nature

Delta Dawn Tug-of-War

Warm ocean waters dance with a cool mountain stream at the tidal mouth of the bay. Unusual, yet captivating. This tug-of-war between salt water and fresh water changes the landscape of the beach every single day leaving one to wonder if the results were sculpted by a gigantic sandman while you were sleeping. Be aware. The waves from the sea in this spot are driven by the surf and the rainwater from the wettest mountain range on the island is powered by gravity. Oftentimes, the point where the two collide creates a momentary whirlpool. Entertaining to watch before the freshwater current rides the waves back out to sea. The bank is no different than a sand castle. It may leave you with a false sense of security believing the beach is more solid than it appears. One step can crumble the wall like squeezing the water out of a sponge. Another may leave you off balance sinking up to your knees in a quicksand-like soft bottom. Either way, it’s an enigma worth beholding. 

Palm Island Boardwalk Lives Up to its Name

A leisurely stroll on a winding boardwalk is perfect for daily exercise. One forgets about the 8-acre distance covered along the shoreline and through dense areas of native plants and trees simply because there is so much that catches the eye. Shaded pavilions offer the perfect stopping point to relax for a moment, soak up the view, or share a picnic. The solitude is therapeutic as well as the company of egrets, ducks, bullfrogs, and dragonflies. Well done, Mt. Dora!

Listen to the Waterfall

“As long as I live, 

I’ll hear waterfalls and birds 

and winds sing.  

I’ll interpret the rocks, 

learn the language of flood, 

storm, and the avalanche.  

I’ll acquaint myself with the glaciers 

and wild gardens, 

and get as near the heart 

of the world as I can.”  

~ John Muir

The Delicate Daisy

“I think scent is sensual. I guess evoking a mood or a spirit is key, and I think with the women’s fragrances we have evoked different types, moods, or sensibilities of a woman – whether it’s Daisy with the sweetness and the innocence or Lola which is more provocative, sexy, and sultry.”

~ Marc Jacobs