Monday, Darlene and I arrived at the Crystal River airport, we rented a car for the week and drove to the hotel at the marina where Lana had reserved us a room. Actually, it wasn’t just a room. We had a whole mini suite with a small kitchenette, a dining table, and a balcony overlooking the water. Even if I were out all night with the manatees, Darlene still had somewhere to sleep. We dropped our luggage off, then decided to walk the two blocks to the Society’s office.
Again, Hope was at the reception desk. She greeted both of us like long lost friends and got us in to see Lana within a few minutes.
“Ah! Joan! And Darlene! Come on in.”
I gave Lana a hug and she shook hands with Darlene as we sat before her desk.
“So, everything’s done?” I asked.
“Yes, and we still have money left over
