Full Time Nomads in Florida: Pensacola (Part Three)

Pensacola, Florida has some of the most breathtaking beaches complete with pristine white sands and shimmering emerald waters. Join me on a journey as I unveil some of our cherished beach spots.Whether you're after peaceful seclusion, exciting water activities, or bustling beachfront scenes, Pensacola offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Retreat to Big Lagoon State Park

We cherished our two-week retreat at Big Lagoon State Park. Its rustic campground, complete with water and electric hookups, offered us a serene escape where we could reconnect with life's simplicity and marvel at God's creation. Surrounded by boardwalk trails winding through lush landscapes, each step was a testament to His boundless creativity.

Big Lagoon is a must-visit destination, even for day visitors. Exploring the trails, which span over Intercoastal waterways, reminded us of God's sovereignty over all creation. During our first visit, we encountered a gator, an unforgettable moment when my son fed a deceased turtle to it from a bridge using a fishing pole. Though we've returned, the gator remains elusive.

Whether launching kayaks or casting lines for redfish, flounder, or speckled trout, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy this park. I am reminded of the blessing it is to explore alongside my family.

Despite the challenges posed by natural disasters, like parts of the park closing after a recent hurricane, our return this year showcased God's restoration and provision. Exploring reopened areas with friends highlighted the resilience of His creation and the strength found in community during adversity.

What better way to honor God's blessings than through fellowship and shared meals? When my parents flew out to visit, we knew they had to experience the sandwiches from a nearby Publix and join us for a tranquil picnic amidst the awe-inspiring views that only this sacred place can provide.

National Seashore

In my view, Pensacola's most stunning beaches lie within the National Seashore. As a friend once remarked, you haven't truly experienced white sand until you've heard it squeak beneath your feet. The sand along the National Seashore is the squeakiest I've ever encountered.

1. Fort Pickens:

• Fort Pickens Beach is located near the historic Fort Pickens, which dates back to the 19th century.
• Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its role in American history.
• The beach offers excellent opportunities for swimming, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

2. Johnson Beach:

• Located on Perdido Key, Johnson Beach is known for its pristine white sands and clear Gulf waters.
• It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, birdwatching, and picnicking.
• The beach is named after a 19th-century fisherman, Rosamond Johnson Jr., who built a homestead nearby.

3.Perdido Key Beach:

• Perdido Key Beach boasts miles of sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
• It's a nesting ground for endangered sea turtles, and visitors may have the opportunity to see these majestic creatures during nesting season (May through October).

Pensacola Beach

If you are looking for a mixture of beauty and entertainment, Pensacola Beach is the perfect place to visit.

• Water Activities: Pensacola Beach offers a range of water sports like swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. Fishing is popular too, whether casting from shore or booking a charter for deep-sea excursions.

• Pensacola Beach Pier: Stretching 1,471 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, the Pensacola Beach Pier is a hotspot for fishing and sightseeing. 

• Boardwalk and Entertainment: The Pensacola Beach Boardwalk buzzes with shops, restaurants, and entertainment spots, creating a lively atmosphere. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, enjoying fresh seafood, shopping for souvenirs, or catching live music.

• Events and Festivals: Pensacola Beach hosts various events and festivals year-round, such as the Pensacola Beach Air Show, Bands on the Beach concerts, and the Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival.

Good Eats

1. Bear Fruit Bowls and Coffee- A family owned business with build your own acaii bowls.

2. Peg Leg Petes- Waterfront location known for its family friendly atmosphere, seafood, and views.

3. Whiskey Joes- Located on the Intercoastal waterway, it offers great food, views, and a casual fun atmosphere.

Overall Experience

Pensacola has become our go-to destination, drawing us back time and again. Nestled along Florida's panhandle near the Alabama border, it exudes a charming blend of southern hospitality and stunning Gulf Coast beaches. Unlike the hustle and bustle of southern Florida, Pensacola has a more laid-back vibe, slightly cooler temperatures, and a diverse landscape featuring lush forests, winding rivers, and picturesque bayous.

When my parents were able to fly out for my daughter's birthday, we were thrilled to have them join us. It was a special opportunity to show them around and create cherished memories together. 

While being apart from loved ones can be challenging, these reunions are truly precious moments to be cherished. I'm grateful for the modern conveniences of technology, air travel, and interconnected highways that make it possible for us to come together despite the distance.

Bible Verse

Genesis 2:24 (NIV): 

"That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh."

Reflections

• Living apart from our parents, siblings, and grandparents has brought both challenges and blessings into our lives. While there are times when we deeply miss the presence and support of our extended family, being on our own has allowed us to flourish in unexpected ways.

• Our family unit has grown stronger as we've learned to rely on God with each other and create our own sense of home and belonging. We've discovered newfound independence and resilience as we navigate life's ups and downs together.

• Despite the distance, the joy of reuniting with our extended family is always a cherished moment. Each visit becomes a special occasion, filled with laughter, love, and shared memories. The time spent together feels even more precious, and we cherish every moment of connection and togetherness.

• While we may be physically separated from our extended family, the bonds of family remain strong. Distance has taught us to treasure the moments we have together and appreciate the love and support that transcends any distance. In the end, our family is one of our greatest sources of joy and strength, no matter where life may take us.

We must ask ourselves

1. Do I prioritize the well-being and needs of my spouse and children over those of my extended family?


2. Have I intentionally assessed and selected family traditions to uphold with my spouse, ensuring they align with biblical principles rather than adhering to them out of mere habit or familial obligation?


3. Am I succumbing to the temptation of people-pleasing, prioritizing the expectations of my family over God's expectations for me?


4. Are my spouse or children experiencing negative consequences because I struggle to assert boundaries and say no when necessary?

Navigating these questions can be challenging because we often blur the lines between our devotion to God and our family, and we're hesitant to cause any pain to our loved ones. However, prioritizing our immediate family and aligning with biblical principles doesn't diminish our love for our extended family. Instead, it signifies our obedience to God's guidance, trusting that He understands how to navigate relationships most effectively.

I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below.

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