Florida Wild

Photos from last week's trip to Florida

A Blue Land Crab defends his territory (Stuart)

A Blue Heron takes flight over the Intracoastal Waterway (Pompano Beach)

Storm clouds forming in the afternoon (Central Florida)

A mango ripens in the Florida sun (Stuart)

Juvenile Sandhill Cranes (Hobe Sound)

A Green Iguana clings to the sea wall (Pompano Beach).

Fields of cattle line the highways throughout much of the state (Central Florida)

Coconut palms at Mom's house (Stuart)

A pair of White Ibises (Hobe Sound)

The ubiquitous Brown Anole (Stuart)

Common Brown Garden Snail on the move (Ft. Lauderdale)

Cross Him Off the List

I had the privelage last week of serving as a groomsman in my good friend Neal's wedding in Orlando. It's times like these that make me reflect on the relationships in my life that I hold dear. I've been blessed with some truly special friends, and I am happy to call Neal one of them. Although distance keeps us from seeing each other often, we maintain a deep and intimate (mind out of the gutter, people) friendship. Of course, he was a g-man in my wedding, so maybe he's just returning the favor... At any rate, I have to say congratulations to Neal and Jessie and many blessings on your new life together!

As a gift to the g-men, Neal gave us each a ring with Song of Solomon 6:3 (I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine) written in Hebrew. These rings were similar to Neal and Jessie's wedding bands. It was a tremendously thoughtful gift, and I proudly wear it. It was also great to meet the other g-men who are close friends with Neal. In a brief time, I can say that I developed a huge appreciation for who these guys are and would be happy to meet them again sometime.

While we were down in FL, we took the opportunity to visit with family and friends who are scattered throughout the state. The trek took us from Jacksonville, to Orlando, Melbourne, Stuart, and finally Ft. Lauderdale before heading home. I'll fill in some details in the next few days.

The happy couple makes their grand exit.

Thanks for the ring... but, no, I won't marry you Neal.