Scouting Mt. Dora, Florida
Jul 20th, 2013, 05:41 AM
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Scouting Mt. Dora, Florida
After 3 years of staying with various friends and visiting towns recommended by others, I found a Florida town that met my criteria for possible relocation/retirement. Mt. Dora is about 1 hour west of Sanford. It faces a large lake aptly named Lake Dora. A 4 x 5-block downtown map published by the Chamber of Commerce is chockablock filled with cute shops and places to eat.
If you Google it, you will see that it's October Arts/Crafts show draws a pile of people. I first visited Mt. Dora in Feb. and have returned to see how I could maneuver in the hottest weather in Florida, I arranged to stay 10 days at Simpson’s B&B smack dab in the middle of town. I will pretend that I live here for the next days and also visit some retirement places and Winter Park (based upon another friend’s recco).
I’m a 67-yo widder (OK, 'widow') with breathing issues whose reason isn’t totally understood. In the terribly hot weather in the D.C. area, my breathing hasn’t been bad at all. How would it go in Florida?
Next: I pack my bags, preflight.
If you Google it, you will see that it's October Arts/Crafts show draws a pile of people. I first visited Mt. Dora in Feb. and have returned to see how I could maneuver in the hottest weather in Florida, I arranged to stay 10 days at Simpson’s B&B smack dab in the middle of town. I will pretend that I live here for the next days and also visit some retirement places and Winter Park (based upon another friend’s recco).
I’m a 67-yo widder (OK, 'widow') with breathing issues whose reason isn’t totally understood. In the terribly hot weather in the D.C. area, my breathing hasn’t been bad at all. How would it go in Florida?
Next: I pack my bags, preflight.
Jul 20th, 2013, 05:48 AM
#2
I moved from the great white north to South Florida 20 years ago.
You learn early on to deal with the heat. When outdoors you walk slowly. The rest of the time car, house, malls, etc all have A/C. Often too much in food stores, etc.
We bike most days and even in summer it's ok due to breeze caused by biking.
Just make sure you wear sunglasses and suntan lotion.
I've heard the name Mt Dora but know nothing about it. Sounds funny to have "Mt" in this part of the country.
You learn early on to deal with the heat. When outdoors you walk slowly. The rest of the time car, house, malls, etc all have A/C. Often too much in food stores, etc.
We bike most days and even in summer it's ok due to breeze caused by biking.
Just make sure you wear sunglasses and suntan lotion.
I've heard the name Mt Dora but know nothing about it. Sounds funny to have "Mt" in this part of the country.
Jul 20th, 2013, 07:31 AM
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Hope it goes well, TDudette. I live about 30 minutes away. DH and I were just mentioning how this summer hasn't been quite as unbearable as usual. A note of caution, though - DH has compromised breathing, and has a lot of trouble with the molds here as well as the abundance of oak pollen in the spring. (We call summertime here "Florida winter" because that when we stay inside, out of the weather. 
Jul 20th, 2013, 08:16 AM
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We've lived here in Sanford for 20 years and have been to Mt. Dora many, many times over the years. It's a quaint town but have you considered The Villages? (located in Lake County as well but about a 30 mile or 50 minute drive from Mt. Dora.) It is a retirement mecca and you could make many friends and have lots to do. We have a family member who moved down several years ago and retired there and he is beyond thrilled, plays lots of golf (although they have hundreds of activities) has dated some wonderful women and is having the time of his life. If you're in town now, they offer trolley tours of the place. Best of luck to you!
Jul 20th, 2013, 08:50 AM
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I'd guess if you can make it in DC heat and humidity, Florida wouldn't be bad!! Florida does have this "thing" about it I am reminded of whenever I go--there is a breeze, for some reason.
Inland Florida is so different from coastal, I think.
Inland Florida is so different from coastal, I think.
Jul 20th, 2013, 09:37 AM
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Yes, as others have said, I find Florida heat to be less oppressive than DC heat. Must be the breeze!
Nice reference, TDudette!
I hope you enjoy your stay in Mt. Dora. We have friends who spend a biking weekend there a couple of times a year, once coinciding with the art show. It's a big draw.
As for allergies and breathing issues, each person is different. I myself don't tolerate the oak pollen well at all, others suffer from the mold, and the list goes on. I wish you luck--may you be tolerant!
Nice reference, TDudette!
I hope you enjoy your stay in Mt. Dora. We have friends who spend a biking weekend there a couple of times a year, once coinciding with the art show. It's a big draw.
As for allergies and breathing issues, each person is different. I myself don't tolerate the oak pollen well at all, others suffer from the mold, and the list goes on. I wish you luck--may you be tolerant!
Last edited by moderator8; Jan 5th, 2020 at 04:34 PM.
Jul 21st, 2013, 06:31 AM
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Mvor; LOL about 'Mt' as well. Elevation not too high but it's there.
sludick; I had problems in Austin in November with, I think, cedar. Big oak in my neighbor's yard so I don't know.
Penny77; I actually looked at Sanford and The Villages on my last trip (when I first found Mt. D). I prefer to be alone so Villages didn't appeal.
Gretchen; Ironically it was 20 degrees cooler in Orlando when I landed.
NewbE; Mold may be the problem for me. The art show is huge--vendors/retailers make a chunk of their yearly income at them.
Thanks for all of your best wishes! Cody's has a trivia on Fridays at 6:45. I may try to attend this week.
Back to the TR: Pre-flight: All the years my husband and I traveled, we never took a computer. For one reason, there weren’t lap tops, iPads, etc. until our very last trips together. Every large town had several internet cafés so it wasn’t really necessary. After his demise, I used the hotel computer, and then took the auto train so could easily pack it. This is my first flight with the derned thing.
My cute green carryon accommodated it well, along with my clothes. And a big bag for purse and camera stuff completed what needed to be schlepped. A small purse was packed for evening. I packed 3 pairs of slacks, a skirt and several tops that “go” with more than one thing. One dressier top.
Two years on the train made me repress memories of air travel and its restrictions. I inadvertently packed some colored pencils and a too large bottle (it wasn’t very large!) of mouthwash. Other consumables like shampoo I would buy down here if hotel didn’t provide.
All arrangements were made online in June. Southwest/Airtran/Payless auto, Econoparkexpress parking at BWI (Baltimore), and Simpson’s B&B. All confirmed the day before, including printing my boarding pass. I really didn’t expect to have trouble finding vacancies and didn’t. But I wasn’t on my way to Disney World, eh?
Flight leaving at 7:50 a.m. so I got to parking place (econopark) at 6:15. I left home at 5:25. Gulp. Yawn. Pre-printing the board pass allowed me to bypass check-in and go straight to a very long windy security line. It went quickly though and we stood in a tube-like structure for x-ray. I had a mind picture of someone guffawing at the view.
My green suitcase got side-lined and the bottle of mouth wash confiscated. Pencils (much better weapons) left alone. When I unpacked, I found I’d packed my very sharpest scissors and didn’t realize it! Now they are weapons. Nice TSA guy said liquids are being monitored pretty closely.
Naturally, my plane was at the further-most gate but I managed to get there unwinded. One hour before takeoff, I was seated with a group on the way to Orlando. Airtran has assigned seats so there was not nervous jostling to be first in the “B” line. And, except for some of the more rambunctious children, the area was quiet. It took all of my self-control to not stand up and ask if there were any Fodorites.
Flight was smooth and blessedly quiet. Except for the times the plane was over the water, one could see the ground for most of the flight. Cinnamon cookies were the snacks. No preservatives! Called Biscoff.
We arrived 1 minute early only to find another plane “parked” in our spot so we were about 10 minutes late. It was disconcerting to realize that the plane was making a 180! A long trip via monorail to actual terminal, through lots of eating/shopping places down the escalator and a left to car rentals. Do you want to know what happens if you pack too much in a green wheeled carryon? The pull comes out and won't go back in. You can invert the pull and pull on the handle until the pull breaks in half. Still more fun than checking luggage.
Payless doesn’t have a desk so I lost some time searching. Finally found their courtesy phone and was sent to Slot 12 outside. Waited about 10 minutes and the Payless bus came along. My credit card company assured me that extra insurance was taken care of by them and to not buy from rental company. Raja, the car agent, tried really hard to get me to buy it and made me sign several places absolving them of responsibility.
The car is a Nissan Scion and very much like driving my own little box. I ignored Dundee’s (GPS) direction (it wasn’t my fault—signage was poor) to take the correct exit to route 4 so lost 10 minutes getting turned around. “He” took me to route 429 that really was shorter. Unfortunately, he also took me to an exit for which I didn’t have correct change or a pass (have to check with rental company. Do ask when you rent a car so broke the law but couldn’t get right back on 429! I called police to turn myself in for the 50-cent toll and the officer said, “Don’t worry about it, dear.”
Using the doubtful Dundee to get back, I see a McDonald’s so order a cheeseburger and get some change. OK, I got fries and a shake also. Hadn’t had a meal since dinner the night before. I called Jamie at Simpson's to let her know where I was. Back on 429 and I hit another toll for $1.50 but this one is manned. He wouldn’t take the extra 50 cents but did give me a receipt to send to Payless. ($3.00 in tolls at this point).
Dundee says stay left on 441 when he should have said TURN left so I made an illegal U-ie and low and behold I’m in Mt. Dora very soon! Found a loading spot at the corner of 5th and Donnelly and called Jamie. She had just gone for a jog so I had no worries about help with green bag up the full flight of stairs ('no elevator' alert!) to get to the B&B rooms. All of the nearest public lots were full so I found one 3 blocks away—not really very far if you have no health problems. So far, my breathing is OK.
Next: Simpson's B&B, KaDee Kay kitchen, Maggie's, Cecile's
sludick; I had problems in Austin in November with, I think, cedar. Big oak in my neighbor's yard so I don't know.
Penny77; I actually looked at Sanford and The Villages on my last trip (when I first found Mt. D). I prefer to be alone so Villages didn't appeal.
Gretchen; Ironically it was 20 degrees cooler in Orlando when I landed.
NewbE; Mold may be the problem for me. The art show is huge--vendors/retailers make a chunk of their yearly income at them.
Thanks for all of your best wishes! Cody's has a trivia on Fridays at 6:45. I may try to attend this week.
Back to the TR: Pre-flight: All the years my husband and I traveled, we never took a computer. For one reason, there weren’t lap tops, iPads, etc. until our very last trips together. Every large town had several internet cafés so it wasn’t really necessary. After his demise, I used the hotel computer, and then took the auto train so could easily pack it. This is my first flight with the derned thing.
My cute green carryon accommodated it well, along with my clothes. And a big bag for purse and camera stuff completed what needed to be schlepped. A small purse was packed for evening. I packed 3 pairs of slacks, a skirt and several tops that “go” with more than one thing. One dressier top.
Two years on the train made me repress memories of air travel and its restrictions. I inadvertently packed some colored pencils and a too large bottle (it wasn’t very large!) of mouthwash. Other consumables like shampoo I would buy down here if hotel didn’t provide.
All arrangements were made online in June. Southwest/Airtran/Payless auto, Econoparkexpress parking at BWI (Baltimore), and Simpson’s B&B. All confirmed the day before, including printing my boarding pass. I really didn’t expect to have trouble finding vacancies and didn’t. But I wasn’t on my way to Disney World, eh?
Flight leaving at 7:50 a.m. so I got to parking place (econopark) at 6:15. I left home at 5:25. Gulp. Yawn. Pre-printing the board pass allowed me to bypass check-in and go straight to a very long windy security line. It went quickly though and we stood in a tube-like structure for x-ray. I had a mind picture of someone guffawing at the view.
My green suitcase got side-lined and the bottle of mouth wash confiscated. Pencils (much better weapons) left alone. When I unpacked, I found I’d packed my very sharpest scissors and didn’t realize it! Now they are weapons. Nice TSA guy said liquids are being monitored pretty closely.
Naturally, my plane was at the further-most gate but I managed to get there unwinded. One hour before takeoff, I was seated with a group on the way to Orlando. Airtran has assigned seats so there was not nervous jostling to be first in the “B” line. And, except for some of the more rambunctious children, the area was quiet. It took all of my self-control to not stand up and ask if there were any Fodorites.
Flight was smooth and blessedly quiet. Except for the times the plane was over the water, one could see the ground for most of the flight. Cinnamon cookies were the snacks. No preservatives! Called Biscoff.
We arrived 1 minute early only to find another plane “parked” in our spot so we were about 10 minutes late. It was disconcerting to realize that the plane was making a 180! A long trip via monorail to actual terminal, through lots of eating/shopping places down the escalator and a left to car rentals. Do you want to know what happens if you pack too much in a green wheeled carryon? The pull comes out and won't go back in. You can invert the pull and pull on the handle until the pull breaks in half. Still more fun than checking luggage.
Payless doesn’t have a desk so I lost some time searching. Finally found their courtesy phone and was sent to Slot 12 outside. Waited about 10 minutes and the Payless bus came along. My credit card company assured me that extra insurance was taken care of by them and to not buy from rental company. Raja, the car agent, tried really hard to get me to buy it and made me sign several places absolving them of responsibility.
The car is a Nissan Scion and very much like driving my own little box. I ignored Dundee’s (GPS) direction (it wasn’t my fault—signage was poor) to take the correct exit to route 4 so lost 10 minutes getting turned around. “He” took me to route 429 that really was shorter. Unfortunately, he also took me to an exit for which I didn’t have correct change or a pass (have to check with rental company. Do ask when you rent a car so broke the law but couldn’t get right back on 429! I called police to turn myself in for the 50-cent toll and the officer said, “Don’t worry about it, dear.”
Using the doubtful Dundee to get back, I see a McDonald’s so order a cheeseburger and get some change. OK, I got fries and a shake also. Hadn’t had a meal since dinner the night before. I called Jamie at Simpson's to let her know where I was. Back on 429 and I hit another toll for $1.50 but this one is manned. He wouldn’t take the extra 50 cents but did give me a receipt to send to Payless. ($3.00 in tolls at this point).
Dundee says stay left on 441 when he should have said TURN left so I made an illegal U-ie and low and behold I’m in Mt. Dora very soon! Found a loading spot at the corner of 5th and Donnelly and called Jamie. She had just gone for a jog so I had no worries about help with green bag up the full flight of stairs ('no elevator' alert!) to get to the B&B rooms. All of the nearest public lots were full so I found one 3 blocks away—not really very far if you have no health problems. So far, my breathing is OK.
Next: Simpson's B&B, KaDee Kay kitchen, Maggie's, Cecile's
Last edited by moderator8; Jan 5th, 2020 at 04:23 PM.
Jul 21st, 2013, 02:38 PM
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TDudette, about tolls here - it's standard practice here for the major car rental companies to just pass the toll charges on to you (they will bill the credit card you used to rent the car) and save you the trouble of stopping to pay. Something like 6 of our 7 major highways are toll roads....
Now, Payless is not one of those, so I checked their Orlando site for their policy:
"You are responsible for paying all tolls incurred while using the vehicle. If you incur a toll
during the rental period without paying the toll in cash and we, or our agent must pay the toll
on your behalf, you will be charged a Convenience Fee of $2.95 per rental day up to a
maximum of $14.75 per rental plus the published toll fee at the time you incur the toll. Tolls
will be processed after the return of the Vehicle and will be charged to the Credit or Debit
Card you provided for the rental. Charges will appear as a separate line item on your credit
card or bank statement."
So - at this point, don't bother to stop at any toll booths, since you will be charged the daily convenience fee + toll anyway. No worries.
P.S. I travel the Florida Turnpike and the 429 every day to get to work. Those tolls DO add up, don't they?
Now, Payless is not one of those, so I checked their Orlando site for their policy:
"You are responsible for paying all tolls incurred while using the vehicle. If you incur a toll
during the rental period without paying the toll in cash and we, or our agent must pay the toll
on your behalf, you will be charged a Convenience Fee of $2.95 per rental day up to a
maximum of $14.75 per rental plus the published toll fee at the time you incur the toll. Tolls
will be processed after the return of the Vehicle and will be charged to the Credit or Debit
Card you provided for the rental. Charges will appear as a separate line item on your credit
card or bank statement."
So - at this point, don't bother to stop at any toll booths, since you will be charged the daily convenience fee + toll anyway. No worries.
P.S. I travel the Florida Turnpike and the 429 every day to get to work. Those tolls DO add up, don't they?
Last edited by moderator8; Jan 5th, 2020 at 04:27 PM.
Jul 22nd, 2013, 06:17 AM
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Thanks for checking, sludick! Great info for any visiting Florida driver.
Back to the TR:
About Simpson’s B&B
Pros: Charming doors with transoms and screened doors hark back to days before A/C. Very comfortable room, bed and wonderful bathroom.
Cons: No parking—use free public lots. There is one right outside the back entry though.
Flight of stairs required
No wi-fi but nearby cafés have it. Computer picked up a nearby signal for email only.
The staff isn’t there daily but are just a call away.
___________
The room (“Jim’s Suite”) is wonderful and the first to be renovated. It is also the smallest. A kitchenette is on the right and a round table for 2 on the right. The table is set nicely with square plates/chargers. There are snacks, cookies, coffee, hot choc and tea available. Dividing the room on the left is a love seat that faces a nice side chair with footrest and mounted flat TV.
Behind the love seat and on the opposite wall is a king (I believe) bed. To the left an armoire and a new bathroom with plenty of counter space. Although the furnishings are not top of the line, the suite is pleasant, comfortable and plenty large for 1 person. Would be fine for 2 average-sized folks as well.
By the time I unpacked and sat for a few minutes, it was after 2. I started a stroll along Donnelly Street and visited several shops. A right turn to the previously-visited KaDee Kay revealed the entire street being torn up. I stopped to say hello to owner Karen. Shop busy despite facing a closed street. Cecile’s French Corner very quiet so I ordered a Crepe Normandy (Chicken/mushrooms/cream sauce--$12 with tax) to go to warm up later in microwave. The little alley I mentioned in Feb’s TR is still there and one shop still available to rent. Maggie’s Attic sells all kinds of wine and beer. I stopped in and mentioned liking Australian Shiraz and owner sold me “19 Crimes,” a 2012 red table wine (he also opened it but I did find a corkscrew in the room later). It’s $20 price reduced to $14 on sale. He also carries Rioja. Tomorrow night will be a tasting including Italian wines. Cost $15.
Back to the room to write up notes and try to stay awake but was unsuccessful at the latter. Awoke at 3 a.m. but able to sleep until 7:30. Although not a huge showerhead, shower was wonderful and water stayed warm throughout. Bamboo tea shampoo and other personal items provided so that was lovely. Thick, thick white towels!
Saturday, 18 July 2013
Breakfast: 2 coffees, egg/sausage/cheese wrap and apple Danish (around $10 plus free wi-fi)
Lunch: Cobb salad, cinnamon cake, cappuccino ($18.46)
Dinner: Some of last night’s leftovers
Strolled to Arbor Gourmet coffee shop (I had spied the “free wifi” and “open at 7 a.m.” sign yesterday. On the way, I realized the public parking lot closer to B&B was nearly empty so I move my rental car there. Will try very hard to not move the car! Oh, it’s a Cube not a Scion.
Spoke with owner, Terry at some length. The empty space down the alley rents for $2,500 a month! He and wife Bobbie have been here about 5 years (from Ohio) and love it.
On the walk back, I went down an alley to Merrill’s Market. Supposedly has food. It’s not open past opening time. I can see plenty of wine bottles. Doubt they’ll sell mouthwash! Walked back to Donnelly Street and stopped at 2 of the places on the map that even hinted about food but no luck. Deposited computer in room and went left to 5th Avenue. Spot a realty office and go in. Am greeted by Steven and we sit until 3:00 going through listings that fit my uncertain criteria. He will take me to 16 places on Wednesday and Thursday. My homework is to weight the listings so we can make the most of our time at each place. We shall see.
Continued strolling and stopped at Walk in the Woods. Found a pair of shoes that fit more snugly than my current ones and were cheap so wore them out of the store. Crossed the street and continue walking and looking. Back to Donnelly but on the other side of the street. There are too many shops to even try to describe in this little town. I go to Cody’s for cobb salad and water. Cap and cake for dessert. I will have breakfast here tomorrow through B&B and see a “free wifi” sign there. Waitperson/manager says that Mrs. Cody is in France.
Stroll back to room around 5 and the skies open up. By the time for the wine tasting, it’s still rainy so I decide I’ll just save the $15 fee and buy another wine tomorrow. Re-warmed half of the crepe for dinner and finished up the snacks. Stayed in for the rest of the night.
Sunday, 21 July 2013
Breakfast: Cody’s ($5? Special rate with Simpson’s) Bacon/egg sandwich, coffee, OJ and small coffee cake
Linner (lunch/dinner): Pot Roast, Chocolate Cake, Glass of wine ($28.30 before tip)
Alarm works! Up at 7 and at Cody’s by 8 for pre-arranged breakfast. Nice little bowl of all kinds of fruit, bacon and egg sandwich and small slice of cinnamon coffee cake are good. Free wifi so I’ll stay until my welcome is worn out or battery fails and down-load realtor’s list. I stayed welcomed and the battery held up!
I got through the first 16 listings and made an Excel spread sheet. Things like low HOA, low taxes and curb appeal get checks. About half have higher marks. Will finish the next 11 tomorrow and email to Steven. Deposited my computer back in the room and continued my Mt. Dora stroll. Back to 5th Ave. and down to Lake Dora. There are some gorgeous houses there. Torn up area is a real mess but will be a wonderful pedestrian area in October. I walked to the public pier and saw the tour boat, took shots and moseyed back to the cute alley.
Stopped back at Maggie’s Attic and Adrian says over 100 people were there last night. She sold me a San Giorgio alle Rose Chianti on sale from $17 to $14. She also jotted down the names of places she and her husband have looked to buy once they get a nest egg together. Said hello to KaDee Kay and Arbor Gourmet folks. Bought a blueberry scone from the latter to keep in the fridge for a future breakfast.
Stopped by the Windsor Rose English Tea Room and Restaurant. Town map indicated that they sell groceries. Such a cute place! Inside all decorated with English “stuff” and one wall lined with teas, tea pots, biscuits and such. But no real groceries (or mouth wash!) so I ended up with some fruit mints and a promise to come back for the pot roast special later.
Back to the room to drop off purchases and organize my pictures and bag. Great to be so convenient to site-seeing and sleeping at the same time, eh? Truly, if you are considering saving money by staying in the suburbs, please add the huge advantage of running to your room easily before you decide!
Back to 5th Avenue but going east this time. I pass a design/gift store, ice cream palace and cupcake store (moving to 4th FYI) and come to the Mt. Dora Center for the Arts. It is closed. Artisans on 5th Street is open and I spend a long time looking at art work. Then chat with Heather and Karen there and learn some details about the organization. I also get the business cards of 2 of the artists whose work appealed.
Went along to Baker and passed Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill and somehow missed a photo store. Back to 4th Avenue and continued my stroll—stopping and chatting as I felt like it. Back to Tea Room for pot roast!
This is a cute place. Friendly wait staff in black with white maid’s aprons. Commemorative plates, pictures of royalty and tea things cover the walls. A list on the table has 2 columns in 8-point, single-spaced type of flavors of tea available on one side and 12 wines on the other. I forgot to note the beers and whiskeys that were listed on the menu, but there were some. Waitperson says they will have a baby shower for the new royal. I might get to attend.
The pot roast is fork-tender and served over a bed of roasted potatoes, carrots, onions, celery and red pepper. Two little Yorkshire puddings are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Yum! I could only eat about half to have room for chocolate cake with a raspberry custard filling! Ordered Root 1 Carmenere red wine. It was heavy and peppery but fine with the red meat. Don’t tell the wine police, but I put some ice in it. Ate about ¾ of the cake. Left with a bag of food to eat another day.
Outside it is pretty hot and humid. Not as bad as Maryland last week but still hot. My third trek up the stairs back to Jim’s room and I have not used the nebulizer today for the first time in months. A great and hopeful thing.
As I plug in the Kindle, a camera battery and the computer, I’m struck by how travel has changed since 1984 when DH and I first went to Greece. I had a 35 mm camera and kept an armed guard from putting my unexposed film through the x-ray machine. I think they weighed luggage but don’t recall if extra was charged for overweight. There was one screen in the plane and everyone watched the same movie.
Today, most hotels have hair dryers and toiletries and one can purchase major brands at most destinations in the world so no need to pack them. As mentioned earlier, today my bag is filled with chargers. Now that I’m older, with medicine also. I must remember to take copies of prescriptions but again, not so much a big deal in our ever-shrinking world.
Another thunder boomer and I’ve decided to call it a day. I’ll drive to a big box store in the a.m. tomorrow. No one has keeled over from my bad breath yet.
Next: A continued search for mouthwash.
Back to the TR:
About Simpson’s B&B
Pros: Charming doors with transoms and screened doors hark back to days before A/C. Very comfortable room, bed and wonderful bathroom.
Cons: No parking—use free public lots. There is one right outside the back entry though.
Flight of stairs required
No wi-fi but nearby cafés have it. Computer picked up a nearby signal for email only.
The staff isn’t there daily but are just a call away.
___________
The room (“Jim’s Suite”) is wonderful and the first to be renovated. It is also the smallest. A kitchenette is on the right and a round table for 2 on the right. The table is set nicely with square plates/chargers. There are snacks, cookies, coffee, hot choc and tea available. Dividing the room on the left is a love seat that faces a nice side chair with footrest and mounted flat TV.
Behind the love seat and on the opposite wall is a king (I believe) bed. To the left an armoire and a new bathroom with plenty of counter space. Although the furnishings are not top of the line, the suite is pleasant, comfortable and plenty large for 1 person. Would be fine for 2 average-sized folks as well.
By the time I unpacked and sat for a few minutes, it was after 2. I started a stroll along Donnelly Street and visited several shops. A right turn to the previously-visited KaDee Kay revealed the entire street being torn up. I stopped to say hello to owner Karen. Shop busy despite facing a closed street. Cecile’s French Corner very quiet so I ordered a Crepe Normandy (Chicken/mushrooms/cream sauce--$12 with tax) to go to warm up later in microwave. The little alley I mentioned in Feb’s TR is still there and one shop still available to rent. Maggie’s Attic sells all kinds of wine and beer. I stopped in and mentioned liking Australian Shiraz and owner sold me “19 Crimes,” a 2012 red table wine (he also opened it but I did find a corkscrew in the room later). It’s $20 price reduced to $14 on sale. He also carries Rioja. Tomorrow night will be a tasting including Italian wines. Cost $15.
Back to the room to write up notes and try to stay awake but was unsuccessful at the latter. Awoke at 3 a.m. but able to sleep until 7:30. Although not a huge showerhead, shower was wonderful and water stayed warm throughout. Bamboo tea shampoo and other personal items provided so that was lovely. Thick, thick white towels!
Saturday, 18 July 2013
Breakfast: 2 coffees, egg/sausage/cheese wrap and apple Danish (around $10 plus free wi-fi)
Lunch: Cobb salad, cinnamon cake, cappuccino ($18.46)
Dinner: Some of last night’s leftovers
Strolled to Arbor Gourmet coffee shop (I had spied the “free wifi” and “open at 7 a.m.” sign yesterday. On the way, I realized the public parking lot closer to B&B was nearly empty so I move my rental car there. Will try very hard to not move the car! Oh, it’s a Cube not a Scion.
Spoke with owner, Terry at some length. The empty space down the alley rents for $2,500 a month! He and wife Bobbie have been here about 5 years (from Ohio) and love it.
On the walk back, I went down an alley to Merrill’s Market. Supposedly has food. It’s not open past opening time. I can see plenty of wine bottles. Doubt they’ll sell mouthwash! Walked back to Donnelly Street and stopped at 2 of the places on the map that even hinted about food but no luck. Deposited computer in room and went left to 5th Avenue. Spot a realty office and go in. Am greeted by Steven and we sit until 3:00 going through listings that fit my uncertain criteria. He will take me to 16 places on Wednesday and Thursday. My homework is to weight the listings so we can make the most of our time at each place. We shall see.
Continued strolling and stopped at Walk in the Woods. Found a pair of shoes that fit more snugly than my current ones and were cheap so wore them out of the store. Crossed the street and continue walking and looking. Back to Donnelly but on the other side of the street. There are too many shops to even try to describe in this little town. I go to Cody’s for cobb salad and water. Cap and cake for dessert. I will have breakfast here tomorrow through B&B and see a “free wifi” sign there. Waitperson/manager says that Mrs. Cody is in France.
Stroll back to room around 5 and the skies open up. By the time for the wine tasting, it’s still rainy so I decide I’ll just save the $15 fee and buy another wine tomorrow. Re-warmed half of the crepe for dinner and finished up the snacks. Stayed in for the rest of the night.
Sunday, 21 July 2013
Breakfast: Cody’s ($5? Special rate with Simpson’s) Bacon/egg sandwich, coffee, OJ and small coffee cake
Linner (lunch/dinner): Pot Roast, Chocolate Cake, Glass of wine ($28.30 before tip)
Alarm works! Up at 7 and at Cody’s by 8 for pre-arranged breakfast. Nice little bowl of all kinds of fruit, bacon and egg sandwich and small slice of cinnamon coffee cake are good. Free wifi so I’ll stay until my welcome is worn out or battery fails and down-load realtor’s list. I stayed welcomed and the battery held up!
I got through the first 16 listings and made an Excel spread sheet. Things like low HOA, low taxes and curb appeal get checks. About half have higher marks. Will finish the next 11 tomorrow and email to Steven. Deposited my computer back in the room and continued my Mt. Dora stroll. Back to 5th Ave. and down to Lake Dora. There are some gorgeous houses there. Torn up area is a real mess but will be a wonderful pedestrian area in October. I walked to the public pier and saw the tour boat, took shots and moseyed back to the cute alley.
Stopped back at Maggie’s Attic and Adrian says over 100 people were there last night. She sold me a San Giorgio alle Rose Chianti on sale from $17 to $14. She also jotted down the names of places she and her husband have looked to buy once they get a nest egg together. Said hello to KaDee Kay and Arbor Gourmet folks. Bought a blueberry scone from the latter to keep in the fridge for a future breakfast.
Stopped by the Windsor Rose English Tea Room and Restaurant. Town map indicated that they sell groceries. Such a cute place! Inside all decorated with English “stuff” and one wall lined with teas, tea pots, biscuits and such. But no real groceries (or mouth wash!) so I ended up with some fruit mints and a promise to come back for the pot roast special later.
Back to the room to drop off purchases and organize my pictures and bag. Great to be so convenient to site-seeing and sleeping at the same time, eh? Truly, if you are considering saving money by staying in the suburbs, please add the huge advantage of running to your room easily before you decide!
Back to 5th Avenue but going east this time. I pass a design/gift store, ice cream palace and cupcake store (moving to 4th FYI) and come to the Mt. Dora Center for the Arts. It is closed. Artisans on 5th Street is open and I spend a long time looking at art work. Then chat with Heather and Karen there and learn some details about the organization. I also get the business cards of 2 of the artists whose work appealed.
Went along to Baker and passed Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill and somehow missed a photo store. Back to 4th Avenue and continued my stroll—stopping and chatting as I felt like it. Back to Tea Room for pot roast!
This is a cute place. Friendly wait staff in black with white maid’s aprons. Commemorative plates, pictures of royalty and tea things cover the walls. A list on the table has 2 columns in 8-point, single-spaced type of flavors of tea available on one side and 12 wines on the other. I forgot to note the beers and whiskeys that were listed on the menu, but there were some. Waitperson says they will have a baby shower for the new royal. I might get to attend.
The pot roast is fork-tender and served over a bed of roasted potatoes, carrots, onions, celery and red pepper. Two little Yorkshire puddings are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Yum! I could only eat about half to have room for chocolate cake with a raspberry custard filling! Ordered Root 1 Carmenere red wine. It was heavy and peppery but fine with the red meat. Don’t tell the wine police, but I put some ice in it. Ate about ¾ of the cake. Left with a bag of food to eat another day.
Outside it is pretty hot and humid. Not as bad as Maryland last week but still hot. My third trek up the stairs back to Jim’s room and I have not used the nebulizer today for the first time in months. A great and hopeful thing.
As I plug in the Kindle, a camera battery and the computer, I’m struck by how travel has changed since 1984 when DH and I first went to Greece. I had a 35 mm camera and kept an armed guard from putting my unexposed film through the x-ray machine. I think they weighed luggage but don’t recall if extra was charged for overweight. There was one screen in the plane and everyone watched the same movie.
Today, most hotels have hair dryers and toiletries and one can purchase major brands at most destinations in the world so no need to pack them. As mentioned earlier, today my bag is filled with chargers. Now that I’m older, with medicine also. I must remember to take copies of prescriptions but again, not so much a big deal in our ever-shrinking world.
Another thunder boomer and I’ve decided to call it a day. I’ll drive to a big box store in the a.m. tomorrow. No one has keeled over from my bad breath yet.
Next: A continued search for mouthwash.
Jul 25th, 2013, 05:58 AM
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Did I say how nice it is to be right in the historic area of a place?
Monday, 22 July 2013
Breakfast: Cody’s, $13 Crustless spinach/feta quiche
Lunch: Village Coffee Shop, $? Chicken salad sandwich
Dinner: Leftover pot roast in room
Up at 7 and back to Cody’s at 7:45. Quiche was a tad dry but good. Mrs. Cody is back from a wedding near Lyon, France. Has lived in Mt. D around 8 years and loves it.
I read the last 11 house descriptions on-line, completed another Excel chart and sent everything back to Steven. It was 10:30 by the time I finished. The breakfast pass only saved $3 btw—I mistakenly wrote $5 for breakfast on Sunday. As I passed the parking lot where “cube” is living, I realize it’s full. Hmmm. Do I really want to go to Walgreen’s? Take computer back to room and Cindy is cleaning and Jamie is here. Also here are 3 members of the Simpson family and Isabelle the pooch. We chat for a while and make plans for my getting away on the following Monday. I do want to pre-print my boarding pass but no one here on Sunday. I bemoan the lack of mouthwash in the historic area.
Get to room and can’t stand the taste in my mouth so give up my spot and drive up Donnelly to the corner of Rte. 441 (around 20 blocks) —the dreaded dual-lane highway with big box stores. Everything needed is there and I take a little ride along 441 noting several of the stores I might need for “big” shopping. Pulled a U-ie and zig-zagged my way back to Simpson’s under quite a few live oaks and Spanish moss.
Pass a rather large high school. The houses got nicer the closer to Lake Dora—not a huge surprise. I drove through a very nice Gilbert Park after I stumbled onto Highland Street (where someone mentioned a self- laundry and Jeremiah’s resto—saw the latter). Back to “my” spot and it is occupied as is the rest of the public lot at the back door of the B&B. I drove around one more time and a miracle occurred as my spot opened up!
Back to room (the stairs are getting to my breathing but they sure help exercise needs). Cindy said they might let me use the “house” washer. That would be a nice surprise--don't think they'd really want to open that door. Back to Donnelly St. and Village Coffee Pot. Chick salad pretty good. Listened to a couple of guys in their 80s gossiping and telling condo “war” stories. They compared ages so I know how old they were.
Time to stroll but I’m greeted by a very large black cloud so I shop my way back to Simpson’s. Find a nifty top at Vincent’s but no room in my bags. I go up the stairs for the 3rd time today to wait out the storm. There I am greeted by the news that an 8-lb., 6-oz. royal boy was born at 4:24 (26?) Read and listen to CNN until rain ends and go out again.
Stop at several more shops and visit a recommended Mt. Dora Coffee House and Bistro for an iced-coffee. Stroll back to Merrill’s and see that “market” has been removed from its name. Live music scheduled! As I go back up Mt. Dora Drawdy Way (where car is located), I realize that it is a one-way street and I went the wrong way on it this a.m. The tea room is closed—I wonder when they’ll have the shower.
Back to the room for the last time 4-ish. Download photos and check emails. I re-heated the pot roast and it is just as tender. Asleep by 9:30.
Tuesday, 23 July 2013
Breakfast: Cody’s, Farmer’s quiche, $10 with Simpson’s coupon
Lunch: Leftover blueberry scone, some cashews
Dinner: Jeremiah’s, Ribs, $21.70
Up at 7 and take my time getting ready watching new baby and news coverage. Back to Cody’s and try the farmer’s (cheese/spinach/red peppers/mushroom/bacon on top) quiche. It is more moist than the spinach/feta. Both crust-less BTW. Gal zapped a blueberry muffin so its texture got nasty—wish she’d toasted it. I’ll be trying other places for breakfast and will try to wait to get online in the hotter part of the day instead of first thing.
Looked for retirement places info online and got number for nearby Waterman Community. I called and have an appointment there this afternoon. Rain began after I returned to the room so wrote emails and read to pass the time. Decided to eat the blueberry scone for lunch. Sorry, I just haven’t found a scone I like and this was no different. Not dry as many I’ve had, but no crunch.
I keep forgetting to mention the ubiquitous little skinks (geckoes?). So far, they skitter away. Very cute.
At 10 of 2, I left to drive up Donnelly to visit Waterman Village. Spent 1.5 hours with Cheryl who drove us, via golf course, to a one-bedroom villa, the grounds and community center and who spent a lot of time crunching numbers.
Drove over to Jermiah’s and ordered ribs, mashed pot and apple sauce. Could barely finish ½ of it so it will be another day’s meal. It was OK but our local Adam’s Ribs are less sweet. Waitperson mentioned that she had just gotten back from vacation. That led me to ask her where a person who already lives in a vacation land actually goes for vacation?? She went to another part of Florida, of course.
Rain sprinkling once again so back to my room. Parking lot clearing out so I get a spot next to “mine”.
Wednesday: Condo searching with Steven
Monday, 22 July 2013
Breakfast: Cody’s, $13 Crustless spinach/feta quiche
Lunch: Village Coffee Shop, $? Chicken salad sandwich
Dinner: Leftover pot roast in room
Up at 7 and back to Cody’s at 7:45. Quiche was a tad dry but good. Mrs. Cody is back from a wedding near Lyon, France. Has lived in Mt. D around 8 years and loves it.
I read the last 11 house descriptions on-line, completed another Excel chart and sent everything back to Steven. It was 10:30 by the time I finished. The breakfast pass only saved $3 btw—I mistakenly wrote $5 for breakfast on Sunday. As I passed the parking lot where “cube” is living, I realize it’s full. Hmmm. Do I really want to go to Walgreen’s? Take computer back to room and Cindy is cleaning and Jamie is here. Also here are 3 members of the Simpson family and Isabelle the pooch. We chat for a while and make plans for my getting away on the following Monday. I do want to pre-print my boarding pass but no one here on Sunday. I bemoan the lack of mouthwash in the historic area.
Get to room and can’t stand the taste in my mouth so give up my spot and drive up Donnelly to the corner of Rte. 441 (around 20 blocks) —the dreaded dual-lane highway with big box stores. Everything needed is there and I take a little ride along 441 noting several of the stores I might need for “big” shopping. Pulled a U-ie and zig-zagged my way back to Simpson’s under quite a few live oaks and Spanish moss.
Pass a rather large high school. The houses got nicer the closer to Lake Dora—not a huge surprise. I drove through a very nice Gilbert Park after I stumbled onto Highland Street (where someone mentioned a self- laundry and Jeremiah’s resto—saw the latter). Back to “my” spot and it is occupied as is the rest of the public lot at the back door of the B&B. I drove around one more time and a miracle occurred as my spot opened up!
Back to room (the stairs are getting to my breathing but they sure help exercise needs). Cindy said they might let me use the “house” washer. That would be a nice surprise--don't think they'd really want to open that door. Back to Donnelly St. and Village Coffee Pot. Chick salad pretty good. Listened to a couple of guys in their 80s gossiping and telling condo “war” stories. They compared ages so I know how old they were.
Time to stroll but I’m greeted by a very large black cloud so I shop my way back to Simpson’s. Find a nifty top at Vincent’s but no room in my bags. I go up the stairs for the 3rd time today to wait out the storm. There I am greeted by the news that an 8-lb., 6-oz. royal boy was born at 4:24 (26?) Read and listen to CNN until rain ends and go out again.
Stop at several more shops and visit a recommended Mt. Dora Coffee House and Bistro for an iced-coffee. Stroll back to Merrill’s and see that “market” has been removed from its name. Live music scheduled! As I go back up Mt. Dora Drawdy Way (where car is located), I realize that it is a one-way street and I went the wrong way on it this a.m. The tea room is closed—I wonder when they’ll have the shower.
Back to the room for the last time 4-ish. Download photos and check emails. I re-heated the pot roast and it is just as tender. Asleep by 9:30.
Tuesday, 23 July 2013
Breakfast: Cody’s, Farmer’s quiche, $10 with Simpson’s coupon
Lunch: Leftover blueberry scone, some cashews
Dinner: Jeremiah’s, Ribs, $21.70
Up at 7 and take my time getting ready watching new baby and news coverage. Back to Cody’s and try the farmer’s (cheese/spinach/red peppers/mushroom/bacon on top) quiche. It is more moist than the spinach/feta. Both crust-less BTW. Gal zapped a blueberry muffin so its texture got nasty—wish she’d toasted it. I’ll be trying other places for breakfast and will try to wait to get online in the hotter part of the day instead of first thing.
Looked for retirement places info online and got number for nearby Waterman Community. I called and have an appointment there this afternoon. Rain began after I returned to the room so wrote emails and read to pass the time. Decided to eat the blueberry scone for lunch. Sorry, I just haven’t found a scone I like and this was no different. Not dry as many I’ve had, but no crunch.
I keep forgetting to mention the ubiquitous little skinks (geckoes?). So far, they skitter away. Very cute.
At 10 of 2, I left to drive up Donnelly to visit Waterman Village. Spent 1.5 hours with Cheryl who drove us, via golf course, to a one-bedroom villa, the grounds and community center and who spent a lot of time crunching numbers.
Drove over to Jermiah’s and ordered ribs, mashed pot and apple sauce. Could barely finish ½ of it so it will be another day’s meal. It was OK but our local Adam’s Ribs are less sweet. Waitperson mentioned that she had just gotten back from vacation. That led me to ask her where a person who already lives in a vacation land actually goes for vacation?? She went to another part of Florida, of course.
Rain sprinkling once again so back to my room. Parking lot clearing out so I get a spot next to “mine”.
Wednesday: Condo searching with Steven
Jul 25th, 2013, 07:50 AM
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Thanks for posting, TDudette, I am enjoying reading about your days in Mt. Dora!
My experiences with baked goods in parts of Florida haven't been all that positive, I'm afraid. I stick to Southern specialties, because what they call scones or croissants or brioche or even bagels in some places just aren't what I expect them to be. They say it's the humidity, but I think that you don't find very sophisticated bakers outside the big cities, which is true in most states, I bet.
Can't wait to hear how your condo search went...
My experiences with baked goods in parts of Florida haven't been all that positive, I'm afraid. I stick to Southern specialties, because what they call scones or croissants or brioche or even bagels in some places just aren't what I expect them to be. They say it's the humidity, but I think that you don't find very sophisticated bakers outside the big cities, which is true in most states, I bet.
Can't wait to hear how your condo search went...
Jul 25th, 2013, 08:41 AM
#12
Great report and now for the harder questions:
assume you are aware of how high property taxes are in Florida as well as the cost of auto insurance not to mention wind insurance (yes you will need it in a condo), right?
assume you are aware of how high property taxes are in Florida as well as the cost of auto insurance not to mention wind insurance (yes you will need it in a condo), right?
Jul 25th, 2013, 01:23 PM
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Thanks for all of the kind words.
NewbE: I've seen a lot of cakes. Coffee cake was very good.
Dukey1: About prop taxes--this condo has a "Y" in the 'Homestead' space and, as a widder, I can get further reductions. I'll be sure to get that pinned down as part of any agreement. My Md. ones aren't all that great. I didn't know about wind ins. but will find out if that's included in the condo insurance. By not needing flood insurance, I hope I'll save a bit. Thank you--I really do appreciate any good info.
Hey yestravel: It's quirky and cute and this area may be on an upswing. Here's hoping so I can flip or rent out the condo if things don't work out.
More TR to follow.
NewbE: I've seen a lot of cakes. Coffee cake was very good.
Dukey1: About prop taxes--this condo has a "Y" in the 'Homestead' space and, as a widder, I can get further reductions. I'll be sure to get that pinned down as part of any agreement. My Md. ones aren't all that great. I didn't know about wind ins. but will find out if that's included in the condo insurance. By not needing flood insurance, I hope I'll save a bit. Thank you--I really do appreciate any good info.
Hey yestravel: It's quirky and cute and this area may be on an upswing. Here's hoping so I can flip or rent out the condo if things don't work out.
More TR to follow.
Jul 25th, 2013, 05:31 PM
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TDudette, it sounds like you are enjoying Mt Dora.
From your reference to jostling for spaces in B group it seems you are unaware that now on SW you get a specific boarding number within each boarding group, so no jostling.
From your reference to jostling for spaces in B group it seems you are unaware that now on SW you get a specific boarding number within each boarding group, so no jostling.
Jul 26th, 2013, 05:31 AM
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Hey jubi, No, I didn't know that SW has done that. Can assigned seats be far behind?
TR:
Spent the rest of the evening reading emails and a good book.
Wed. 24 July 2013
Breakfast: Bacon and egg at Cody’s $8
Lunch: Casa Mia, Caesar salad, Prosciutto and peas fettuccine, one glass Chianti, Cannoli’s for 2, $43.29 for 2 people
Dinner: One Flight Up, Turkey and Swiss on white toast, 2 glasses of shiraz, $24.3
Up and out early to be ready for the 9 a.m. appt. with realtor Steven. I have sent him my excel chart showing the places that got my highest score on paper and ask that he feel free to over-rule or insert choices. At his office, we get everything in order for visiting efficiency and he has a few realtors who haven’t returned his courtesy calls (“I’m taking a client to your listing and wish to confirm that it is OK”).
We look at 7 in Mt. Dora and then break for lunch at Casa Mia in Tavares (“Home of the Bi-Planes”) and we look at 3 more nearby.
I liked one in Mt. Dora but LOVED one in Tavares. The owners were there and Steven and I sat and chatted with them for a long time. It was the least “cookie cutter” of all we had seen. Back to Mt. Dora and we talked and talked about how to choose. We part with promise to talk on Thursday a.m. Steven will informally chat with the other brokers involved.
A new place to try is One Flight Up. It is one flight up in a French Quarter-looking building with wrought iron decoration. They open at 8 for breakfast and have wifi! It is almost directly across the street from Simpson's. Roger there sat down and talked with me about places to look. Fortunately, they all coincided with today’s junket.
I took ½ sandwich home and I spent the evening wondering what to do about the condos today.
Thursday, 25 July 2013
Breakfast: One Flight Up, Egg and sausage on English muffin, coffee,
TR:
Spent the rest of the evening reading emails and a good book.
Wed. 24 July 2013
Breakfast: Bacon and egg at Cody’s $8
Lunch: Casa Mia, Caesar salad, Prosciutto and peas fettuccine, one glass Chianti, Cannoli’s for 2, $43.29 for 2 people
Dinner: One Flight Up, Turkey and Swiss on white toast, 2 glasses of shiraz, $24.3
Up and out early to be ready for the 9 a.m. appt. with realtor Steven. I have sent him my excel chart showing the places that got my highest score on paper and ask that he feel free to over-rule or insert choices. At his office, we get everything in order for visiting efficiency and he has a few realtors who haven’t returned his courtesy calls (“I’m taking a client to your listing and wish to confirm that it is OK”).
We look at 7 in Mt. Dora and then break for lunch at Casa Mia in Tavares (“Home of the Bi-Planes”) and we look at 3 more nearby.
I liked one in Mt. Dora but LOVED one in Tavares. The owners were there and Steven and I sat and chatted with them for a long time. It was the least “cookie cutter” of all we had seen. Back to Mt. Dora and we talked and talked about how to choose. We part with promise to talk on Thursday a.m. Steven will informally chat with the other brokers involved.
A new place to try is One Flight Up. It is one flight up in a French Quarter-looking building with wrought iron decoration. They open at 8 for breakfast and have wifi! It is almost directly across the street from Simpson's. Roger there sat down and talked with me about places to look. Fortunately, they all coincided with today’s junket.
I took ½ sandwich home and I spent the evening wondering what to do about the condos today.
Thursday, 25 July 2013
Breakfast: One Flight Up, Egg and sausage on English muffin, coffee,
Jul 26th, 2013, 01:16 PM
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I hope you enjoy Winter Park! We love the Tiffany museum there, and I do think there are a quite a few nice restaurants, including a nationally renowned gastropub, The Ravenous Pig. Cute shops, too. Anyway, can't wait to read the next installment...
Jul 27th, 2013, 06:55 AM
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Thanks, jubi.
NewbE, please read below but I did like Winter Park a lot. Didn't take time for the art gallery this time.
TR: Friday, 26 July 2013
Breakfast: One Flight Up, Spinach quiche, lemon pound cake, coffee $?
Lunch: Paris Bistro, 216 N. Park Ave., Chicken on croissant, coffee, $11.13
Dinner: Warmed up ribs
Up at seven and over to OFU across the street. The quiche had a crust but it was a little soft so I’m wondering if it was micro-waved. Cake delish and will be 2 more servings. Spoke with Jodie and she told me about the back stairs.
Checked condo listings in Winter Park. The ones in my price range look like older brick buildings. Back to room to park the computer, then off to Winter Park. Dundee wants to take us on a toll road. My map shows a back way so I ignore Dundee until I "chicken out" and follow his directions. Of course, I pass the road I thought I would take and will return the way I had originally planned. I wish for a real navigator and then say “suck it up” and get my nerves back.
JR and I bought our first GPS 6 years ago. One problem is that GPS goes on one side of a square and I go on another. Possibly because my left-sidedness leads to this conflict. Wresting navigation control from someone who is always certain and often wrong can be a recipe for mix-ups. On the other hand, both Steven’s and my Garmin put the Tavares condo on the left side of the road rather than the right.
Winter Park. The historic area has a nice park on one side of the road and more upscale shops than Mt. Adorable. I had passed a Talbot’s with “Sale” sign so go around the block to follow parking garage signs and park nearby. Free three-hour spaces line both sides of Park Avenue. At noon on a Friday in July, they are filled. This must be a “joy” in winter time.
Smartly, the first several levels of the parking garage (this one free) are reserved for government workers. I have to go to 5th floor, the roof top level, where there are 4 or 5 free spaces. Elevator down and I stroll toward Talbot’s. Passing Paris Bistro and nice young man (who kindly calls me ‘Miss’) shows me the lunch menu. I tell him I’ll return after shopping and I do (after buying t-shirt and jeans at T’s!). Nice folks in T’s say that Winter Park is just as quirky as Mt. Dora—don’t let the upscale buildings fool you.
Back to Bistro and maitre d’ leads me into a very nice inside dining room with dark red velveteen banquettes around the back walls, toile-looking wall paper, European art work, and coffered ceiling. Excellent Josh is waitperson. Moved here from Milwaukee 3 years ago and loving the weather so far. By the way, I’m appalled at the way some businesses leave their doors open with A/C running.
I call Steven and tell him I won’t have enough working capital to own 2 houses at the same time so we’d better put things on hold. Not to be discouraged, he said he’d think on it. We’ll still meet on Sunday so I can see what he comes up with. Owners might rent to me for a while. I'll just take paper work home with me to Md.
Strolled some more. Stopped at Timothy’s Gallery. Clerk said owners of 25 years mostly buy from the Craft Council. Indeed I saw pieces that I’ve seen in Annapolis shops. Pretty painted round table and 4 chairs. Back to car and took my originally-planned route back. Got to see some cr*ppy-looking outlying areas in the half hour trip. Churches look better than homes and there are quite a few boarded up businesses.
Had to park in a lot 2 blocks south of B&B but it affords a nice stroll and more shopping. Found a tee shirt for the neighbor who picked up my mail that reads ‘I climbed Mt. Dora! Elevation 144 feet’ and looked at more shops.
Back to room and the wifi signal I’ve been getting for email won’t come up so I guess I’ll wait until a.m. to check it. Maybe something will change later. Downloaded 10 more photos and watched a “Castle” rerun. Cody’s will have a trivia party tonight at 6:45. I might go.
I warm up the ribs and they are more tender now. Go figure. Down to Cody’s for trivia and found an almost full café. Connie and Jeff run this weekly. She paired me with Sandra. Sandra has lived in Mt. Dora for 6 years and has dealt with the stroke that took her walking and some speech when she was 42. She is 70 now but keeps on plugging,
We tied for last place with Mr. and Mrs. Cody but had a great time. We would have come in 3rd but we bet the maximum on the final bonus question and went down in flames. We did win 2 scratch-off cards for knowing that Mick Jagger was 22 when he wrote “Mother’s Little Helper”. (We guessed) We earned $2 that will go to her grandchildren. We exchanged cards and I realized that she lives in a sweet place I’ve passed and almost taken a photo of—will do so now with her kind permission.
Back to room to continue pondering. I hear a door close. Jamie has said that Linda from store below will be spending the night. Hope it is she. I’ve decided to send home some clothes rather than buy another suitcase, so sorted out stuff.
Saturday, 27 July 2013
Breakfast: Arbor, coffee and bun, $4.24 then Cody’s coffee and OJ, $4.00
Lunch:
Dinner:
Out the door at 8:30 and Linda pokes her head out from the opposite suite. Offers boxes from her store as mailers but I gratefully decline. Ran over to Arbor to check messages then went to PO and spent $21 to send home a box of dirty clothes (and nice scissors that somehow didn’t get confiscated on the way here)—cheaper than a new suitcase, eh? Back to my lot and there are still spaces. Still wanting coffee so went to Cody’s. Gal (Kim?) from last night on duty this a.m.—she and boyfriend coming to DC next month. Sandra and her grandson, Alex come in. He thanks us for the $2—nice kid.
They talk about how they were robbed in various places in the world. Sandra has a friend who buys junky purses to carry in her travels.
I’m going to go back to the room now then be a tourist again. Photos to come when I return to Md.
NewbE, please read below but I did like Winter Park a lot. Didn't take time for the art gallery this time.
TR: Friday, 26 July 2013
Breakfast: One Flight Up, Spinach quiche, lemon pound cake, coffee $?
Lunch: Paris Bistro, 216 N. Park Ave., Chicken on croissant, coffee, $11.13
Dinner: Warmed up ribs
Up at seven and over to OFU across the street. The quiche had a crust but it was a little soft so I’m wondering if it was micro-waved. Cake delish and will be 2 more servings. Spoke with Jodie and she told me about the back stairs.
Checked condo listings in Winter Park. The ones in my price range look like older brick buildings. Back to room to park the computer, then off to Winter Park. Dundee wants to take us on a toll road. My map shows a back way so I ignore Dundee until I "chicken out" and follow his directions. Of course, I pass the road I thought I would take and will return the way I had originally planned. I wish for a real navigator and then say “suck it up” and get my nerves back.
JR and I bought our first GPS 6 years ago. One problem is that GPS goes on one side of a square and I go on another. Possibly because my left-sidedness leads to this conflict. Wresting navigation control from someone who is always certain and often wrong can be a recipe for mix-ups. On the other hand, both Steven’s and my Garmin put the Tavares condo on the left side of the road rather than the right.
Winter Park. The historic area has a nice park on one side of the road and more upscale shops than Mt. Adorable. I had passed a Talbot’s with “Sale” sign so go around the block to follow parking garage signs and park nearby. Free three-hour spaces line both sides of Park Avenue. At noon on a Friday in July, they are filled. This must be a “joy” in winter time.
Smartly, the first several levels of the parking garage (this one free) are reserved for government workers. I have to go to 5th floor, the roof top level, where there are 4 or 5 free spaces. Elevator down and I stroll toward Talbot’s. Passing Paris Bistro and nice young man (who kindly calls me ‘Miss’) shows me the lunch menu. I tell him I’ll return after shopping and I do (after buying t-shirt and jeans at T’s!). Nice folks in T’s say that Winter Park is just as quirky as Mt. Dora—don’t let the upscale buildings fool you.
Back to Bistro and maitre d’ leads me into a very nice inside dining room with dark red velveteen banquettes around the back walls, toile-looking wall paper, European art work, and coffered ceiling. Excellent Josh is waitperson. Moved here from Milwaukee 3 years ago and loving the weather so far. By the way, I’m appalled at the way some businesses leave their doors open with A/C running.
I call Steven and tell him I won’t have enough working capital to own 2 houses at the same time so we’d better put things on hold. Not to be discouraged, he said he’d think on it. We’ll still meet on Sunday so I can see what he comes up with. Owners might rent to me for a while. I'll just take paper work home with me to Md.
Strolled some more. Stopped at Timothy’s Gallery. Clerk said owners of 25 years mostly buy from the Craft Council. Indeed I saw pieces that I’ve seen in Annapolis shops. Pretty painted round table and 4 chairs. Back to car and took my originally-planned route back. Got to see some cr*ppy-looking outlying areas in the half hour trip. Churches look better than homes and there are quite a few boarded up businesses.
Had to park in a lot 2 blocks south of B&B but it affords a nice stroll and more shopping. Found a tee shirt for the neighbor who picked up my mail that reads ‘I climbed Mt. Dora! Elevation 144 feet’ and looked at more shops.
Back to room and the wifi signal I’ve been getting for email won’t come up so I guess I’ll wait until a.m. to check it. Maybe something will change later. Downloaded 10 more photos and watched a “Castle” rerun. Cody’s will have a trivia party tonight at 6:45. I might go.
I warm up the ribs and they are more tender now. Go figure. Down to Cody’s for trivia and found an almost full café. Connie and Jeff run this weekly. She paired me with Sandra. Sandra has lived in Mt. Dora for 6 years and has dealt with the stroke that took her walking and some speech when she was 42. She is 70 now but keeps on plugging,
We tied for last place with Mr. and Mrs. Cody but had a great time. We would have come in 3rd but we bet the maximum on the final bonus question and went down in flames. We did win 2 scratch-off cards for knowing that Mick Jagger was 22 when he wrote “Mother’s Little Helper”. (We guessed) We earned $2 that will go to her grandchildren. We exchanged cards and I realized that she lives in a sweet place I’ve passed and almost taken a photo of—will do so now with her kind permission.
Back to room to continue pondering. I hear a door close. Jamie has said that Linda from store below will be spending the night. Hope it is she. I’ve decided to send home some clothes rather than buy another suitcase, so sorted out stuff.
Saturday, 27 July 2013
Breakfast: Arbor, coffee and bun, $4.24 then Cody’s coffee and OJ, $4.00
Lunch:
Dinner:
Out the door at 8:30 and Linda pokes her head out from the opposite suite. Offers boxes from her store as mailers but I gratefully decline. Ran over to Arbor to check messages then went to PO and spent $21 to send home a box of dirty clothes (and nice scissors that somehow didn’t get confiscated on the way here)—cheaper than a new suitcase, eh? Back to my lot and there are still spaces. Still wanting coffee so went to Cody’s. Gal (Kim?) from last night on duty this a.m.—she and boyfriend coming to DC next month. Sandra and her grandson, Alex come in. He thanks us for the $2—nice kid.
They talk about how they were robbed in various places in the world. Sandra has a friend who buys junky purses to carry in her travels.
I’m going to go back to the room now then be a tourist again. Photos to come when I return to Md.
