Over the years we'd caught glimpses of the gorgeous lakes of Windermere, Florida, from the road or shoreline but never experienced them from their surfaces. Until today. With our friendly and knowledgeable guides Roger and Steve from Orlando Lake Tours, we ventured onto the Butler Chain of Lakes for a morning of sightseeing and nature gazing. On these waters you get an up-close look at nesting ospreys, pelicans and other noble birds as well as the sprawling homes of famous athletes and timeshare titans.
When I booked this excursion a few days ago, my kids wondered why I would cut into their free time with such an unnecessary diversion. They're singing a different tune now, of course, and can't stop talking about that wondrous eagle and all the fun they had.