Red-Shouldered Hawk

I saw this majestic red-shouldered hawk while I was wandering the hiking trails at Oakland Nature Preserve. The hawk was perched right above me, so I took some decent photos. However, several bikers on the West Orange Trail stopped to take a look and the hawk decided enough was enough and took off. According to the Audubon Field Guide, the red-shouldered hawk is “A hawk of the woodlands, often heard before it is seen. The clear whistled calls of this hawk are conspicuous, especially in spring; in the east, Blue Jays often give a near-perfect imitation of this call. Over much of eastern North America the Red-shoulder has become uncommon, sticking closely to the remaining forests. Populations in Florida and California are often more visible, perhaps adapting better to open habitats.”

The Whole Enchilada


One of the coolest places in downtown Winter Garden, The Whole Enchilada Fresh Mexican Grill has something for everyone! We like to retreat to the outdoor deck/bar on the roof and relax with some ice-cold draft beers. This time around I ordered the Tree Hugger (whole wheat tortilla filled with tofu, Mexican rice, black or pinto beans, jack & cheddar cheese, lettuce, avocado and pico de gallo). Absolutely delicious!

Erna Nixon Park

A hidden treasure nestled within a bustling area of Melbourne, 54-acre Erna Nixon Park features a very scenic stroll along a 3,000-foot elevated boardwalk through a Florida hammock and nature preserve. It is named for Erna Nixon, a local naturalist, who championed the preservation of the natural area, which in the early 1970s was zoned for warehouses. We enjoyed wandering through Erna Nixon Park and admiring some of the huge live oaks we came upon along the boardwalk. After the hike, we headed over to nearby Hemingway’s Tavern for a delicious lunch. A great day indeed!

Half Wall Beer House

We were wandering around downtown DeLand yesterday and we stumbled upon the Half Wall Beer House, where we sat outside and enjoyed a great lunch, along with several ice-cold beers (I recommend the Ahi Tuna Melt paired with the Feeding Frenzy ale). It’s billed as a Craft Beer House and Sports Bar & Grill. The beer list here is truly impressive (they claim to have the largest selection of beer in Volusia County)! They also have locations in Port Orange and New Smyrna Beach. Check it out!

Toll Road Brewing Company

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you’re seeking an ice-cold brew in western Orange County, I recommend that you head over to Toll Road Brewing Company, which is located in the heart of downtown Ocoee. We had the pleasure of hanging out there on Friday night and Saturday afternoon. Friday night featured live music and a food truck with some great Cuban cuisine. Saturday afternoon we stayed around for the delicious barbecue. As for the beer itself, I sampled the Irish Red Shamrocks and Shenanigans – totally amazing! Bottom line: This place totally rocks, check it out!

 

 

Lighthouse Point Park Revisited

   

After a great lunch at DJ’s Deck in Port Orange (I highly recommend the rare Tuna Sandwich basket with fries!), we headed to Ponce Inlet to wander around. We parked at the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and strolled to the jetty at Lighthouse Point Park. We got there just in time to catch the end of a surfing competition, so the place was bustling with activity! We headed back via the boardwalk in a quest to view some gopher tortoises, but no such luck this time. All in all, a nice way to spend a Saturday afternoon, wouldn’t you say?

What I’m Reading …

“From the deepest swamps to the most civilized sidewalks, [50 Great Walks in Florida] … features the best short outdoor jaunts in the Sunshine State. These manageable walks will appeal to tourists in search of the real Florida as well as to residents who want to become better acquainted with their state but still be done in time for lunch. Though shoes may be required, backpacks are not.”