Spaceships and Dampers

H.B. Plant 1891, Tampa Bay Luxury Hotel, now University of Tampa

Florida is big, no doubt about it. From the southern most point to the panhandle and St Augustine there is everything in the middle, like Tampa and St Pete's.

Pass-A-Grille St Pete's Beach

We spent some time in the Tampa and St Pete's area to visit some friends and get some city hospitality before venturing off into the wilderness. We landed at Hillsborough River State Park. I tell you, yeah, we sure did enjoy this slow pace back woods park with its lazy river and some nice single track bicycle trails- Fort King Trail, Wetlands Trail, Dead River County Park Trail. Gators, birds, turtles, white tail deer, class 2 rapids, Wild Orange and Clementine trees are all there. Of course, Trixie's "fav" the meandering Armadillos made their nightly appearance.

Lazy Hillsborough River

The weather has been great with 80 temps during the day and mid to low 60's at night. Our roof top tent has caused some stir among the natives! We hear comments, "is that a spaceship" or "nice turtleshell?" "That's cute." " I bet I could make one just like it out of PVC," Larry, our neighboring camper announced. ... I figure we will hear a lot more engaging wit as we wander the trails.

Making camp is always a crucial project for me. Getting the rig on level ground, pointed in the right direction to catch the morning light and making sure everything sets up for a comfortable yet functional base camp is all-important. Being at one campsite for 6 nights, planning meals and libation rations can be tricky.... we are doing just fine!

Suspension Bridge over river

Wild Clementines

On this leg of our journey I'm getting my Dutch Oven chops on. This cast iron covered pot is the most versatile cookware of any kitt. When used properly you can achieve unlimited possibilities with good ingredients or whatever is in your kitt besides the motor oil. My first attempt at a Damper, also known as Australian Bush Bread, simple enough. My version was a Mission fig, walnut and pineapple Damper made with coconut milk. With some tweaking of cooking times and ingredient ratios it should soon be a hit. Savory selections are also on the horizon.