Florida 2013 Day 1

Well it was 14º when I got up this morning - perfect day to head to Florida for a week of fun with my camera! Jon was kind enough to get up early to get me to the airport. Check in & security were quick and easy despite longs lines. Saw Stephanie Cohen (K teacher) in line - she was headed to Colorado with her family. Smooth flight and we arrived early. Baggage claim was a long way from the gate so by the time I got there the suitcases were starting to arrive and I didn't have a wait. I have rapid check in for rental car so that was easy too. Love it when traveling goes smoothly - hope this continues!

First photo stop was Lukas Nursery and Butterfly Encounter in Oviedo just outside Orlando. There weren't too many butterflies because it's February, plenty of flowers - a relaxing time - it was warm, there were water features so there was the sound of running water, and they had tranquil music playing. They had a special space called the rejuvenation station that had painted lady butterflies that you are allowed to hold. You dip a finger in a cup of nectar then pick up a butterfly the same way you would get a parakeet to get on your finger. It was great for photography. Click here for all the photos.

Stopped at Target to get some provisions - cheaper to buy Coke there than from the hotel vending machine! Saw 2 ladies wearing winter boots because it's 'cold' down here - made me giggle because it was in the upper 60's!

After checking in to hotel and resting for a bit I headed to Downtown Disney. Just wandered up and down the walkway, did some people watching, and took some pix. There were herons and egrets flying in to roost for the night. Again people were wearing all sorts of clothing because of the weather, some people looked like they wished they had brought a few more layers! Click here for Downtown Disney pix.
Had to skip my tradition of going to see Cirque Du Soleil's La Nouba because they don't have shows on Mondays. I did treat myself to a new bag in their store ~ and it was on sale. Kept the tradition of chocolate covered strawberries - and got 2 for the price of one because they were stuck together.

Fun day planned for tomorrow ~ camera will be busy. I have to be up and out bright and early!