After a great Christmas, we had a pretty full agenda. We needed to visit the Red Barn Flea Market, a place we made two trips to during our stay in Ellenton earlier in the year. Also, Sun-N-Fun is 15-25 minutes from a few beaches, so we needed to make a few stops. And the recent Florida vote to outlaw greyhound racing meant we needed to take in a farewell trip.
The Red Barn Flea Market is only open on certain days, and it so happened that it was the first item we’d cross off. It’s a large place with an eclectic mix of vendors. Everything from rusty tools to Chinese knock-offs to cheap shirts to direct-to-consumer products. It’s a fun place to wander around for a few hours. There’s an indoor section and various outdoor sections. We find it maze-like, which only adds to the adventure and fun of a visit – you never know what you’ll stumble upon!
The next day, we visited Lido Key Beach. The reviews online said it was just as good as Siesta Key Beach but less crowded. It was only 15 minutes from Sun-N-Fun and the warmest day on the forecast, so we loaded up for a beach day. Emerson was deathly afraid of the water. He hated the sand. Meanwhile, Adelaide loved it. She played in the shallow waves and helped me dig a hole and subsequently bury her. It was really fun. Karissa discovered a sand bar that we walked around on for a while too. It was a great beach day.
After a long afternoon the at the beach, we needed more water fun, so we had a quick coffee before enjoying the pool and playing a round of mini-golf at Sun-N-Fun.
Florida, after years of rumors, voted to end greyhound racing. We’re not sure of the exact details, but know that this might be our last opportunity to take in a race. We’re not sure why there’s such a hub-bub over the issue. Supposedly the dogs have a great life. Sure, they have to run more than “normal”, but at least they’re not overfed and underexercised like most household dogs. We met a couple that adopted a former greyhound racing dog and were looking for another.
Anyhow, Emerson loved the dogs. He made sure to point them out to us and got excited with every sighting. Adelaide has loved the races since her first visit and this time was no exception. We had perfect weather, if not a bit hot, to watch the races.
To wrap up the year, Karissa’s parents are coming up from Naples and we’re taking them to the Sunday drum circle at Siesta Beach.