Greetings from my home in Cincinnati. We recently returned from a 6-week stay as snowbirds on the Alabama coast, the place where I kept my little corner of the world in full swing. Travel time returning home (Friday and Saturday) is the reason for not having a weekend concert and for my absence – but Aretha is still schedule for this coming weekend … and the opening song is set!
The weather during our stay wasn’t the best – but as I always say, no matter how cold it is in Alabama during our stay, it’s warmer than home! January had cold, but that was when Cincinnati (and many of you) were gripped by bitter cold. Plus, the only snow we saw was on news reports. Of the three years in Alabama, this year was probably the worst – and the first year without a good streak of sunshine – but hey – the overall weather was better than home.
I always say these 6-weeks are for my alter ego – a time with minimal obligations – a time away from normal routines – a time when I can focus on walking the beach as much as possible. How much did I walk during the 43 full days? Here’s the tale of the tape:
- 911,867 steps covering an estimated 405.3 miles (652.3 km)
- 21,206 steps averaged per day
- 17 of 43 days over 10,000 (but less than 20K); 24 of 43 days over 20,000 steps (but less than 30K), and 2 days of 43 over 30,000 steps
I was hoping to lose some weight during the 6-weeks south. Then again, I know we will go out 2-3 times per week. Good news is that we were able to limit the snacks that my wife’s father enjoys. Bottom line is 8 pounds lost and my waist feels smaller.
Walking also means composing more beach walks. I don’t have a final count on the number of drafts, but it may be the most ever. I think over 40.
I love sunrises, but given the weather, I didn’t see many achieving the wow factor.
On the worst weather days, we like to go to a theater. This year we saw Vice, The Upside, and The Wife.
TIP: When at the beach, if you see something interesting, take a picture and then send it to a marine biology department at a local university.
My wife is a prolific reader – but I read two books this time: both by diplomat Madeleine Albright – The Mighty and the Almighty and Fascism: A Warning. Reviews in the future. I’ll post reviews in the future.
On one of the questionable weather days, we visited the Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola. It’s very well done – and free. Compared to the US Air Force Museum in Ohio, it’s much smaller.
For the record, we only dance a few dances one evening – so it will take some time to regain ballroom form.
We were pleased with the gas mileage of our Subaru Outback. Over the 2800+ miles (4510+ km) covering 6 weeks, the Outback’s gas mileage was 31.4 miles per gallon.
As after arriving at home Saturday afternoon, Sunday provided a small dose of snow, Monday deliver the first of a two-day punch of frigid, plus I ordered my first hearing aids, AND began prep for Tuesday’s colonoscopy. Such a great way to return home! Hooray – no polyps! Next colonoscopy in seven years!!! – but a busy return has slowed my blogging presence.
We enjoy the Flora-Bama – truly a regional institution with national acclaim. (past post) The bios of some of the musicians are impressive. For instance, the only way we know Neil Dover is that he proceeded our favorite duo – so we typically only heard 15-30 minutes each time. Interestingly, his degree is in opera! He’s written a great song about this quirky musical palace. The lyrics and the video are perfect. Enjoy Neil Dover with FloraBama Time.
Glad you had a great time there, Frank. Looking forward to your beach walks.
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John,
Thank you. As you know, the writing process is a time consumer.
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I do know that, Frank.
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More than an understatement. 😉
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How beautiful and I have never been anywhere near there.
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Cindy,
Alabama’s short coast (I think about 100 miles) and Florida’s panhandle region serve as home to wonderful regions. Summer is their prime time, so winter visits is a time for lower rates, small crowds, and varying weather. This is where I saw the osprey perched on the bridge. The timing of your post was perfect!
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That is some mileage, Frank! Kudos to you. Vacation, no snow, lots of walking and 8 pounds lighter. Not a bad time at all 😉
Glad the colon is clear 😉 and now you can really hear the music for your concerts.
Welcome back.
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Dale,
Many thanks. I was on a walking mission – and this time I took along a small digital recorder to collect some thoughts!
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Neil Dover in the song reminded me of Jimmy Buffet. And i bet his opera voice is different but also good .
Congrats on the miles walked and clean bill of health (no polyps)
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Yvette,
I can hear the Buffett resemblance with a bit more southern twang. I too think that he uses his opera training in ways we may not know. Meanwhile, the Flora Bama is a special place, so thanks for watching the video – and the congrats!
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😉
😊💦
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I think you must be the first person I have ever come across who goes on vacation and loses weight. Well done for that! I’m listening to the Neil Dover song as I write this, his voice reminds me of someone – as does the melody but I can’t think who just now. You sure did a lot of walking so I’m thinking we are going to get some interesting beach walk posts. The beach you walk looks a little like the one I walk, it’s lovely when you have a good white sand beach to walk on isn’t it. While parts of the Northern Hemisphere have been having the coldest of winters ever, parts of the southern have been having the hottest of summers – including us. So I’m guessing you were lucky to have the good weather you had? Oh, I just saw Prior mentioned Jimmy Buffett – that’s who your man reminded me of.
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Pauline,
Would you believe that I also have a tendency to lose weight on cruises? Yep – and it’s mainly due to the amount of walking we do on the ships and in the ports – while still eating my fair share of cruise ship cuisine.
The beach there is wonderful. Is your sand very fine? This one is – small grains can feel like a fine powder. Ahhhh … all a memory. You mentioned listening to the song while commenting, I suggest you play it again – but watch it so you can get a visual of this classic slice of Americana.
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Yes, the sand is fine. There are grey sand beaches and also shingle beaches, more especially on the west coast, but my beaches are fine, white sand affairs. Very nice to walk on in bare feet as you have so often noted 🙂
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Ahhhhhh …..
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Welcome home dear Frank, I am glad too to hear you had a great time. Photographs are so beautiful, especially the storm and sun sky, fascinated me. Beach walk is amazing experience, I love too. Thank you, Love, nia
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Nia,
I love that storm cloud picture too, so thanks for mentioning it! Meanwhile, it was a great time, and especially given the cold temperatures & snow at home, we definitely miss it!
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Sounds fab! Thanks for sharing! Xx
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Fiery,
It was wonderful! … and a great place to have an alter ego away from the normal routine – well, establishing a new normal!
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Everyone needs a change of pace once in a while
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Oh yes – that’s why I say this is my alter ego time.
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Cincy,
I was thinking about the tornado that hit the state, inland. That isn’t a normal thing for that area, is it?
That storm cloud capture is ominous.
Weigh to go (see what I did there?) with the waistline. It’s amazing what stepping up your game can do for you.
Welcome back!
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Marc,
Alabama can get their share of storms, including hurricanes. I imagine the violence of the recent storm may be unusual for the time of year. (FYI: We were already home.)
Walking was my prime activity there as I took a lot of steps! Whew … and the majority of them on the beach. That tall spike near the end was like 17.6 miles!
Hope you watched the video because the Flora Bama is it’s own place!
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Yeah that storm was horrendous.
Look at you! That’s the way to do it. I always feel better when I get my steps in. And it’s nice to have my Fit Bit again.
I think I remember this video? But Imma check . . .
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This is a different video – first time I’ve used it here. The other one was Kenny Chesney. Meanwhile, hitting 40K on the pedometer was a landmark day. I may turn the walk into a post.
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I like it!
Wow! That IS a landmark day! It’s like the 60 HR plateau in baseball. And you did it clean. 😉
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Glad you enjoyed the video. I’m going out on a limb saying I think you would like the Flora Bama. Thanks for the encouragement regarding the 40K walk post!
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I’ve reached the 50 K mark once, after which I think I didn’t wear my Fitbit the next day, lol.
The break from it was a great idea, because I have a greater appreciation for it now. Without the obsession.
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50K? … wow … now that’s a lot of steps – definitely over 20 miles.
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If I’m not mistaken it was twenty one miles. And yes, it’s kinda cool to have those days when you challenge yourself.
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Well done! I’ll save the reason for my challenge (and how it ended) for the post.
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Good deal!
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BTW – I can’t recall who, but they picked the Reds for last in the division. 😦
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It must’ve been a Cubs writer.
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LOL … I think it was USA Today, but not sure. On the other hand, a very competitive division.
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Yeah it will be a very competitive division. And not for nothing, but the team with the most negative vibe right now is Pittsburgh. The fan base isn’t happy and the team is middling at best.
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Agree about the Pirates. If the Reds can compete for third, that would be a good thing.
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It would be a good season.
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Especially after a string as cellar dwellers.
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My only pause would be the chemistry. You never know how it’s going to work, or if it’s going to work when you have a mass changeover.
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And chemistry is something that we fans don’t know if they have or say they have it but don’t.
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So many variables. But if it works? They will be fun to watch.
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Hi Frank! It sounds like you had a wonderful vacation, even if the weather wasn’t as good as in previous years. Those tube worm casings are–I’m not sure what. Fascinating? Hahaha. Did you have any idea what they were? I like the storm cloud photo.
It’s good you were not traveling through Alabama during the tornados!
Congrats on the good news on the colonoscopy–and not having to go through the prep again for seven years! And I hope the hearing aids work well for you.
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Merril,
My biology background made me wondered if they were tube worms – but I wasn’t sure. Then the idea of sending a pic to a marine biology department. Search Tube Worms on Google Images to see them alive. They are round (but not segmented like an earthworm).
The latest storm in Alabama was devastating and sad … and oh do I hate the colonoscopy prep. The toilet part doesn’t bother me, but the stuff plays hell on my stomach.
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I agree with you about the prep. UGH.
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No question both you and your Subaru Outback put on some major milage the last six weeks. Can’t wait to hear what caught your fancy during this year’s beach walks.
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Tim,
Definitely major mileage on my feet. Maybe I’ll provide a list of future walks in an OITS.
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Welcome home Frank. I’m sorry the w eather was not that accommodating but it sounds like you had a great getaway . I haven’t been to AL since living in Huntsville a decade ago. Thanks for sharing the awesome photos. Congratulations on all the good news!
Hopefully Spring will soon find us all ! Stay warm.
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Holly,
Although weather is miserable here, still good to be home. Northern Alabama is so far from the water! But hey – I know you like where you are now. 🙂
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We have a six month hurricane season in Florida but it’s a paradise if we are lucky enough to avoid the bad weather. 😊
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🙂
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Sounds great and every time you mention Flora Bama I want to go there!
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Phillip,
Flora Bama is legendary – and we love it. This video (lyrics and scenes) are perfect – as is the one on my dedicated post to the Flora Bama. Hope you get there some day. Have you visited the US? If so, where?
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Perhaps one day I shall make it to Flora Bama…….. I have visited the US many times and I lived in Berkeley, California for two years in the 1970s.
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I figured you had, but didn’t know about living in the Bay Area. Meanwhile, the Flora Bama calls. FYI: Summer is prime time in that area. I’ve talked to people who rave about the fall.
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Despite the weather dear Frank, sounds like you enjoyed and lost a few pounds too.. Wow to that storm cloud…
Last week we had Sunny temps up to 21C… Now back to normal 9C.. and wind and rain.. Sending well wishes for the upcoming weekend Frank
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Sue,
Yes – the weather wasn’t the best – but still able to enjoy it – and much better than home!
Glad you enjoyed the storm cloud. I think we only got some sprinkles from it – but it is still a good pic. Meanwhile, cold here and snow on the docket tomorrow afternoon.
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We may have some next week according to forecasters.. Mother Nature is speaking to us, yet we are still not heeding her..
Take care Frank.. 😀
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That’s a very impressive step count, Frank. Well done on the weight loss and the colonoscopy result. You must be thrilled with both results. Thanks for sharing your photos. The sunrise shot is gorgeous. It’s always nice to get away for the usual routine for a few weeks if possible. We are hoping to do that in May/June. I look forward to the Aretha concert. I’m now wondering what song you’ve chosen as the opening act. 🙂
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Sylvia,
I was on a walking mission … and enjoyed it! Plus, I’m sure that helped with the weight loss. I love sunrise. Maybe because so many people miss them. Hope you getaway plans come to be! As for Aretha’s opening song, my lips are sealed.
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😐
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Welcome home. Looks like it wasn’t a half bad get-away. Looking forward to the Queen of Soul concert. LOVE the storm clouds image. Truly lovely.
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Monika,
Thank you … and the storm cloud image is the winner! Cheers to the Queen of Soul appearing!
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Beautiful pictures of a beautiful location. Longer getaways make it easier to really relax and enjoy it. Cool tubes! Always something to discover at the beach – congrats on the weight loss. It takes more energy to walk in sand – and is better on feet and bones, too. (Not sure if that’s enough trade off for hurricane risk.)
Sorry about the weather. This year we’ve got a weak El Nino weather pattern which means a much wetter winter/spring – and fierce spring storms. (Maybe fewer Gulf hurricanes- if the pattern holds…we sure are tired of the rain and sea fog) – had to grin that you managed to appreciate the milder weather even if stormy/rainy/overcast
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Mouse,
Glad you enjoyed the pics and the tube worms. We didn’t get much rain during our stay, but wow – clouds and fog. Probably a continuous fogbank that included you and me.
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Sounds like a great getaway, even if a bit chiilier than hoped. A cloudy day on the beach is still a day on the beach! Neil Dover’s video is really fun. Thanks. Hurrah for your test results. Stay healthy, happy and warm given this winter.
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Patti,
Even with the so-so weather, we still embraced our stay. Thanks for watching the Neil Dover video about the Flora Bama – truly a fun place with a lot of character … and with plenty of characters.
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I’m so pleased for you to have had your trip to the Alabama coast, Frank. Six weeks is really a wonderful span of time for truly feeling the effect of a vacation. I’ve never done that, but can imagine! I love the beach in any kind of weather, so no worries there. 🙂
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Debra,
It was wonderful – but coming home to lousy weather makes it seem so distant. For you, I recommend finding a long-term getaway like this!
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I would just love it. My biggest drawback is I can’t really be away from my mother that long at this stage in her life. Trade offs, you know. I have the blessing of a mother still with me, and I’m very grateful. I don’t think I could coax her to come with us for a lengthy time either. Life is always interesting. I’m going to bookmark that suggestion, however, and one day, I’m going to do it! 🙂
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Some day!
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I resemble this post – haha. I didn’t get away for six weeks, but 4, mostly in sunny Kauai (though it did rain as well as a terrific windstorm) and rainy CA. Flew home an hour before a snow storm, and five days later, we received a foot of snow. I’m in a March downer, which I always receive after returning from our February upper. I smiled at your walking statistics. I watched my walking steps every day (from my watch) and walked 6 -9 miles daily. Just. Lovely. Now, off to dance class to try and keep sanity. Sorry about the hearing aides – but good for you! I have a close certain someone who needs them badly but is fighting off reality as much as he can.
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Pamela,
Cheers to your time on Kauai. North or south shore? …. Extra cheers to a fellow walker!!!! I know what you mean about the March downer. Definitely a struggle here since our return. Plus, snow is one the way in a matter of hours! Hope you had a good class.
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South shore – Poipu. Princeville is beautiful but too cloudy/rainy for this girl who needs the SUN! 🙂 5 degrees here in NE this morning. Sigh.
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Brrrrr …. Definitely not the temp in Kauai. Only been there once – for a week – but we were on the north shore. Ahhhhhhh ….
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It seems your break was successful even without sun. Sometimes winter is the best time to walk on the beach as it is not crowded usually.
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Jo,
Definitely successful … and one of the reason we like the Alabama coast in the winter is the fact that crowds are small (primetime is summer). And hey – the weather is better than home.
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Great photos. I’d be a snow-bird too if I didn’t live in southern California
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Hansi!
Glad to have your presence again. Live in SoCal is only for the tough minded like yourself.
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Sounds like a wonderful time! I envy you your walks. However, mine are returning, as the weather will be above freezing starting Sunday. Walking is a very underrated exercise. Neat song, Frank!
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Resa,
It was a wonderful time. At least the weather was tolerable – and better than home! March is a crazy month here. It has started like a lion, so I hope it goes out as a lamb. Cheers to walking!
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Hi, I loved the picture of the sunrise!
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Moushmi,
Welcome first-time commenter. Thanks for letting me know. I like sunrises – especially the pre-dawn light. I know I did several posts about sunrises somewhere in my archives. 🙂
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That’s some serious walking, Frank. I usually get over 20K when we go somewhere and we’re out all day but to do it for as many days as you did is serious business.
I love the Outback for many reasons but that gas mileage we get on trips is a major bonus.
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George,
Cheers to a fellow Outback owner! That was serious walking – averaging 21K+ over 43 days. A good way to pass the time when on the beach. Many steps were with shoes off! 🙂
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Such pretty pictures. The storm cloud one is so cool. The tube worm casings, however…. Shudder!
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Lovely vacations photographs and memoires for you.
It seems like a nice place to get away. Glad you were able to enjoy some nice walks.
Soaking up the good vibes and breathing the salty air is a gift.
Isadora 😎
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Isadora,
You know better than I about the good vibes the beach provides … and oh my – did I ever walk a lot! 🙂 …. PS: You need to see this post. https://afrankangle.wordpress.com/2019/03/12/on-a-dimension-of-time/
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