Destin and Pensacola - the Florida Panhandle

December 11 - 18th

After a week at the happiest place on earth, we were ready for some more time at the beach. So, we decided to make a stop at the beautiful sugar-white beaches of the Florida panhandle. The white sands, contrasted by the emerald green waters of the Gulf are absolutely breathtaking - just as we both remembered it - me, from my short stay at the beginning of Naval flight training, and for Mary Margaret, from her year and a half in the UWF sports medicine graduate program.

In Blackmarr fashion, we arrived after dark - making for an enjoyable drive through the crowded streets of Fort Walton Beach (did I mention to double-check GPS routing after a fuel/food stop on the road trip?). The RV park was a short distance to the beach (<.5 miles), but of course, walking there would mean playing a real-life game of frogger (or Crossy Road for the younger generation). It has taken us about 4 months, and 30+ campgrounds to understand that many of these places lack any multi-modal transportation options...meaning you are basically trapped unless you pile into the truck. Nevertheless, it was nice to be close to the beach and more importantly, have access to a heated pool for the boys.

Cooler weather prevented us from spending much time at the beach this week, but we took the opportunity to catch up on work/school, as well as pay a visit to Naval Air Station Pensacola. Courtesy of an old friend who is now the Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels, we had the showtime for a previously unscheduled Blues practice at the airfield. Even though we weren't able to enter the flight line (COVID strikes again) the practice was amazing! It was especially unique to be able to see them practicing with their newly acquired Super Hornets - what an amazing aircraft to take into the next generation of Blue Angels.

After the "air show", we took the opportunity to tour the Museum of Naval Aviation. Due to COVID, entry is limited to those who can get through the gates, so we had the place virtually to ourselves. What an amazing way to wrap up our visit to this part of Florida!