We’re two months into an 800 mile, three state separation. The “Great Recession” strikes again. Layoffs and RIF’s have touched most everyone we know – then it was personal. Twelve weeks without a job. Only viable option was the offer in NC. Too bad we live in Florida. I stick with my FL job and my husband charts a new course in NC. Not ideal, but the bills are paid.
G-man was home this past weekend so we planned some serious snuggle time 
and with a favorable weather forecast on the horizon, logging some miles on the bikes – finally. Spent Friday on stuff that needed to get done and some relaxing beach time. The weekend is starting out just right…
Checked over the bikes Saturday morning – tire pressure, fluids, you know the drill – pack the rain gear just in case. Water, first aid kit, snacks. A quick stop at the corner gas station, out on the road – the first adrenaline rush after a (too long) dry spell exhilarates. East for about 5 miles, south on Route 27 to 997 – lusty siren song of Key West beckons. This day was more about the ride; longed for and requisite asphalt therapy. Destination: joy. Down Krome Avenue into Homestead. Cross over to Card Sound Road – over the bridge and into the upper keys. Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, 7 Mile Bridge, past No Name Key and the Key Deer Habitat. Baby’s Coffee – almost there – the miles click off as stress and fears evaporate. Azure sky, puffy white clouds, water all around – shades of turquoise, green, blue, teal – sparkling and dancing in the bright sunlight. Sea spray tickling the nose, clearing the sinuses – pungent salt on wind parched lips – skin tightening under abundant sunshine. Calling out to play – to live – to feel. How to capture this sensual experience in a digital file? For now words fill the void. Stay in the now – because now is perfect. Future – not so much…