2009-03-30 I probably could have arrived in Cedar Key last night, but I choose to stop just short and camp. I slept pretty good despite the howling (big cats?), calls and cackling (big birds?), and the constant popping (trees?). It also got cold, but the low of 35 degrees didn't hit until I was already on my bike. So this morning I peddled my way the final twenty miles to the island. I arrived too early to check in at the hotel, so I ended up eating breakfast at a cafe opposite the table from Rick, an old razor-challenged sea dog who is piloting his sailboat along the coast. I don't know anything about boats, but he makes it sound like a great experience. I wonder what a small sailboat costs? He may have left already, but if I spot him again I'll try to get a tour of his boat. The hotel room ended up being a fully furnished efficiency apartment with a good view of the ocean, costing less than just about any room I've stayed in so far in Florida. As far as actual destinations go, Cedar Key is the only place I look forward to returning to. This is my third time on this out-of-the-way island. It is everything that the other tourist hotspots in Florida aren't. The only small beach is obviously artificial, because oyster beds and small grassy islands rule. Just about everybody on the island has a fishing pole in their hand. It is a very laid back place. I have a bunch of work to catch up on, so I will be here at least the rest of the week; maybe longer.

entering Cedar Key room with a view full kitchen ftw