© 2006 Linda Bateman

Life Treasures Are Just One Step Away From Discovery

The panhandle of Florida has been called the "Hidden Coast", the "Last Frontier", and Florida's "Best Kept Secret" by many, for all good reasons. Most people think of Mickey Mouse, Spring Break, and the land of theme parks when the subject of Florida comes up for discussion. But the real beauty and excitement of Florida can be discovered for those who will look beneath the surface. That is what "Exploring the Real Florida" is all about! Its about stunning seashores, pristine lighthouses, and bubbling clear springs that stay cold even on the hottest of days.

There are critters galore and if you are quiet you might see a few of the elusive ones, such as the Florida deer and wild turkey. Florida even has its own water fall during the wet season. The savannas around the St Marks light house is home to numerous birds, some stay year round and others just come for the winter to enjoy the milder climate. Alligators can be seen peeping at you from under the reeds. The Chipola River is about 125 miles long and flows through the Dead Lakes to empty into the Apalachicola River which then empties into the Gulf where the pelicans and seagulls feed from dawn to dusk.

My name is Linda Bateman, and I feel privileged to live in the midst of this paradise. Whenever we find the time, my husband David, my daughter Sandra and I venture out and explore this natural wonderland, camera in hand. It is with deep satisfaction that I share these photos with you on this website and invite you to visit my gallery at DotPhoto to purchase Print Quality photos.  I hope you enjoy them!