First Days at Rainbow Springs

Rainbow Springs State Park is located west of Ocala, near Dunnell on, FL. We arrived here Tuesday afternoon for a week stay. After settling in, we walked down to the river's edge to enjoy the views and watch Gus test out the steps going into the water. The last step down is under water and beyond that is about a 2-3 foot drop. The water is very clear and there are lots of small fish swimming near and on the lowest step. Gus proceeded to fall into the water from the bottom step chasing a fish and getting fully doused in the process. It was a big surprise to him; he immediately climbed back up the steps and shook all over us and anyone else nearby.  We had a good laugh at his expense. Alligators have been seen in this area, so there is a posted sign saying "no dogs allowed to swim", but thankfully we saw none that day, or since in that area.

Wednesday Gus and I took a long walk following the Tram Road. We walked as far as the schools, about a mile down the road, and back. The Tram is for tubers but it is not running this time of year, so it makes a great place to walk.  Later that afternoon Maryann and Phil came for cocktails before going to dinner at Swampy's in Dunnellon.  We have known Maryann since we lived in West Virginia, since 1973.  When we first met she was married to Jay Mullen and they had one son, Michael.  A lot changed after that, with both of us having children, and both families moving to Ohio, although not the same area of Ohio. We still managed to get together when we could until Jim and I moved to Virginia.  We have managed to stay in touch over the years, through her divorce from Jay, and her marriage to Phil , and I treasure the times we can get together. She and Phil live in the Ocala area, just south of the city. We love visiting with them each year if we can.