Happy New Year! – Arrived at Winter Home

We are now at our RV park for the winter (since 12/7) in the city of New Port Richey, Florida. It is located a few miles north of Tampa along the gulf coast. Our plans are to stay here for about four months before returning back to Virginia. The time will go by quickly so Pat and I sat down and came up with a decent list of 22 quick road trips/excursions to keep us busy. Happy New Year!

The Trip South

It was an easy drive this year with three interim stops. And one long stop in Savannah for four days. From Savannah we took I-95 south to just north of Jax at the junction with FL-200 west to US-301. Then 301 southwest down to almost Ocala, then west to I-75. I really enjoy driving the non-interstate roads across Florida. They are not very busy and are all in great shape.

Then we take I-75 south down to FL-52 (that is always under construction) and that routes us directly into New Port Richey (NPR).

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Orchid Lake RV Resort

Our RV park is a 55 and over park with a good helping of amenities and activities. It also has an excellent location to explore the gulf coast of Florida. The only downside of the park is it is an older and some street and RV lot maintenance has been lacking for years. The owners do not want to invest much in infrastructure. The RV lots were also developed back in the 70’s and 80’s when RVs were much smaller. Our 41-foot 5th wheel trailer is the largest in the place and is a little tricky to back in.

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But mission accomplished. All set up with the water softener, satellite dish, patio furniture, and ham radio antenna!

The best part of the park is the friendly people and a great group of guys to hang out with! I enjoy drinking a cup of coffee most mornings with the gang.

Winter Plans

Trish and I always develop a large action plan list upon arrival. Last year, we only accomplished about 50% of the list. This year we have those remaining plus a new set. Many days’ worth of exploring.

Just a few items on the list are to visit with family and friends in the general area. The day trips to Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, Crystal River, Palm Harbor, Clearwater Beach, and many Tampa attractions.

Then there are many state and local parks for hiking and exploring. Plus a museum or two in every town. We will stay busy.

50th Anniversary

We celebrated Christmas here with a pitch in dinner at the rec hall and then a couple of days earlier Pat and I went to a nice steakhouse for our actual 50th wedding anniversary. To be honest, we have been celebrating all this year with a cruise and some other small trips. And we also gave each over new wedding anniversary bands! We have been blessed to have had these years together and hopefully many more.

Wrap Up

I hope that all that read this have a great 2023 and that all your resolutions are realized. Whatever they may be. Next up will be a day trip to Dunedin for lunch. Thanks for following along and God Bless.

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