Molly and I have reached Florida, and our route south was not optimal according to Google.

• Google said drive south via Atlanta. We said not.
• Google then said drive south via I-65 including Indianapolis and Louisville. We said not (too much Atlanta traffic)
• Instead we dropped south via I-57 avoiding major cities and north/south truck routes. Google said your routes will add an hour to your driving every day. We said … who cares?! Life must be enjoyed. See routes.
• Finally, Google said take the Interstates to traverse Florida. Nope, we drove the  Nature’s Coast and found the Putnam Lodge in Cross City! Oh my, the Putnam Lodge in on the National Historic Register, having been built in 1927. The place is drop dead gorgeous, and reminds one of a different era. If you love beautiful workmanship and amazing woodwork, you need to visit this inn. Putnam’s prices are very reasonable, and you will experience part of America which is fast vanishing.

Our “non optimal” route

Putnam Lodge has 24 acres most of which are not developed and I look forward to taking a birding hike in the morning. This is Putnam’s photograph not mine, but I doubt they will mind me using it!