November 27, 2015

St. Augustine Beach

There’s something about the ocean that draws all sorts of visitors, even those who, like myself, don’t swim and couldn’t care less about sunbathing. Maybe it’s the power, the beauty, the hypnotizing ebb and tide. Whatever it is, it’s special. No that’s not an orb (or a ghost) in the upper center left of the photo; it’s a reflection from the sun. No, really. If you want ghosts, just head into St. Augustine. (Just kidding. Maybe . . .)

González-Alvarez “Oldest” House

This authentic colonial house is well-worth a visit. With its bottom level constructed around 1728, it’s one of the oldest structures in St. Augustine (ask the British why; a Spanish victory in the siege of 1702 spawned a retaliatory burning which destroyed the entire town, and now you’re lucky to find a hint of that era here and there). The older part of the house dates from the mid-to-late 1700s. It’s fun for me to imagine who walked up those stairs. Did they creak? (I know they creaked when I was there). Did any children spend hours peering from the window? Did any unsteady hands hold onto the wooden railing for dear life? This is the stuff that makes St. Augustine’s history fascinating, the little things. Not just the pirate raids, sieges, hurricanes, and floods . . . everyday life. 

(c) 2015 St. Augustine Fridays

November 20, 2015

Mission Nombre de Dios

The Chapel of La Leche is relatively small, but that’s part of its charm. (Not that it needs a reason . . . it’s the perfect ‘quiet place’ we all crave). You can’t fit a whole football team in here, which is a good thing if you’re aiming for contemplation or even just for a little peace. Though they’re not visible in this photo, on either side of the room are candles dedicated to loved ones, furthering the atmosphere. The small windows provide nice views of the surrounding grounds. I’ve always thought that Nombre de Dios seems not to belong to the rest of St. Augustine, offering tranquility in place of touristy hustle and bustle. That’s another plus.

St. George Street

Here’s just one example of iconic colonial architecture in St. Augustine. This is what makes the town what it is . . . quaint, beautiful, channeling Europe in all the right ways. The flag is a nice touch, and really the only thing reminding you that you haven’t fallen asleep in Florida and woken up in Spain. (Except the store signs are in English, but I digress). I can’t help but wonder who gets to sit up on that balcony and watch the sunrise over the Ancient City. (And yes, I’m hopelessly jealous).

(c) 2015 St. Augustine Fridays

November 10, 2015

*** Hey all, I'll be away this Friday. Next post will be November 20. Have a great week! ***

November 06, 2015

Castillo de San Marcos

  

Let’s face it, the Castillo is awesome. Visiting a 17th century Spanish fort is cool enough, but getting to touch and examine all these ancient artillery pieces on the gun deck? That significantly ups the cool factor. Don’t you wonder where this particular cannon is pointing? Boaters? Dolphins? Colonial Englishmen? (Hey, you never know).

Fountain of Youth

I love this shot of the springhouse from a few autumns back. While the ‘youth water’ may be a little kitschy, it’s also an American icon, so come on, try a little. :-) Besides, the inside of the springhouse is full of colorful displays like this, so even if you don’t go for the whole ‘fountain of youth’ spiel, there’s still plenty to see. 

(c) 2015 St. Augustine Fridays