Historical Run with a message

It's always a great pleasure to witness the beauty of nature. When I'm out and about doing my long runs I always have the pleasure of experiencing great things. 

Here are just a few of today's 13.2 mile run. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

 Historical Virginia Key Beach Park

There are basically two beaches on Virginia Beach.  As you are coming south on the causeway you will find the main entrance to Virginia key and a second entrance maybe 2 blocks down the road. The main takes you to the beach most people know about and the mountain bike trails. 

Second Entrance

These pictures are of the second entrance. In 1945, it was the only beach "colored" were allowed to go.  In 1982 the City of Miami closed the park. In 2008 the historic black beach reopened as an landmark and with all it's amenities refurbished. The mini train once again runs, the carousel works, and the beach itself is ok. There are hot water showers with stalls and decent bathroom facilities. The beach itself is not the greatest as it is a bit rocky and grassy, and the water doesn't flow too well. It's still cleaner than hobbie (dog beach).

It is without a doubt one of my favorite routes rich in history and endless beauty. 

Peaceful sunrise

A quiet beach experience

First Entrance

This is the entrance with the big Virginia key sign. The beach itself is a little nicer than the historic black beach. It's isolated, natural, and surrounded by water. Summer is here and being able to cool off with the cross winds and tall pine tress is a plus. And if you're an explorer like myself, you'll come across really neat spots to hang out.

Beach view

Picnic tables near the beach

Mountain Bike Trail View

Crandon Park Beach

 Great beach, plenty of space and nice to walk, run, or bike. But my favorite part of this beach is the wild life. In 1948 the Crandon Park zoo was created when three monkeys, one goat, and two black bears were purchased for $270 from a small road show stranded near Miami. In 1955 - 56 the Children's Zoo begins and the Zoological Society of Florida is born. In 1965 Hurricane Betsy puts three feet of water over most of the zoo and caused most of the animals to die. Talks of a new zoo begins.

Mr Raccoon follows me to Crandon Park Zoo.

Peacocks everywhere...What beauty!

Animal Totem Message of the Day

Freedom loving, can live anywhere, rapid change, mobility, comfort in the darkness

A lonely little Hermit Crab crossing my path.