March Fourth

Remember that old joke that used to tickle you as a kid? "What date is a command?" Well, I probably have a strange sense of humor, but forth we go into March. It's still raining in some parts, but that's a good thing as long as it doesn't get out of hand.

Yesterday I started my Emerald Coast explorations. I explored the inside of Gary Smith Honda dealership's waiting room. "Esmeralda, The Jewel of the Road, " my rally-red Honda Civic coupe was in for her 60,000 mile check up. Can't go exploring the countryside unless your coach is pulling on all four horses.

As I drove the 25 miles to Fort Walton Beach along US Highway 98, I saw some of the old standbys from years past are still going strong, particularly Big Kahuna's Adventure and Waterpark, the Indian Temple Mound and the Gulfarium. They've been joined by new attractions such as The Track Family Recreation Center and the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island as well as some interesting looking shops. Destin Commons just blows my mind. In the 1980s, a big day of shopping in Destin included a generous amount of time perusing the aisles in Delchamps grocery store. It seems there is a lot out there I need to go and see.

So I'm making a list and checking it twice; no that's another holiday, but it is going to take a little planning and a logical approach to check out all the fun things to do along this coast. It will also take some time and probably a little wine. At least Esmeralda is lubricated, thanks to the service team at Gary Smith Honda.