Florida Master Naturalist Class Underway

Yesterday was the first day of my final series of classes to complete the Florida Master Naturalist Program.   To obtain this certification three modules must be completed.  I have completed Coastal Systems, Wetlands and now working on the Uplands Module.  I know the least about the uplands and learned a lot the first day.  I am looking forward to the remaining five classes which meet all day every Saturday for five weeks.  My final project for this class will include an Uplands Plant Field Guide.  Here is a sample of plants from day 1, now I need to i.d. each plant.  I look forward to letting you know when I have officially completed this certfication.

Shell Fair Artistic

Here are some photos from the artistic area of the Shell Fair. One of my favorites was the shell mirror made of all fossil shells. The work and time that go into these crafts is amazing. My hat is off to all of the artists. WOW!

Shells From Shell Fair

The second and third photos are from a client and friend, Nancy. She found this beautiful (rare) shell on one of our trips. I personally would give it a blue ribbon. Great find and great shell Nancy!  The rest of the shells come from all over the world. I liked the Albino Collection. Time to keep looking! You never know what is just over the far horizon.

Relaxing And Exploring

I enjoyed showing Carol and Dotti the beaches on the out islands. Carol had a smile on her face the whole time.  Carol enjoyed taking pictures of the birds as well as the landscapes. Dotti enjoyed walking on a beach empty of people. Carol has been a collector of shells since she was five. Today she enjoyed collecting like she was a little kid.

RED RIBBON WINNER CAPTAIN BRIAN!

I just got home from the opening reception of the Sanibel 75th Annual Shell Fair.  I was extremely happy to win a a 2nd place red ribbon for an albino lightning whelk I entered. I will post more on the Shell Fair as it happens.