FL 2-19-15

Our March to Corpus Christi continued today. We both slept in and we're ready to leave Beaumont by 10 AM.

I punched in the address of Galveston State park and at the second turn I knew we were not heading towards I-10. However, I felt adventurous so I let George (the GPS) have his way. Well, in no time we were cruising down a state road at 60 MPH with very little traffic. About 50 miles into our 125 mile trip we spotted a digital sign stating "Ferry traffic on schedule". With no water in site we just looked at each other and shrugged.

Soon we were following the Gulf coast and getting marvelous views. George said 20 miles before our next turn so we continued to drive along enjoying the scenery. When I next glanced at George's screen, while traveling through Crystal Beach, water was on three sides of us. We had ventured onto Bolivar peninsula. That now sounded like Ferry ahead. Sure enough, 10 miles later, get in line for the ferry. The attendant at the entrance informed me I needed to shut off the propane tank before proceeding. No problem, I jumped out and took care of it and then was directed to lane 2.

As I sat in line having cold sweats as I recalled our ferry ride in New Brunswick, the ferry arrived at the landing and began to discharge its load. When I realized over 30 cars had disembarked I regained control of my sphincter. The parade continued and then 2 trailer trucks left the landing. Now the shakes and cold sweats subsided. Ruth was still speechless but I was now ready to board. I was signaled to move forward I could finally see the boat. Very big! Six lanes wide and quite stable looking. I did notice the steep ramp on the approach just in time to hit my custom installed driveway switch that lifts the entire motorhome 6 inches. No dragging the hitch like we did in Canada. Into the middle of three lanes again, but nothing was on my left side this time.

As we waited to depart I spotted oil tankers and cargo ships lined up waiting their turn to enter the harbor. Wow, those tankers are big.

Once we were underway, I got out of Gracie and walked the deck so I could snap a few pictures. The ferry moved along pretty fast. I'd guess 15 knots in very calm waters. Just as I left the bow, a rouge wave hit and drenched anybody within 10 feet of the rail. Hee Ha.

Unloading was a piece of cake. Once again I hit the driveway switch and off we went onto Galveston island. Imagine, I just got to the island without even seeing the freeways with all their traffic around Houston. Bonus!

After another 17 miles driving along with the beach on our left and all the shops, restaurants, and other beach related vendors, we arrived at Galveston state park. Ruth checked us in and gathered info for our stay on the island. For a mere $25 per night we are parked facing the Gulf about 500 feet from the water. Gracie is parked on a slab and green grass surrounds us. The picnic table is shaded by a two sided structure complete with roof. Just beside it is a fire pit complete with cooking grate.

As I write this from my recliner the sun is beginning to set right in front of me. Oh yea it is also 65 degrees. This is going to be a great weekend!