$20 view??

All the Passport America & Good Sams RV parks where full so the search was stretched to facilities further along the route to central FL yet still on the water. Theresa called the Old Pavilion RV park in Keaton Beach, FL that was right on the Gulf coast to check for openings. Indeed they had 2 sites available & all the lady needed was name, phone number and approximate arrival to reserve the site. The facilities included full hookup with 50amp service, on the waterfront all at the Passport price of $20 for the night. In addition, the park's website also boasted 'Unbeatable sunsets (no charge)'. The park was 40 miles south of Tallahassee and was a bit removed from the interstate route to grandmas house but was in the general direction. This new destination meant a long 260 mile day of driving, however the capital city was the only significant milestone on the route. With a threat of fog, the departure was delayed and Kevin donned his Captain's hat to steer the vessel back to the I-10 channel towards Tallahassee.
It was clear sailing for the captain and soon he bid farewell to the trusted I-10 and veered starboard towards the southern port of Perry, Fl (home of Keaton Beach).

The captain questioned his navigator and her charts as the passage narrowed and the speed slowed. After all day at the ships wheel, the doldrums of the back surface roads left Kevin feeling like little progress was being made. Alas a marina was spied, but where was the RV park? Theresa peaked out from the crows nest to discover the park was abeam across the road from the marina with a sign that had been obstructed by a roadside tree. The captain tacked into the drive and inquired from a the harbor master(camp host) which slip would be home for the night. The Smitanic was secured in it's dockage with it's dingy removed.

The air became thick with fog as the afternoon progressed and the water was at high tide allowing the Pelicans, White Ibis, Cormorant and Sand Plovers to adorn every post, pillar and rock exposed above the waterline. There was also a large deck connected to a floating dock that had chairs and tables for the parks residents to undoubtedly enjoy the promised 'Unbeatable sunsets'.

Theresa reported in to the dock master to pay the slip fee and inquire about any local dining establishments for tonight's grub. Only cash or check were accepted, as credit cards were just too much trouble and the closest restaurant had sadly closed and the next option was not open on Mondays. The mate would need to scrounge up some delectable delights in the galley for the crew.

Towards late afternoon the fog lifted leaving behind a pink hew to the sky. Soon after that the sun beamed thru to satisfy the promise of the unbeatable sunset that was enjoyed with a beverage on the deck!

The park was very rustic, far off the beaten path and had minimal amenities but the crews from the other vessels were quite friendly, the price was right and the sunset made this a planned port of call on a return voyage.

Tomorrow the destination of The Villages, FL will end the eastern journey where a few weeks will be consumed with visiting Kevin's Mom and sister as well as getting more repairs performed by the capable staff at Alliance Coach in Wildwood, FL. Theresa called several parks near The Villages and was able to secure at least 1 week at Blue Parrot RV resort. After the stay in FL, the route will turn north up I-95 for the return to home port of Cary, NC.