Hello, fellow explorers! My name is Becky, and was born with a thirst for adventure. Though I’m small, my curiosity is as big as the great Florida sky. Come along with me on a journey across the Sunshine State, where I’ll take you through sandy beaches, lighthouses, and lush parks—all from the perspective of a little one with a big dream. This will be a mini-series so check back each Wednesday for the next chapter to be released.
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Chapter 1: The Journey Begins at Amelia Lighthouse
My adventure kicked off on Amelia Island, and the first landmark that caught my attention was the Amelia Island Lighthouse. As I stood at the gate blocking the lighthouse, I couldn’t help but feel awe at the towering structure, with its bold white walls and black roof reaching toward the sky.
Built-in 1839, it is the oldest lighthouse in Florida, and its tall stature stands as a testament to the sailors it guided. I found a little patch of grass near the lighthouse where I stopped to admire the view and took in the fresh air after being stuck for hours in a car. It was a peaceful start to my adventure, I felt like I was at the beginning of something extraordinary. Unfortunately, the lighthouse is only open for a few hours on Saturdays so I wasn’t able to venture further.
Chapter 2: Fernandina Beach
After a peaceful visit to the lighthouse, I made my way to Fernandina Beach. The soft sand greeted me, and I felt it tickling my tiny legs as I walked across the shore. This was a beach like no other, with gentle waves lapping at the coast and the salty scent of the sea filling the air. But the most incredible part of my visit came when I paused to watch the dolphins.
As I stood there, looking out at the ocean, I saw them—dolphins leaping gracefully through the waves, their sleek bodies shimmering in the sunlight. It was a breathtaking sight like nothing I have ever seen before, we don’t have dolphins in Kentucky. Their playful antics filled me with joy, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder at the world around me. They were jumping and playing as if they knew I was watching. I couldn’t help but stop and admire their natural beauty as they swam by.
But there was something else that made this morning even better: a treat for breakfast. I had Nothing Bundt Cakes gluten-free bundlet. It was my first time experiencing a sweet bite of icing, we had brought it from Kentucky just to have breakfast at this beach, and it was absolutely heavenly! I nibbled on a small piece of the rich and creamy icing, savoring every morsel. It was the perfect start to my day of adventure—delicious, sweet, and satisfying.
As the dolphins continued to jump in the water and the sun shone brightly overhead, I felt incredibly content, knowing that I was in the midst of a great journey.
Chapter 3: Saint Johns River Ferry and Lighthouse
Next, I hopped on the Saint Johns River Ferry for a scenic journey across the historic St. Johns River. The ferry, though a little intimidating at first, offered a thrilling chance to glide over this ancient waterway that has flowed through Florida for thousands of years. As we cruised across, I watched pelicans resting peacefully.
Once we reached the other side, I made my way to the St. Johns River Lighthouse. Its striking red base and white tower stood boldly against the backdrop of the military base it calls home. Built-in 1858, this lighthouse is one of the oldest still standing in Florida, a sentinel of history towering over the landscape. Standing near the fence and gazing up at it, I felt so small compared to its size. How I wished I could step closer and explore its past.
Chapter 4: Fort Matanzas National Monument
Next, I found myself at Fort Matanzas National Monument, a small fortress built by the Spanish in 1742 to guard the southernmost entrance to St. Augustine. Perched on a small island surrounded by lush marshlands and calm waters, the fort’s sturdy coquina stone walls stood as a testament to resilience. From my tiny viewpoint, the structure felt massive and impenetrable, a symbol of the history it protected.
To reach the fort, I took the passenger ferry across the Matanzas River, a peaceful ride with stunning views of the surrounding marshes. Once on the island, I was struck by how seamlessly the natural beauty and historical significance blended together. However, I had to remain vigilant—rattlesnakes are known to inhabit the island, adding a bit of adventure to my exploration!
Exploring the fort felt like stepping back in time. Climbing the narrow stairs to the top, I marveled at the massive cannons, still aimed at the river below. I could almost hear the echoes of soldiers on guard and cannons firing to protect the harbor centuries ago. The interpretive signs and rangers brought the fort’s stories to life, sharing how a small garrison defended this vital outpost against looming threats.
Surrounded by the serene beauty of the coastal environment, Fort Matanzas offered a unique glimpse into Florida’s colonial history. It was a humbling and peaceful stop, where the whispers of the past lingered in the quiet breeze—and where keeping an eye out for rattlesnakes added a little extra thrill!
Chapter 5: Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse
My next stop was the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, one of the tallest and most striking lighthouses I had ever seen. Its towering red base stretched high into the brilliant blue sky, an awe-inspiring sight. I wandered through the grass near its base, feeling both small and proud as I tilted my head back to take in its full height.
Nearby, I spotted an anole basking lazily in the sun on the branch of a gnarled tree. Its tiny body shimmered in the light as it soaked in the warmth, completely unbothered by my presence.
I found the perfect spot near a rock to catch my breath and marvel at the view. This lighthouse, which has guided countless ships safely through the inlet since 1887, stood as a symbol of safety and direction for sailors navigating the waters. Watching visitors climb the spiral staircase inside, I felt a pang of envy, imagining the breathtaking view from the top. Still, my tiny legs were more than content to explore the base and the lush surroundings of this magnificent place.
Chapter 6: Hurricane Debbie
As I was leaving Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse, I noticed the sky was turning and decided to head inland. Little did I know that I was in the path of Hurricane Debbie. The rain came not as droplets but as crashing waves of destruction, the wind was howling. I was thankful to be in the car. As the storm raged on, I huddled in a corner twitching at every jolt of lighting. Hours felt like days, but eventually, the pounding rain slowed and the howling wind retreated.
When the storm finally passed, I emerged cautiously. The world was a mess- branches littered the ground, puddles the size of lakes and the air was thick with the smell of dirt and soaked grass. But I survived and was ready to be in the house! The storm did rage on for a few days, but Hurricane Debbie taught me one thing: Resilience is key no matter where we are.
Chapter 7: Circle B Bar Reserve
Circle B Bar Reserve was a serene, wildlife-filled sanctuary that welcomed me with open arms. I scampered along the boardwalks, marveling at the diverse plants and animals that called this place home. The wetlands stretched out in every direction, a mosaic of shimmering water and vibrant greenery. Overhead, birds soared gracefully, while alligators glided silently through the water. The colors of the sky and wetlands blended so harmoniously that it felt like stepping into a living painting.
As I wandered through the trails, I paused to observe a Gulf fritillary caterpillar munching contentedly on a leaf. Its bright orange and black-spiked body stood out against the green, a tiny but determined part of the reserve’s ecosystem. Nearby, a mourning dove fluttered down to gather twigs for its nest, a picture of calm persistence.
The peacefulness of the reserve gave me time to reflect on my adventure, and I paused to soak in the sounds of nature—the croak of frogs, the rustle of leaves in the breeze, and the distant call of birds echoing across the wetlands. It was a magical moment of connection with the wild, where every sight and sound felt like a gift.
Chapter 8: Lake Morton in Lakeland, FL
Onward to Lakeland, where I visited the enchanting Lake Morton. As I scurried along the water’s edge, I marveled at the hundreds of swans gliding majestically across the shimmering lake. Their graceful movements seemed to slow time, and I couldn’t help but watch in awe as they paddled peacefully, their white feathers glowing in the sunlight. There was even a few black swans gracing the lake with their appearance.
Nearby, an bunch of American white ibis caught my attention as they fed in the grass, their long, curved beak expertly searching for a meal. Its deliberate movements were mesmerizing, a reminder of how nature’s beauty can be found even in the smallest details.
I strolled along the path, admiring the reflection of trees in the calm water and the occasional ripples from ducks diving playfully. The park surrounding the lake buzzed with activity, ducks and other birds enjoying the warmth of the day. But I found myself drawn to the quieter nooks near the water’s edge, where the soft rustle of leaves and gentle splashes provided a soothing soundtrack.
It was the perfect spot to pause, reflect on my travels, and soak in the serene beauty of Florida’s natural world.
Chapter 9: Hollis Garden in Lakeland, FL
Just a short hop from Lake Morton, I found myself in the breathtaking Hollis Garden—a botanical paradise that felt like stepping into a dream. Bright flowers in every hue, towering palms, and vibrant greenery surrounded me as I wandered through the manicured pathways. Even with the light drizzle of rain, the garden seemed alive, its colors more vivid against the misty gray sky.
The gentle patter of raindrops on the leaves mingled with the soothing sound of water fountains trickling nearby. The scent of jasmine and roses filled the damp air, adding to the garden’s enchantment. I paused to admire the intricate topiaries, their carefully trimmed shapes standing proudly amidst the lush surroundings.
As I explored, a skink darted across the path, pausing just long enough to watch me with curious eyes before disappearing into the greenery. Its small presence reminded me of the hidden life within this beautiful space.
Hollis Garden was one of those rare places where time seemed to stand still. Even in the rain, I felt a sense of peace and gratitude for the chance to immerse myself in such serene beauty. The light drizzle only added to the magic, making every flower glisten like a jewel, each path felt like I was exploring an enchanted garden.
Chapter 10: Bonnet Springs
Bonnet Springs Park was a true gem, where natural beauty and modern design came together in perfect harmony. The trails wound through towering trees creating an inviting setting for my next adventure. As I wandered the park’s grounds, I marveled at how seamlessly the natural landscape blended with man-made touches like wooden bridges and carefully crafted stone paths.
One of the highlights of my visit was the butterfly garden, where vibrant monarch butterflies fluttered from flower to flower. I learned that monarchs are one of the few butterfly species capable of migrating thousands of miles, traveling all the way to Mexico for the winter—a truly amazing feat for such delicate creatures. Nearby, honey bees busily worked in their hive, a reminder of their vital role in pollination and maintaining ecosystems.
The boardwalk through the wetlands was another favorite spot. As I strolled along, a variety of birds perched on the rails, their calls blending with the sounds of the breeze rustling through the reeds. The elevated view of the lake offered a serene perspective, and I couldn’t help but pause to soak in the peaceful scene.
And then, there was the life-size treehouse—an enchanting feature that felt like something out of a storybook. Nestled among the trees, it was the perfect place to let my imagination run wild while enjoying the lush surroundings from a higher vantage point.
Bonnet Springs Park offered a day of discovery, tranquility, and fun. From the graceful monarchs to the industrious honey bees, every corner of the park reminded me of the incredible beauty and balance of nature.
Chapter 11: South Lake Howard Nature Park
South Lake Howard Nature Park was a quiet and hidden spot that offered a refreshing break from my bustling journey. The park’s tranquil lake shimmered in the sunlight, and the surrounding nature trails allowed me to explore at my own pace. I scampered along the shore, where I found small patches of wildflowers and a couple of marsh rabbits
The park was peaceful and uncrowded, making it a perfect place to recharge for the next leg of my adventure. I sat by the water for a while, watching the ripples on the lake and listening to the sounds of distant birdsong. It was a place that truly connected me with nature and I enjoyed seeing a couple of Marsh rabbits.
Chapter 12: Shopping at Walmart, Five Below, and Thrift Stores
Chapter 12: Shopping at Walmart, Five Below, and Thrift Stores
No adventure would be truly complete without a little shopping—and Florida had no shortage of fascinating places to explore! My journey led me to some of the most popular local stops, each offering its own kind of charm, excitement, and hidden treasures.
My first stop was Walmart, and let me tell you—it felt like stepping into a massive, bustling city. The shelves stretched toward the ceiling like towering skyscrapers, and the constant movement of carts and feet made it feel like rush hour in the metropolis of retail. I wandered through the aisles, taking in the rainbow of packaging, the hum of conversations, and the occasional beep of a price scanner. There was something for everyone here—rows of glittering jewelry, mountains of snacks, colorful bins of school supplies, and even a pet section with squeaky toys bigger than I could carry. I made my way to the craft aisle and admired the tiny buttons, beads, and miniature containers—each one perfectly sized for someone like me. It was like stumbling into a hidden world within a world.
Next up was Five Below, and it was a dreamland for budget-friendly fun. The air inside was filled with upbeat music and bright colors. Every shelf overflowed with cheerful items, from neon slime to squishy stress balls to quirky graphic t-shirts. I was especially drawn to the bins of miniature plush animals, some no bigger than my own head, and the racks of colorful keychains that sparkled under the lights. There was a sense of playfulness here that made me want to explore every corner. I even spotted a few travel-sized games and tiny notebooks—souvenirs just waiting to come home with me.
But the highlight of the day might have been my visit to a cozy local thrift store. The air was tinged with the comforting scent of aged books and stories long forgotten. I wandered between aisles of once-loved clothes, old records, delicate porcelain figurines, and well-worn paperbacks. Each item felt like a portal to someone else’s life—a tiny fragment of history waiting to be discovered. I paused in front of a shelf of knick-knacks: a ceramic cat with one ear chipped, a snow globe filled with glittery flakes, and a dusty picture frame that looked like it once held someone’s favorite memory. I couldn’t help but imagine the homes these objects came from and the stories they could tell if only they could speak.
By the time I left the thrift store, my tiny heart was full. This part of my adventure reminded me that joy can be found not just in grand destinations, but in the simple moments—in browsing shelves, in touching the past, and in discovering unexpected treasures. Whether brand-new or gently used, each item I saw had a story. And now, so did I.
