Today marked the last day of my vacation. Tomorrow morning, I fly back to Cali.
I miss my doodles, kitty, and step grandson – I miss sleeping in my bed – but this break provided much-needed time with my family and a healthy dose of sunshine and relaxation.
Part of me hates to leave the sun and the sand behind, but it is time to go home.
I spent my last day on the gulf enjoying as much sunshine as possible. Dad dropped Mom and I off at the shops down near the pier so that I could find a t-shirt for my grandson and we could enjoy a little Greek food at The Plaka. We enjoyed spicy Bloody Mary‘s while waiting for Dad to meet us for a light lunch of marinated octopus, skordalia, and saganaki.
Mom Enjoying a Bloody Mary on the Beach
Before Dad arrived, we walked down the public pier to visit with some local wildlife.
Pretty Pelican
Hanging at the Pier
Back at the condo, Mom and I walked off our lunch walking toward the bridge to Bonita and back. We saw this handsome Egret and this beautiful Heron on the way.
Snowy Egret
Handsome Blue Heron
We saw these keys decorating one of the driftwood branches – hopefully someone will discover what they’ve lost in the sand on Estero Island.
Lost Keys
We also met this little Boston Terrier enjoying a game of frisbee on the beach.
Click to view slideshow.
After playing with the pooch, we walked back to the condo and spent the remainder of the afternoon reading poolside and soaking up some rays.
My aunt and uncle invited us for dinner on my last night and picked us up for a night of dining excellence. They took us to Roy’s in Bonita Springs, a five-star Hawaiian fusion culinary wonder. It appears there’s a location in San Francisco, so I’ll have to check out the action a little closer to home someday!
Yum!
When we opened our menus, this note appeared on top of our cocktail and wine menu.
Special Message
When my aunt called to make our dinner reservations, she had mentioned that it was my last night visiting. The restaurant made our dinner special and I admit feeling very loved. My uncle snapped this photo of me preparing to enjoy my meal!
Spicy Tuna Roll
Our waiter was kind enough to take a photo of our group and frame it for me to take home. I asked that he take one with my camera, too. Here we are after our amazing meal.
Well-fed Family
My parents and aunt and uncle will enjoy another meal at Roy’s before my folks head back to Michigan, but I am thrilled my aunt and uncle asked that we join them for a special dinner on my last night in town. This was a lovely end to a fantastic surprise for my dad.
Florida Finery