Cedar Key is a very small island 50 miles southwest of Gainesville, Florida, on Florida’s Gulf coast. We’ve been visiting for years and usually stay at the same place, the Old Fenimore Inn. This photo is the view at dusk, from our third floor balcony.
This is our first time back in two years and the economy has taken its toll – some of the shops and restaurants have folded, there are fewer tourists, the town is nearly deserted during the week. Our favorite coffee shop is now a lawyer’s office.
During a walk this past weekend, we talked about moving here, as we have done before. We usually look at property here, and this trip was no exception. But we never quite make the leap. So on this walk, we suddenly hear the loud barking of a dog that sounded as familiar as an old friend’s voice. “Hey, that sounds like Bart. Remember that dog?” Rob exclaimed.
“Where are you from?” we asked.
“The West Palm Beach area,” the man replies.
Okay. Why not Tampa? Or Tallahassee? Because it’s apparently going to be a synchro day. “That’s where we’re from. We live in Wellington.”
The man’s eyes widen. “That’s where we lived!”
It turns out they lived less than two miles from us.
Small world. And maybe a hint that Cedar Key might be in our future, as a place of residence – at least part-time.
(that’s Joe, ducking into the store)
Another view of Kona’s and the main street through town.
Thanks or the udpate, Jay, in what's happening in Cedar Key. We're hoping to get up there later this summer or in the fall.
Love the blog, just discovered it. There are over 6 new businesses that have opened in Cedar Key or will open within the next two weeks, with more on the way. All of these during this over-hyped recession and this BP disaster. The true meaning of recession is just an adjustment of what people feel they really need, thinking about which things in life are most important, and determining those things they can discard and never miss. All of these people have gone through that process and settled right here, in Cedar Key, for exactly the reasons you wrote about. There is no oil slick here; there is no hustle and bustle here; there is no crime here; there is unparalleled beauty here; there are people walking dogs without leashes here and dining outside with them; and countless happy people who would love to show you a way of life long forgotten. You owe it to yourself to get out here; the drive alone will relax you and once you get here, priceless.
Hilton – you'll love Cedar Key.
Nice post and pictures. Have been intending to get up there a take some pictures myself. You've inspired me to make an extra effort to do so. I understand the Inn there has a good Thanksgiving Day dinner. May try that, if not this year, then next.
I like that, Vanessa. Setting the intention. OK, set.
It looks perfect. I really like small towns on the coast. What could be better?
oh, gee, beautiful vacation/home/anything place – reminds me of the little beach towns here – and what a story! live so close and not know each other and then go on vacation and there you all are! great post!
I love the Gulf Coast and dream of moving to Tallahassee (even though it's not right on the coast). Not to dis the Atlantic, but the Gulf is just gorgeous. I think you guys should go for it. Set the intention. 🙂