5:33 a.m.
I am really looking forward to our first day at Island Inn on Sanibel Island. We arrived last evening just after dark and were tired from our long drive. Our room was inviting and clean, I felt right at home as soon as I stepped in. Boy, is it quiet here; don’t know why I woke up. It’s still dark outside and my wife is still asleep. I guess I’m just used to getting up early.

We left the windows open while we slept. I’m glad we did, because I love breathing in that beautiful ocean air! I can just barely hear the waves breaking on the shore. It sure is a relaxing sound – maybe I’ll just lay back and listen for a few minutes …

7:50 a.m.

We woke to the sound of shore birds greeting the morning on the beach. Why is vacation sleep so much more refreshing than regular sleep? We’ve been to the beach before but this is our first time at Island Inn. Normally, on a beach vacation, this is my least favorite time of the day, because I know it’s going to take an hour or more for us to get “ready to go.” This time, we’re already here, on the beach. No busy street to walk across or long walk to prepare for. Here, there’s nothing but a stretch of sand between my door and the shore.

8:48 a.m.
We took a walk on the beach after eating breakfast. The waves make a great racket as they roll tons of shells around, making more of that beautiful Sanibel sand. We picked up a few shells but left most of them, in case anybody is counting! We’ll have to make sure to register for the guided shelling walk that guests here can attend for free. Such a great perk!

9:30 a.m.
We came back to our room to change into our swimsuits. I just noticed something – I haven’t touched my shoes since we got here! You know you’re on vacation somewhere nice when you can ignore your shoes.

11:50 a.m.
The water is great here – clear and warm but refreshing. I’m glad I put on sunblock because the sun is pretty intense. We took a nice, long walk up the beach – what a beautiful island! I had plans for the day but I’ve forgotten what they were! When you come to a place like Sanibel Island, I think forgetting your plans is way more fun than worrying about them.

1:43 p.m.

We walked back to the room for a quick lunch a little while ago. I’m glad we got the kitchen suite. It’s nice having the choice to stay here or go grab a bite at one of the restaurants here on Sanibel. Today I just feel like staying put. I think I’ll go and rent a kayak.

4:50 p.m.

Kayaking was a lot of fun – such beautiful views from off-shore. Didn’t plan on taking a nap afterward, but I found a nice shady spot with a hammock and that’s just what happened. I was holding a book, does that count?

5:33 p.m.

Drove around the island a bit, just looking around. Sat and had a drink at an outdoor bar. Such a relaxing day; I could get used to this!

Decided that we would rent bikes tomorrow and explore the island. There’s not a lot of traffic here, even on the “main” road and bike lanes/paths are literally everywhere.

7:00 p.m.

Just sat down for dinner at Traditions restaurant, which is right on the Island Inn property. Didn’t realize I was hungry until I walked in and took a deep breath … if it tastes half as good as it smells, I’ll be happy.

9:35 p.m.

OK, we’re still here at Traditions. (Dinner was fabulous!) We had some after-dinner cocktails and talked about our day today and things to do in our remaining time here on Sanibel: Ding Darling, maybe the Historical Village, the Shell Museum, shops, food, etc. Maybe I’ll call work and tell them I will be a few days longer!

10:40 p.m.

It’s late and it’s dark, but we couldn’t resist strolling down to the shore and walking the beach. The moon is out, there’s a beautiful breeze, the sand is nice and cool. Hate to go back in, but I probably shouldn’t sleep out here!

Good night, from Island Inn Sanibel. It was a great day and I’m looking forward to a few more – don’t expect to hear from me, though!