CAPTIVA ISLAND

Few thoughts lead me back to the kitchen when I am paddling a kayak in the middle of a paradisal sanctuary. This last week I've spent several days with my family exploring, kayaking and fishing on the glassy waters of Sanibel and Captiva Islands in Florida.

Photograph by Cayusa flickr.com

The islands are densely forested and teeming with unimaginable wildlife. Occasional sightings of sea turtles, dolphins and sea cows (manatees) can be seen in the nearby channels between the hidden mangroves. The beaches are a gold mine for seashell collectors, and bird watchers come from all over the globe to capture amazing images inside the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. This Floridian paradise has done this fisherman a world of restful good.

Later this year, "Ding Darling" will be celebrating its 20th annual bird and eco-festival during the week of October 24, 2009. The staff at this year's festival promises to give the public the best "Ding" Days ever. Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy discounted birding, kayaking, and sea life boat tours. Visit www.dingdarlingdays.com for updates on this festive event.