Third barby trying some sirloin kebabs yummie. Saw a raccoon claiming up the tree next to us last night and this morning a large dolphin swam past us terrorising the local fish, blurred photos to follow. Off to look at Myakka state park this afternoon.

Another lovely day,( 90 on the door thermometer), just as we were having breakfast (it was still officially morning) about 16 canoeists paddled in (see photo) I don 't know why. As they were milling about Barb spotted a snake down by the pool, grabbed the camera but it had gone by the time I got there, a petrified skink was quivering by the pool, normally it would dash off if it saw me but it was too scared of the snake which must eat skinks I guess. Went to the ...

Weather is perfect at the moment, mid eighties and sunny. Strolled down to Crab and Fin last night, barb had a lobster tail, very nice ( did not take any food photos) Hol' has not been v relaxing so far, all the fuss with the picture and boat has taken much time. The boat arrives on Tuesday so maybe we can chill out then.

The painting from the UK arrived yesterday, had a bit of a scare as there was a big hole in the front but it was well packed and not damaged. It was too heavy to get up the stairs from the basement, may try the lift or just get Pat to move and hang it.

First barby last night lamb chops yumie. Just starting to relax a bit . Been organising the painting being shipped , all sorts of documents to print out fill in and fax. The boat, need to alter the lift and drive 60 miles to sign forms. Washing machine broke down, Barb suffering withdrawal symptoms. Teleconference with Bill etc. it is too much like hard work.