April 26: Marco Island

We left our campsite at about 9:00 am and arrived in Marco Island at 2:30 with a few pit stops for gas, wine, and food. I was excited to see my mentor and close friend Ralph.  As soon as we got to Ralph’s condo, he had a shrimp cocktail for us and mushrooms.  After this tasty snack, he gave us a tour of his condo complex and a guided tour of Marco Island.  It was a quaint, quiet spot — which would be great for retirees.  It was close to Naples and its endless golf courses, a YMCA with clay courts and plenty of restaurants.

Ashley took a nap while Ralph and I went out for dinner at an Italian restaurant.  The food was good although I ordered the wrong dish — cheesy gnocchi.  One guy did an awesome job singing karaoke while the over 65 crowd ate the tasty cuisine.  When we returned to Ralph’s place, we were overwhelmed by the smell of kimchi soup that Ashley made while we were gone.  Ralph quickly opened the front door and sliding glass doors to provide circulation in order to diminish the pungent odor. I don't think we'll get another invite to the condo.