Ft. Clinch SP (Feb 1-14)

Monday, Feb 1 - We left at 9:07 and 55 deg and arrived here at 2:11 and 59 deg after driving 220,2 miles. We stopped at the Mason Jar rest. in Dona Vista north of Eustis for a nice brunch. We got set up and discovered that the shower was leaking. It apparently froze and cracked during our recent cold snap. John removed the faucet and we will try to get a new one tomorrow. Meanwhile we will have to use outside water and heat it for dishes in a pan. This is minor inconvenience. We commented how much easier this all will be in our new rig. We have a nice site (48) and feel settled in. Even with the abundance of trees, John was able to get a satellite signal.

Tuesday, Feb 2 - Today's main goals were to get gas, food, and a new shower faucet. All three were accomplished and we now have water and meals for the week. We walked down to the beach and fought the wind to fish for awhile, but came back without a hit. It rained most of the night, but was just cloudy all day and still on the cool side.

Wednesday, Feb 3 - We took our usual coffee walk and went down to the river to see if the fishing might be possible, but it was way too cold and windy. We decided to take a hike after pancake breakfast to stay out of the wind. We hiked around Willow Pond, then over to the beach on the Atlantic side where the other campground loop is. We are glad we chose the Amelia River Loop instead, because it would be way too windy on this side. We drove to a couple of places where we were told we could launch the yaks, but were not impressed.

Thursday, Feb 4 - A little warmer today and the sun shined awhile. We checked out Little Talbot SP and stopped for great pizza at Raffone's Brick Oven. It rained this evening.

Friday, Feb 5 - A cold front that brought heavy rain kept us close to the camper today. Thankfully there was no violent weather. At least we had several fishing shows recorded. We also got some odd jobs completed.

Saturday, Feb 6 - The campground nearly filled up today despite the weather. It was very windy today, but as long as we stayed around the campground and in the woods, it was quite pleasant. The sun was out most of the day which made us feel good. We went on a guided hike with a group of campers with a volunteer with the park. He was very knowledgeable and interesting. We both learned a lot about the local flaura and fauna. We went down to the beach and while bracing ourselves against the wind, watch a large ship come down the Mary's River and head out to the Atlantic.

Sunday, Feb 7 - We attended a wonderful contemporary service at a very warm and friendly United Methodist church nearby.

Monday, Feb 8 - We drove down to Jacksonville Beach to meet friends, Laurel and Judy, at Joe's Crab Shack. We had a great lunch and time with them there, followed by a refreshing walk on the beach.

Thursday, Feb 11 - It continues to be quite cold, but not as windy as yesterday. We take a couple of walks during the day, but have been unable to get out and fish. We have stayed very comfortable in the camper with our little space heater. At least it hasn't snowed here.

Friday, Feb 12 - It rained all day, except for a couple of hours in the late afternoon. We stayed inside, except for taking a trip out to have dinner at Barbara Jean's Restaurant near the main bridge over the Amelia River. It was wonderful. Joan had turkey with dressing and John had grilled catfish. We were stuffed when we finished. Many of the sites here have built in swimming pools. Ours is soggy, but no major pool. There is still a chance of snow tonight. Wonderful!

Saturday, Feb 13 - The sun came out about 11AM and things got dried out. We got some things cleaned up and put away and enjoyed a hike along the beach and back thru the woods. A couple we met here (Lee and Mary Jo) came over in the afternoon for snacks and we really enjoyed their company. They are from the Adarondaks.

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