Around Peace River

Yesterday was spent running errands and getting things set for Christmas. I must admit that it is very strange to see Christmas decorations, hear carols, etc. with no snow on the ground anywhere. Finding it a bit difficult getting into the Christmas spirit too. We blitzed into the Super Walmart up the road from us and bought enough groceries to get us past the big day. Once back at the campground we also paid a visit to the vegetable man who visits twice a week. His produce is great and so are his prices.

Yesterday afternoon, we tried pickleball for the first time. It is played on a court much like a tennis court with a net across the middle. Paddles are made of wood or some kind of acrylic polymer and about the size of a racket ball or squash racket. The wiffle ball is the size of a tennis ball but made of hard plastic with holes and a hollow core. We batted the ball around for a bit by ourselves as we were the only ones there. Then another couple showed up to give us a few pointers as far as rules, strategy and technique are concerned. We had a lot of fun and got a very good workout at the same time. I don't think it will take too long to get the hang of it.

We noticed the campground is getting busier too. More people coming in throughout the day yesterday, but also some leaving this morning already. Still plenty of room though. We are trying to extend our stay here until January 10th if we can. We upgraded our Thousand Trails membership while in Orlando last week to the VIP level. That allows us 21days in all parks. Previously we were allowed 14 days in and then we had to stay out for 7 days before coming back into the system. Now, we can go 21 days at one park and then immediately into another park. Orlando and Peace River parks are classified as high use in the winter months though and all members are restricted to 14 days maximum. This is fair and enables more people to have a chance for a time slot as well.

The preserve is raising money to build a mini golf on the property and held a hotdog supper last night around the fire pit. We decided to support this effort and each got 2 hotdogs with chips and a soft drink for a grand total of $5.00. Can't beat that.

Buddy is settling in nicely at this park and has made many new friends, including another Bichon who is just a little younger than he is. He loves his walks and I am certain the warm weather is better on his old bones than the current and recent weather in Ottawa would have been had we wintered up there. While taking him for his walk this morning, I spotted these turkey vultures sitting in an dead tree covered in Spanish moss. There wasn't as many in the tree as we have seen. Hundreds of vultures flying around here in the afternoons most days too. Wonder if Buddy feels like a potential vulture snack?