Lake Okeechobee; Orlando

We left the yachts and marinas of Key Largo, and spent several days at Lake Okeechobee. It is in the middle of Florida, and in a very poor, rural area. The damage from the hurricanes is still very evident. Funny how we hear about rebuilding needs in the south, but don't hear much about the Florida needs.

Lake Okeechobee is the 2nd largest fresh water lake in the continental US. But it's not a swimming lake. We saw 8 huge alligators casually floating along the placid lake not too far from us after a rain. We loved where our trailer was parked -- right by the lake -- where we could hear the water lapping at the edges. Beautiful sunsets. The gnats and no-see-ums bothered us so we didn't sit outside as much as we would have liked.

Now we're back in Orlando -- where we were 3 months ago! We had planned to see John's grandson again, but he had left the area before we got there. We celebrated John's birthday at a Japanese steak house, where they cook the meal on a big grill in front of us. Great dinner!

We enjoyed our day yesterday at Epcot Disney World, although we left before the fireworks at the end of the day because it started raining. Very informative, and something for all ages. Lots of interactive future-oriented things, and a nice area of international sections. We particularly enjoyed some of the photography that were part of the attractions -- one of them simulating a hang glider over California. Almost made us homesick.

We're actually starting our westward-ho trek tomorrow, but it will take another 4+ months to get back home. Still too much to do and see! And we're still having way too much fun!