Life on Paws and Wheels

Simba and I visited The Hampton Springs Hotel Ruins in Perry, Florida — the remains of a once-famous mineral springs resort that drew visitors to Taylor County in the early 1900s. Today, the peaceful wooded property feels worlds away from its glamorous past, but scattered throughout the site are reminders of what was once one of Florida's most impressive resort destinations. From mineral springs and gardens to ballrooms and golf courses, Hampton Springs was far more than a hotel—it was a thriving resort built around the healing reputation of its natural spring waters. Walking through the ruins today offers a fascinating glimpse into a forgotten chapter of Florida history. 🏨 A Grand Resort Built Around Healing Springs The original Hampton Springs Hotel was constructed in 1908 and quickly became a popular destination for travelers seeking the health benefits associated with the area's sulphur springs and mineral waters. Visitors believed the spring water possessed medicinal qual...

Simba and I visited Fanning Springs State Park in Fanning Springs, Florida — a beautiful natural spring along the famous Suwannee River. Known for its crystal-clear blue-green water, shaded natural surroundings, and peaceful connection to the Suwannee River, Fanning Springs is one of Florida's most beloved spring destinations. The combination of spring-fed water, scenic boardwalks, and abundant wildlife makes it a wonderful place to experience the natural beauty of Florida's Nature Coast. Whether you're swimming, exploring the trails, or simply enjoying the scenery, Fanning Springs offers a relaxing outdoor escape. 💧 A Spring That Flows Year-Round One of the most remarkable features of Fanning Springs is its constant water temperature. The spring remains around 72 degrees throughout the year, making it a popular destination during every season. Visitors come to enjoy: - Swimming in the spring basin - Snorkeling in the clear water - Wildlife observation - Relaxing along the...

Simba and I visited and hiked the AJ Henry Park Loop in Tallahassee, Florida — a peaceful neighborhood nature trail tucked inside A.J. Henry Park in the Killearn area. Covering more than 70 acres, the park offers a quiet escape from the surrounding neighborhoods with wooded trails, lake views, natural scenery, and a small boardwalk section. It's one of those local hidden gems that feels surprisingly secluded despite being located within the city. Whether you're looking for an easy hike, a relaxing walk, or a place to enjoy nature, AJ Henry Park provides a wonderful opportunity to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. 🌲 Exploring the Trail System The trail network at AJ Henry Park is made up of several connected loops that wind through natural areas and around portions of the park. As we explored with Simba, we enjoyed: - Shaded wooded trails - Natural Florida scenery - Gentle terrain and easy walking - Quiet sections away from traffic and noise The well-maintained paths make the p...

Simba and I visited the Library Oak Tree Fort Sculpture in Tallahassee, Florida — a creative public art piece carved from a beloved old live oak tree at the Leon County Main Library. What could have been the end of the tree's story became the beginning of something entirely new. After the aging oak had to be removed for safety reasons, local sculptor John Birch transformed portions of the tree into a whimsical work of art that celebrates reading, imagination, and childhood adventure. Today, the sculpture stands as one of Tallahassee's most unique hidden gems and a wonderful example of how art can preserve history in unexpected ways. 🌳 Giving New Life to a Beloved Tree For many years, the massive live oak was a familiar part of the library grounds. When the tree could no longer be safely preserved, the community chose not to simply remove it and move on. Instead, portions of the tree were transformed into a lasting tribute that continues to inspire visitors. The result is a scu...

I visited the Grave of Elizabeth "Bessie" Budd-Graham in Tallahassee, Florida — one of the most mysterious and talked-about graves in the state. Located in Tallahassee's historic Old City Cemetery, the elaborate monument marking Bessie's grave has inspired local legends, ghost stories, and speculation for more than a century. Known by many as "The Witch's Grave," the site has become a destination for history enthusiasts, folklore fans, and curious travelers searching for one of Florida's most enduring mysteries. While the legends continue to grow, the real story behind the monument is every bit as fascinating. 🪦 Who Was Elizabeth "Bessie" Budd-Graham? Elizabeth "Bessie" Budd-Graham died in 1889 at just 23 years old, leaving behind a husband and two young children. Although her life was tragically short, her final resting place became one of the most recognizable graves in Florida thanks to an unusually large and ornate Victorian-...

Simba and I visited the Sod Cemetery in Tallahassee, Florida — one of the most unusual and legendary traditions in college football. Located at Florida State University, the Sod Cemetery commemorates major Seminoles football victories by burying pieces of turf taken from opponent fields after important road wins, bowl games, championship games, and rivalry matchups. What began as a simple gesture after a memorable victory eventually grew into one of the most distinctive traditions in all of college sports. Today, the Sod Cemetery serves as both a tribute to Florida State football history and a symbol of the pride, determination, and tradition that define the Seminoles program. 🌱 The Origin of the Sod Cemetery The tradition began in 1962 after Florida State defeated Georgia on the road in a hard-fought game. Following the victory, team captain Gene McDowell reportedly brought back a piece of sod from the Georgia field. The turf was buried on campus to commemorate the significance of th...