Catching Up

Cruisinginthewild has been on vacation this past week on the Florida Panhandle enjoying the bright, white sand and emerald waters, hence the name "The Emerald Coast". Hurricane Dolly blocked us from the water beginning Wednesday, as rip currents were such that the double red flags went up to close the water to swimmers. As is human nature, apparently, rules just don't apply to some. One by one, they went out into the rough surf. Most worked their way back to shore, but some did not. Case in point: the two teenage boys who had to be rescued by rescue personnel on jet skis. One was responsive enough to give his rescuer a big hug at the shore. The other young man was nearly unconscious. We watched as they were taken away on stretchers. Another swimmer was not so lucky. The local newspaper reported that one man died from medical complications after being brought in from the water.

We must all accept that we have certain limitations. When dealing with nature's forces, never should we underestimate its power, whether it be a hurricane or rip current.

On a lighter note, today's beach ride was eventful. Two fishermen cleaned their catch at the Inner Harbor in Ocean Springs. They had quite an audience: numerous Laughing Gulls, 2 Green Herons, one Great Blue Heron and an alligator- a youngster about 3 to 4 feet long. All awaited any morsel that came their way.

On the road away from East Beach, a tortoise, head held high, was working his way across the road. We do not interfere with them unless the road is busy, as was the case today. He or she was obviously heading in a particular direction, so we chose to speed up his journey with an assist. As I approached him, he sped up. Surprised at how quickly he moved, I had to really work to catch up with him. Had cars not been approaching, I'd have let him continue on his own, but feared he could not move quickly enough. He was safely escorted to the road's edge, disappearing into the grass and shrubs.

Mid-day is a generally quiet time at Gulf Islands, particularly in late July. Most of the critters have sought shade. We decided to venture there anyway to see. A few birds and a grey squirrel were the only residents braving the heat, so we'll give it a shot later in the day as the temperature drops.

We were born in northeast Alabama in the shadows of Cheaha Mountain. It is a beautiful place, there in the foothills of the Appalachians. After 40+ years, it was time to make a change. After 4 years on the Mississippi Gulf Coast with its varied habitats of seashore, bayous, and swamps filled with so many sea and land creatures, we are certain that this was a most excellent choice. If you have never visited, do consider it. We think you will not be disappointed.