South Padre Island SPI
As John mentioned before we wanted to return to SPI for another winter thinking it might be a place we could settle. I have always loved beach life and figured this was an affordable place to land. What I surprisingly discovered was that beaching is just not enough.
Our lives have been so enriched by hiking, disc golf, craft beer, birdwatching and diverse scenery. Sadly this place does not check off enough boxes. That being said it is indeed a wonderful place to visit. The expansive beach, the birdwatching and the spacious RV site we secured both years we visited have indeed been worthwhile. It is very picturesque and will be a wonderful memory once we leave.
While in South Texas I have very much enjoyed the birdwatching with John. It is wonderful that he can identify what we see in our binoculars and though I have no desire to memorize the different species to become an expert birdwatcher I never cease being amazed by the excitement of seeing these marvelous creatures up close.
Imagine my joy when John gifted me his old camera as I could save the images I once only could see fleetingly into a savable image to enjoy again and again. It has taken quite a lot of practice but the reward has been priceless.
My eyesight is not very good so even with the binoculars and I do not see what I sometimes capture in a photograph. I can see the same bird again and again because in different lighting or poses I can discover new things about the bird I have never noticed before. The images in this blog are some of my favorites from this newfound hobby. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!
Wish us luck in our search of a place to land. We are both researching in our own ways hoping that when we come together with our results we will be able to dedicate future travel toward exploring the places we might call home....
NOTE: We are currently in South Padre Island TX until March 1st…
These are great pictures Sharon. You did a wonderful job. So sharp and clear. I have some questions. What camera did you use and what in the world could John have bought that is better than it? I'd love to know the park you are staying in near enough to capture these great shots. Wish I were where you are.
ReplyDeleteMy camera is a Nikkon Coolpix and John's is a Cannon SX740. His has better zoom and better lighting options. We are staying at Isla Blanca Park on South Padre Island and there is a nice birding boardwalk trail a few miles away!
DeleteWow Sharon, such a nice intro to your bird watching. A 'green jay' I've never seen/heard of it. A beautiful photo. And again thanks for labeling the potos!
ReplyDeleteGreen Jays are indeed amazing! So colorful! Glad you liked the pics!!!
DeleteYour photos are amazing, Sharon, and it sounds like you're off to an excellent start with your new hobby! If you and John ever run low on beer money, the two of you could sell some of your images. I have a feeling you'd be quite successful. Wishing you both the best of luck with your search. Your hearts will let you know when you've found the right place.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your kind words and encouragement!
DeleteNice photos Sharon. Good to have another hobby to enjoy. Karen has started to learn to weave baskets from pine needles she collects at campsites. I know you guys like South Padre and I'm sure you will find your forever home eventually that meets all the check boxes.
ReplyDeleteWow! I love baskets...what a fun new hobby for Karen! Life is short so why not make it fun right?
DeleteGreat pics. We have several of those things on your list nearby. Come on down.
ReplyDeleteThanks! Florida is still high on my list!
ReplyDeleteWe loved our one visit to SPI and always wanted to go back but unfortunately never did. Yes, great bird watching!
ReplyDeleteIt has been a good stay for sure!
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