Category Archives: Florida

When Florida Gets Cold, the Manatees Remember Where to Go

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A Sudden Cold Snap in Crystal River

February 1, 2026: Photos coming out of Crystal River show manatees packing into Three Sisters Springs, clustering together like oversized gray dumplings as the cold weather hangs on. Whenever Florida gets a rare chill, the manatees make a beeline for the warmest water they can find — and this week, they’ve been pouring into the springs by the hundreds.

A Memory From 2017 That Still Sticks With Me

Hearing about the cold weather down there instantly pulled me back to my own visit in 2017, right in the wake of Hurricane Irma. The world above water was a mess of downed branches and storm debris, but beneath the surface, the springs were calm, almost sacred. And in that quiet blue world, I met a mama manatee and her “tiny” baby.

Chopping on Rope

The “Tiny” Baby Who Wasn’t Tiny at All

I use tiny loosely.
The calf was estimated at around 50 pounds — basically the size and shape of a fire plug with flippers. He was doing his best to look innocent while nibbling on the ropes dangling from the dock, like a toddler caught chewing on the furniture. His mother floated nearby with the patience of someone who had already accepted that her child was going to be “that kid.”

Manatee

That moment stayed with me. Maybe it was the contrast — the chaos of the hurricane versus the gentleness of these animals. Maybe it was the way the baby kept sneaking back to those ropes like they were the best snack in Florida. Whatever it was, I’ve had a soft spot for manatees ever since.

Baby Manatee

Why Cold Weather Hits Manatees So Hard

When water temperatures drop below 68 degrees, manatees are at risk of cold‑stress syndrome — a dangerous condition that can cause fatigue, skin lesions, and even death. The springs around Crystal River stay a steady 72 degrees year‑round, making them one of the most important winter refuges for these gentle giants.

Manatee in the Wild

So when the temperatures fall, they crowd into the springs not because it’s comfortable, but because it’s necessary.

How We Can Help

Cold snaps remind us that manatees aren’t just adorable “sea potatoes.” They’re survivors — but they’re survivors who need a little help.
A few simple things make a real difference:

  • Giving them space in the springs
  • Supporting seagrass restoration
  • Keeping waterways clean
  • Slowing down boats
  • Backing rescue and rehabilitation organizations

A Place They Can Always Count On

Every winter, the manatees return to the springs because they know it’s the one place that won’t let them down. The least we can do is make sure that stays true.

 

🌍 Hidden Gems & Internet Shenanigans: My Accidental Travel Checklist

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Surfing the Web, Stumbling into Wanderlust

One of my guilty pleasures since being forcefully retired (yes, I’m still salty) is cruising around the internet. It’s a rabbit hole of weird and wonderful discoveries—and we all know if it’s on the internet, it must be true, right?

I especially love lists. Bucket lists, travel lists, “best of” lists—I devour them like popcorn. I scroll through to see what I’ve done, what I’ve missed, and whether I agree with the writer’s take. Recently, I stumbled across a list of “Hidden Gems.” I expected obscure spots I’d never heard of, but surprise surprise—I’ve actually been to a few!

❄️ Leavenworth, Washington: Alpine Charm Without the Prison

The list kicks off with Leavenworth, Washington—a mountain village with alpine architecture, festive vibes, and wintery fun like sleigh rides and snowshoeing. Sounds magical… if you like snow. I, however, am a blanket-loving, cold-avoiding creature. Sleigh rides? Maybe. Snow? Hard pass.

Oh, and just to clear up a common misconception: the infamous Leavenworth prison is in Kansas, not Washington. So no need to worry about bunking with inmates on your holiday getaway.

🏖️ St. Augustine, Florida: History with a Sea Breeze

Now this one I have visited. St. Augustine is described as “old world elegance meets coastal calm,” and I couldn’t agree more. It’s a dream for history buffs and beachcombers alike.

I wandered through the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park (Ponce de León sightings: frequent), and explored Castillo de San Marcos—the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. It looked nothing like the northern forts I grew up with, and that made it all the more fascinating.

Castillo de San Marcos – Photo Credit Deb Neumann

🏜️ Village of Oak Creek, Arizona: Sedona’s Serene Sister

Been there, done that—and I’d do it again. Oak Creek is often overshadowed by Sedona, but it’s a gem in its own right. Rich red rocks, peaceful vibes, and spa-worthy stays make it a haven for nature lovers and photographers. I’ve visited more than once, and each time feels like a fresh discovery.

Red Rocks –photo credit Deb Neumann

🏞️ Eureka Springs, Arkansas: Victorian Whimsy in the Ozarks

I haven’t made it to Eureka Springs yet, but it’s on the “maybe” list. It’s described as a quirky small town with Victorian charm, winding hills, and upscale cabins tucked into the Ozarks. Kayaking and underground tours sound fun… though my joints might disagree. Still, never say never.

🌊 Mendocino, California: Cliffside Calm and Coastal Cuisine

Now this one has my attention. Mendocino promises cliffside inns, local vineyards, and oceanfront escapes. Food, wine, and waves? Yes, please. I could definitely get into that kind of coastal calm.

✨ What’s Next?

There’s still so much to explore—new places to discover and old favorites to revisit. Maybe I missed something the first time around. Maybe I’ll find a new favorite. Either way, the journey continues… one internet list at a time.

 

Decadent Treat from the Sea

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Maine Lobster- photo credit Deb Neumann

Broiled Decadence

I was born in the wrong time in history. My absolute favorite treat is broiled lobster tails. Any lobster is good—but I’m addicted to the tails.

Lobster wasn’t always the elite culinary gem it is today. At one time, it was so plentiful it was considered poor man’s food—fed to prisoners and even pigs. Can you imagine tossing a $50 lobster into a pigpen? And yes, I found a website selling Maine lobster tails for $58.99, so I’m not exaggerating when I say a “trash meal” turned treasure.

Maine Lobster vs. Rock Lobster

Every trip to Florida—especially the Florida Keys—includes at least one (usually more) stop for lobster tails. Why Florida? Because they use spiny lobsters, also called Rock Lobsters. These clawless crustaceans pack all their meat in the tail. The tails are larger, firmer, and have a brinier taste than Maine lobster.

Maine lobsters are great, but just using the tail feels like a waste. Let’s boil that beauty and enjoy the delicate claw meat too. Best to use a real Lobster Pot, not just any pan.

Fun fact: When I was younger, I had a lobster license and used to scuba dive for Maine lobsters. I could enjoy a lobster meal anytime I was willing to dive—which was often!

snuba at Turtletown 2020

National Lobster Day

Today is National Lobster Day, so head to your nearest seafood restaurant or fish market for an annual treat of broiled lobster. Restaurants might make it sound like preparing tails is a mystical art, but it’s really quite simple. Just don’t overcook them—nothing worse than a dry lobster tail.

Around here, it’s easy to find Maine lobster tails. Occasionally (though rarely), you’ll spot Langostinos—small crustaceans often substituted for real lobster. They’re tasty, but more closely related to crabs than lobsters. So for today, let’s go with the real thing.

Broiled Rock Lobster tails- Key Largo 2019 photo Deb Neumann

Let’s Cook

Ingredients

  • 4 lobster tails (10 oz each, or adjust cooking time for other sizes)
  • ¼ cup salted butter, melted (½ stick)
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Thaw the tails
    If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat the oven
    Set to Broil (500°F / 260°C). Position the oven rack so the lobster tails on a baking sheet are 4–5 inches from the broiler.
  3. Butterfly the lobster tails
    Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the shell lengthwise (top side only), stopping at the tail fin. Gently pull the meat upward, leaving the end attached. Rest the meat on top of the shell.
  4. Make the butter mixture
    In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Brush generously over the lobster meat.
  5. Broil the tails
    Cook until the meat is opaque and lightly browned—about 1 minute per ounce. (10 oz tails = 10 minutes; 5 oz tails = 5 minutes.)
  6. Serve with melted butter
    For extra indulgence, try drawn butter—it takes a little more effort but yields a clear, golden dip with rich flavor.

How to Butterfly a Lobster Tail

Affiliate Disclosure

Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. This means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly love—especially when they involve lobster tails!

 

A Traveler’s Guide to Roadside Attractions

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Just a heads-up: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only share products, places, and experiences I truly love and think you will too. Thanks for supporting Around Dusty Roads and helping me keep the adventure going!

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📝 Lists: These Are a Few of My Favorite Things

I love lists. I like to check off the things I’ve done and review the things to come. One of my favorites? A well-worn copy of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. It’s part bucket list, part daydream fuel.

Every now and then, I stumble across a list of Roadside Attractions—those quirky, unforgettable stops that dot the highways like exclamation points. Starting in the 1920s and ’30s, the rise of the automobile road trip sparked a craze among entrepreneurs to build eye-catching structures and clever advertisements to lure passing motorists. The trend flourished through the 1950s and ’60s, often considered the “Golden Age” of roadside Americana. Route 66 was famous for it. And yes, I’ve driven parts of Route 66 myself.

Rt 66 2011 – Photo Credit Deb Neumann

⏳ Time Is Passing

Sadly, as time marches on, many of these roadside oddities are falling into ruin—or worse, being sold to developers and replaced with modern billboards and generic signage. The charm fades, but a few gems still linger.

📍 Three Attractions That Linger

Here are three roadside wonders I’ve personally visited—and they’ve left a lasting impression.

🦖 1. Wall Drug Store — South Dakota

Located near Badlands National Park, Wall Drug is more than a pharmacy—it’s a full-blown destination. Think kitschy souvenirs, an 80-foot animatronic T-Rex, and a dining room that serves up hearty fare. When people say “You can’t miss it,” they mean it. Just follow the signs off Route 16.

Wall Drug Store 2011- Photo Credit Deb Neumann

Thanks to a catchy jingle—
“Get a soda / get a beer / turn next corner / just as near / to Highway 16 and 14 / free ice water / Wall Drug”—
the cars started rolling in and haven’t stopped since.

🦕 2. Dinosaur Park — Rapid City, South Dakota

After a snack at Wall Drug, why not swing by Dinosaur Park? Built in 1936 during the Great Depression, this hilltop attraction features a towering 80-foot brontosaurus and six of its prehistoric pals.

Dinosaur Park Rapid City SD 2011- photo credit Deb Neumann

The idea was sparked by local discoveries of dinosaur bones and footprints—and it worked. The park captured traffic headed toward Mount Rushmore and became a beloved symbol of Rapid City. Today, the brontosaurus still stands tall, watching over the town like a gentle giant.

Big Brontosaurus- Rapid City photo credit Deb Neumann

 

🧜‍♀️ 3. Weeki Wachee Springs — Florida

Heading south to the Sunshine State, I was on the hunt for manatees—and found mermaids instead. Weeki Wachee Springs is famous for its live mermaid shows, a nostalgic nod to old Florida charm. But like the vintage ads say, “Wait—there’s more!”

Mermaid Show Weeki Wachee Springs 2012 – photo credit Deb Neumann

Visitors can take a nature boat ride, go kayaking, or splash around in the water park. It’s a fun day for all ages. And yes, if you’re lucky, you might just spot a manatee gliding through the springs. ( Yes, that’s me swimming with the baby manatee)

Baby Manatee

Manatee Whisperer 2017

 

National Waffle Day

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National Waffle Day: Let’s Talk Syrup, Grids, and Golden Crispy Joy

I kid you not—this is the very first item on today’s list of National Days and Observances. Numero uno. Right there, top of the stack: National Waffle Day.

Why? Because on this day, the first U.S. patent for a waffle iron was issued. And honestly, that’s reason enough to celebrate. Waffles are more than breakfast—they’re edible architecture. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfectly designed to cradle syrup, berries, whipped cream, or whatever your heart desires.

Now, let’s take a quick peek at the other contenders:

  • National Peach Pie Day: Tempting, but we already gave peaches their moment this week.
  • National Maryland Day: A nod to the 7th state to join the Union. Respect, but not breakfast.
  • Pluto Demoted Day: Poor Pluto. Still spinning out there, doing its thing, even if it’s no longer a planet. I doubt it cares.
  • Feast of Saint Bartholomew: A solemn observance, not quite waffle-adjacent.
  • International Strange Music Day: Intriguing, but I’m not sure what qualifies as “strange.” Kazoo symphonies?
  • National Knife Day: Sounds like the setup for a murder mystery. Hard pass.
  • Kobe Bryant Day: A heartfelt tribute to a legend. Beautiful, but heavy.

So, back to waffles. One of my favorite breakfast foods—hands down. Whether you like them Belgian-style, buttermilk, or sweet potato-infused, today’s the day to fire up the iron and celebrate those golden grids. Bonus points if you drizzle maple syrup in slow motion like it’s a food commercial.

Waffles deserve their spotlight. And today, they’ve got it.

looking at two buttermilk waffles, topped with butter and syrup

Stock Photo

 

 

🏪 Waffle House: Southern Comfort on a Plate

Comedians love to poke fun at Waffle House, but Southerners? They swear by it. Why? Because it’s dependable.

“People may disappoint us in life, but Waffle House is literally there for us—open 24/7 and on virtually every interstate stop in the South.”

Whether you need a sunrise pick-me-up or a 2 a.m. soul-soothing meal, Waffle House is always open. It’s a South and Midwest chain that serves classic Southern breakfast fare. I’ve had the pleasure of dining in them in both Florida and Georgia. I’ll skip the grits, but the waffles? Absolutely worth the name.

20+ Waffle House Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free ...

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🏨 Hampton by Hilton: Waffles in the Spotlight

Even hotel chains know the power of a good waffle. Hampton by Hilton features waffles prominently in its advertising, and their breakfast buffet includes “baked-by-guests” Belgian-style waffles.
Those ads always make me hungry. But they also raise a question: what exactly is a Belgian waffle?

Hampton by Hilton Ad

🧇 Belgian Waffles vs. Regular Waffles: A Tale of Two Textures

Not all waffles are created equal—and no, Eggo waffles don’t count (sorry, freezer fans).

Let’s break it down:

🇧🇪 Belgian Waffles

  • Batter: Made with yeast-leavened dough or whipped egg whites folded in for that signature fluff.
  • Texture: Crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside—like biting into a cloud with crunch.
  • Appearance: Big, bold, and beautiful. Deep pockets thanks to a specialized waffle iron.
  • Leavening: Yeast or whipped egg whites give it lift, not baking powder.
Belgian Waffle Images – Browse 113,433 Stock Photos, Vectors ...

Adobe Stock Photo

🇺🇸 Regular (American) Waffles

  • Batter: Denser, pancake-like, often enriched with buttermilk for a richer flavor.
  • Texture: More cake-like and compact.
  • Appearance: Thinner with shallower pockets—still tasty, just less dramatic.
  • Leavening: Baking powder does the heavy lifting here.

Belgian waffles are the red carpet version of breakfast—ready to be dressed up with berries, whipped cream, or syrup waterfalls. American waffles? More like your cozy flannel pajamas: familiar, comforting, and always welcome.

185,800+ Waffles Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free ...

American Waffles Stock Photo

 

Waffle Recipes

Homemade Belgian Waffle Recipe

This Homemade Belgian Waffle Recipe is easy and makes delicious, authentic, Belgian waffles!  These waffles are perfectly crisp and golden on the outside while being light and fluffy on the inside!
CourseBreakfast
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time15 minutes 
Cook Time 20minutes 
Total Time35 minutes 
Servings 8
Author Nichole

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your waffle iron, spray with non stick cooking spray and set aside.
  • In a large bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
  • In a medium bowl beat the egg whites with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
  • In a separate medium bowl mix together the egg yolks, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract.
  • Add the egg yolk mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well.
  • Fold in the egg whites.
  • Pour the batter onto your hot waffle iron and cook according to manufacturer’s directions**
  • Serve immediately with butter, syrup, powdered sugar or any other favorite toppings.

American Waffles

Tender and Easy Buttermilk Waffles

These buttermilk waffles are crisp on the outside and tender in the middle. I love the results this gives while not having to separate the eggs and take time to whip egg whites! These will also reheat in the toaster for a quick workday breakfast.

Submitted by Diana Perry
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
25 mins
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups low-fat buttermilk
  • ⅓ cup melted butter
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Gather all ingredients.

  2. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a bowl until evenly combined.

  3. Whisk buttermilk and melted butter together in a separate bowl; whisk in eggs.

  4. Stir buttermilk mixture into flour mixture until just combined and batter is slightly lumpy; stir in vanilla extract.

  5. Preheat a waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.

  6. To cook each waffle, pour enough batter into the preheated waffle iron to reach 1/2 inch from the edge. Cook according to manufacturer’s instructions.

185,800+ Waffles Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free ...

Stock photo

Whether stacked high with berries or simply kissed with syrup, waffles remind us that joy can be golden, crispy, and served with a side of comfort. Waffles may not solve life’s big problems, but they sure make breakfast feel like a hug from the inside.”