May 29th - the Alligator Farm

Another day in Florida with the sun hiding behind the clouds.

So my son Marcus and I decided to head up to the Alligator Farm in St.
Augustine. It was very interesting.

In addition to the alligators I got to see for the first time a Komodo
Dragon an albino alligator and an ugly bird that was described as the
world's most dangerous bird.

We were present for the alligator feeding - which was something to see, and
very gross. The handler was throwing dead rats out to the gators. Every time
she picked up a rat I cringed.

We also got to witness some drama before leaving the park. Somehow a turtle
had made its way into a crocodile pond. One of the crocs had managed to get
a hold of one of its legs and was either trying to kill it or playing a very
sadistic game torturing the poor thing. The other two crocs also took an
interest in what was going on and wanted to get in on the action. However,
the turtle would snap or bite at them whenever they got too close. Three
brave zoo keepers saved the day and after many tries got the croc to let the
turtle go so they could remove him and put him back where he belonged.

An exciting day spent with many creepy creatures - gators, crocs and snakes
- none very cuddly.

Finished off the day with some great sushi.

Next up, a Disney World.

May 18th - Rocky Mountain National Park

Headed up to the park in the morning. Trail Ridge Road opened on May 14th -
the third earliest opening of this road through the park (some seasons it
has not opened until mid to late June).

I was here last year, but entered the park from the West side. I am not
sure if it seemed different because I was entering from the East, or if it
was simply because it was earlier in the year. I suspect that like so many
places, it is different and new with each visit.

One major difference was that the elk were still in the low meadows (last
year in July the elk were up near the summit). The only wildlife encountered
as one climbed higher and higher was a sole marmot along the side of the
road.

Since we entered the park from the East side, we headed back to Denver via
Granby. On the way I spotted some Antelope trotting merrily along the
highway and railroad tracks.

May 17th - Estes Park

Took a lovely drive heading up to Estes Park via Lyons, the weather was
perfect.

Checked into the Stanley Hotel. For all of my visits to Estes Park and Rocky
Mountain National Park, this was my first stay here. It is really a
beautiful old hotel.

The resident psychic was there and in session. She must have some terrific
powers - no ghosts or men with hatchets (ala The Shining).

Spent the afternoon walking around Estes Park visiting the shops and
enjoying the sights.