Um...I'm just going to...move along.  I'm sure the park's website will share lots of info about them.  Let's just say I'm still adjusting to the fact that these guys live around here...






Hungry Hungry Hippo




We get these in our yards, too...



Can you even tell he's missing a wing?  Believe me when I tell you it doesn't take away from his glorious presence.  He's a reminder of the good that can be found in the people of this nation.


We're blessed that this park is just a hop, skip, and a jump (over a gator?) away from Spring Hill.


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Saturday, January 17, 2009

Baby Belles - Brooksville, FL

They may not be as grand,
but I think they're every bit as special...














Which home tugs at your heart strings?


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Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Southern Belles - Brooksville, FL

A few of the older,
 and stunningly beautiful,
homes found in Brooksville, FL:














I can almost see shadows of a different era when I look at these.
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Monday, January 12, 2009

Brooksville, FL, Live Oak Canopy

Live Oaks leaning over roadway in Brooksville, FL
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