Thursday, April 30, 2009

Bittersweet!

Who doesn't look forward to the day when they can retire and move to the mountains of Tennessee? A dream for many.....today, a reality for one!

The bittersweet picture to the left has been a typical one in the past, but, one we won't be seeing in the future. The friendship and connection of two men working together for 16 years is invisible to the naked eye, but strongly felt by my husband and his sales manager as they share last words at Ron's retirement party. Both agreed, they were better men 'because' of their working relationship. Now, that's a send off.
I say they are both receiving an MIT degree (Men in Transition!).....

Fortunately, our ever present caterer, Diana Bess made this transition worthwhile by serving Ron's favorite meal -- ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn on the cob, and chocolate cake. Can't let him leave hungry!
The office staff gathered with warm wishes knowing Ron would be 'missed, but not forgotten.'

What's up in them thar hills?

(Need a caterer for home event or office gathering - contact Diana at dbess1@bellsouth.net)

Irresistible!

Pink, Yellow, Turquoise, White, Black and more -- I just couldn't resist these 'perfect-for-summer' sandals when I saw them yesterday. The decision was a tough one -- which color?

The price was right, so pair for me and I may have to have three!

Ignore the feet and just check out the light weight, soft sole, no buckle, comfy sandals! and then, sit down when I tell you where I bought them and how much $$$.
Ready, Beall's Department Store, 9.99. Well, don't knock me down getting there!

Will I see you there on Senior Day :)

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

I'M FEELING WICKED!

Oh, so Wicked! and Oh, so cold! My honey was there to keep me warm and to purchase my WICKED sweatshirt for me. A Tshirt would have been fine, but not on that night. I believe they kept the A/C turned on 'cold' so they could sell sweatshirts. It worked!
I was wickedly warm.

The theatre production was fantastic and such a twist from the witches point of view. Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and lastly, the Scarecrow made only small appearances.
The crowd was very pleased, everyone seem to love it -- Me, not so much.
The sound, at times, left me wishing I had earplugs. Loved the set though and the actors did an amazing job getting their personalities and stories over to the crowd. Only a few people left after the first 1 1/2 hour set. My applause to the wonderful cast and the EMERALD CITY set designer...fantastic.!
Defying Gravity!

Red Fish, Blue Fish, Flounder and Trout!

Red Fish, Blue Fish, Flounder and Trout isn't a Dr. Seuss book - - it's the Catch of the Day when you enjoy Oldest City Fishing Guides in Mayport Beach, FL.

Yes, it's Fresh Fish, Cold Fish - who can resist? How do I get fresh fish? I go fishing!!!!!!

Captain Rob Aldridge, owner of Oldest City Fishing Charters is ready to help you cast your hooks. Rob offers half and full day charters both inshore and near short, light tackle and fly fishing trips, and plain old touring and sightseeing, if that's your choice.

Go ahead, give him a call at 904-403-6136 or find him at http://www.oldestcityfishingguides.com/.

We can swap fish stories!

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

La-TEA-Da!

Afternoons! Oh, how I love them - especially when it's Tea Time at Bistro de Leon.

Located within steps from the famous Bridge of Lions on Cathedral Place -this is a restaurant that fits into its neighborhood – Bistro de Quartier. It’s a small cozy cafĂ© in a cozy town.

When you get there, please order for me.....I'll be there in a jiffy. I'll have the Yummy Raspberry Napoleon and possibly you could try the luscious Strawberry Tart.

This scrumptously decadent afternoon is all because of Chef Jean-Stephane Poinard. The Bistro de Leon is featuring Tea Time from 2:30 – 5:00pm every Thursday thru Sunday.

And, that's not all! The French pastries served are exquisite and are baked by Poinard and his staff of French chefs. Along with the pastry menu and tea, guests can order artisan breads, tea, coffee, espresso, beer and wine. Now, do I have you?

Tea Time in St. Augustine is the perfect time to relax and take a break from whatever activities have been filling your day. Learn more about the Chef at Bistro de Leon at http://www.bistrodeleon.com.

Together, Jean-Stephane and Valerie Poinard invite their guests to ‘Enjoy the Bistro at Tea Time and live the moment with us”.

Bistro de Leon, #12 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine, Florida 32084, 904-810-2100,
http://www.bistrodeleon.com/

The Sounds Lou Parisi

The Beaches Newcomer's Club found talented Lou Parisi playing Leigh Cort's grand piano for a few of the guests. While others mingled on the verandah, music drifted out of the windows to lure everyone into the living room while Lou entertained with his easy, sophisticated style.
Sharing his time between Ponte Vedra and Ocean Grove, New Jersey, Lou's fabulous repertoire of tunes ranges from Jimmy Buffett and Andrew Lloyd Weber to Gershwin or The Beach Boys. His voice is versatile - and sexier than most of the local musicians in the NE Florida region. The Newcomers, Kathryn Hoza, and Marilyn were entranced.

Here's hoping Lou finds that the Beaches becomes his permanent home!

Sunday, April 26, 2009

REMEMBER MOM!

A great idea for Mother's Day. The Casa Marina Hotel has the best venue and most delectable variety of food items at their always popular Mother's Day Brunch. Chef Aaron Webb has been at the helm of Casa Marina's kitchen for six years, and each season inspires him to create yet another healthy and exciting variety of specialty selections.

Enjoy Mother's Day this year, on May 10 between 10A and 2P, at this historical oceanfront hotel for only $38.95 per person. Reservations, please! (904-270-0025)

Casa Marina Hotel, 691 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, Florida 32250
www.Casamarinahotel.com

For Your Dining Pleasure.....

Coaches are not just for the Ball Field....

On April 23, four FCCA coaches representing FocalPoint Business Coaching (Abby Vega), Easy Wellness Today (Lucy Buckner), Career Choices Unlimited (Marilyn Feldstein), and The Leadership Guild (Gina Maria Jerome) conducted a free “Experience Coaching” event at the Watson Realty office on Southside Blvd.

Participants in attendance got to sample different coaching styles from a variety of disciplines (Leadership, Business, Wellness, and Career) as well as understand how coaching empowers people, drives action, measures progress, and produces results! All of the women are members of the First Coast Coaches Association.

Have you explored all your dreams, ambitions, and options, that can lead to greater business success and personal and professional fulfillment? If not, our next event is being planned for June.

Call Abby Vega at 904 285-7222 to reserve your space today.

DO YOU KNOW NIA?

NIA DANCE FITNESS....... the only way to go!

If you are looking for dance, aerobics, and fitness all combined in Fun then NIA Dance Fitness fits the bill.

I've been taking NIA classes from Barbara Lutes, Certified Brown Belt NIA Instructor, for over a year now and love it. NIA is an expressive form of movement and lifestyle practice. Nia Blends Nine Movement Forms - Martial Arts: T’ai Chi, Tae Kwon Do, and Aikido. Dance Arts: Jazz Dance, Modern Dance, Duncan Dance. Healing Arts: Yoga, Alexander Technique, The Teachings of Moshe Feldenkrais.

Nia teaches you how to physically interpret and internally direct your actions and choices, and to listen to the voice of your body and allow the body to be your guide in discovering Dynamic Ease. Practiced barefoot to music, Nia is self-guided, adaptable and safe for any fitness level, from stiff beginners to highly fit athletes. Delivering cardiovascular, whole-body conditioning, Nia is based on creating a loving relationship with the body and following The Body’s Way – the innate intelligence of the body.

Barbara's classes are currently being held at the Dansations Studio at Mickler and A1A in Ponte Vedra. She will be there through May and then will be relocating to another TBA location. In the meantime, try it out -- you'll definitely like it!

You can reach Barbara at bklutes@comcast.net or call her at (904) 708-0718.

Dance like there is no one watching!!!!!

Art in the Park - Atlantic Beach

ART IN THE PARK!!!!!

Atlantic Beach is on to something! The 6th Annual Art in the Park was held last Saturday at Johansen Park in Atlantic Beach. If you missed it, you missed it!

Over 60 juried artists, dance troops (including belly dancers,) and musicians filled the park with their art, crafts, and creativity. The shading of the oak trees made it a day to bring the chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets and stay a while!

What I love about this festival is the variety of artists displaying their work. One of my favorites was local Expressionistic Artist - Sharon Westbrook. Whether you saw her first or last -- you surely remember her work. I have 3 of her paintings already in my home and I know there are more to come. Sharon's website is http://www.sharonwestbrook.com/.

Adding to the variety of artists, I met the delightful Rudell Kopp, first time author of the adorable book - 'Just Like Brothers....in the Beginning.' Rudell's goal has been to make a difference in children's lives, and has accomplished this dream by unleashing this first book and inspirational tale. Between the amazing illustrations, provided by James Lynch of Atlantic Beach, who brought the characters in the book to life visually and her charming blend of characters -- this is a must read for our children and grandchildren.

Rudell is out and about promoting her book -- you can find out where at http://www.rudellkopp-kidsbooks.net/ or rudell@aol.com.

My, last-but not least, favorite of the day was Araceli Diaz - photographer and artist. Using a fish-eye lens and a panoramic view, Araceli creates the most unique paintings of our local spots in the Jacksonville Beaches and surrounding areas. She will be at the Artistree Gallery soon and can be contacted for more information at photographyby_arachelidiaz@hot.mail.com -->


By the way, the Troupe Basheera Belly Dancers: ssredsmith@aol.com or 285-7969.

Create!

Pinkies Up!

TEA TIME!
A friend of a friend of a friend.....that's how it all started!
Pam Seibert's friend, Paula Besselink, wanted to share with us her new found interest in all natural teas, so Pam hosted a Tea Tasting.
Paula educated us on the variety of teas and their nutritional value, as we sat in the 'parlor' nibbling on radish and cucumber finger sandwiches and sipping from a nostalgic array of tea cups.
Paula said tea is loaded with antioxidants which fight cancer and aging, and tea can aid in digestion, increase metabolism and help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. The Rooibos, Hawaiian and Herbal teas are caffeine free and all of the specialty blends contain Rooibos, which has a much higher antioxidant content than green tea! If you like your tea sweetened, our “Best of the Bees” honey is for you.
Most of us were already tea lovers and now we are convinced of the benefit along with the enjoyment. I have to admit, I have advanced from microwaving a tea bag in a cup of water to the more natural and tasty loose leaf teas seeped in the Magic Tea Maker, all available through Paula's company, LifeTea. http://www.paulaslifetea.com/.
Yet another great reason to get together with friends and new acquaintances. More information on the tea can be found on her website or email Paula at info@paulaslifetea.com.
Pinkies Up!

Not My Aunt Kate!

She might not be my Aunt Kate, but I'm visiting her frequently! Aunt Kate's is a new restaurant on the intracoastal waterway in Vilano Beach.

Local beach residents may remember Oscar's Old Florida Grill that burned down a while back. Aunt Kate's was built right on the same spot. Built in a 'cracker' style -- it has a charm all of its own.

On Friday night, the crowd had already gathered and our wait was 50 minutes for outside and 40 for inside. With the no-see-um's beginning to buzz around, we decided to eat indoors. We didn't mind the wait though, because our timing was perfect. We strolled along the deck, boardwalk, and pier capturing this most beautiful sunset.

Aunt Kate's provides a wonderful new venue for diners. Open only 6 1/2 weeks, they are onto something grand. With good food, live music on the veranda, wicker seating scattered around the front and side porches, a friendly staff, and the ambiance and scenery to beat all, it's a 'not-to-be-missed' spot for our dining choices.

Just head south on A1A until you pass Cap's and see The Reef on your left -- immediately on the right is Euclid Avenue - turn right and go to the end. You'll see Aunt Kate's, proudly outlined in the sky!
Hungry?

JEWELRY IS A GIRLS BEST FRIEND!



I might have missed the 7th ANNUAL ARTISAN JEWELRY TRUNK SHOW and Opening Night Reception on 4/17 at Eclectic Galleries in Jacksonville Beach, but I didn't miss checking it out last week on a lone shopping spree!

Six new jewelry studios were introduced, and expanded collections from the gallery’s current designers were also featured. As usual, Debbie Suchy, the owner of Eclectic Galleries, brings us the most unique and creative designers and artists from all over the country to enjoy.

If you haven't made it by yet, she is open everyday for you to browse and dream. I couldn't leave without placing a few items on my Wish List -- after all, Mother's Day is coming!

Be sure to visit Debbie at Eclectic Galleries at 2405 3rd Street South, Jacksonville Beach, FL or call her at 904-247-3750. You may also visit her website..... http://www.eclecticgalleries.com/

Crazy Fish Kayaking

The wind didn't blow this day away and it was Ships Ahoy at 10AM at Crazy Fish Kayak last Friday.

A group of 12 women, including me, from the Beaches Newcomers Club, slathered with sunblock and prepared with bottled water and sun visors, took to their kayaks and 'headed upstream with their paddles.' A gloriously warm April day in Jax Beach and the calmly rippling waters of the intracoastal were all we needed to continue our adventure.

Crazy Fish Kayak is located on the backside of the marina on Beach Boulevard (before crossing the bridge and across the waterway from Billy's Boat House) in the old marine patrol building at 2510 2nd Avenue North. Josh Schrutt is the owner of the business. Crazy Fish is about food and watersports and besides the hot menu there's Italian Ice and gelato, snacks, and beer and wine. Josh also has many subcontractors who will teach water sports of all types, will do fishing charters, and he sells limited gear such as life vests. It's a little hard to find, but worth it when you get there.

Josh had our colorful kayaks laid out and ready for us when we arrived. After selecting the color and style of our kayak, we loaded our day's necessities into the 'dry storage bin,' and carefully stepped aboard. Slowly, Josh nudged each of us into the awaiting waters of the intracoastal. With our paddles in hand, we quickly found our balance and the paddling began.

With the tide as our timekeeper and Maureen and Marie as our guides, we began paddling under the bridge and around the wetlands within a mile from the marina. With many of us first-timers, we stayed close to home this time -- but once we embarked, we entered another world of calm and relaxation. Going with the flow, we alternated paddling to keep up with the group and then relaxing and letting the tide take us along the marshes and into the homes of the birds, snakes, and alligators. (ok - we only saw birds this time)
The time went by quickly and as the current turned against us, we headed back to safe harbor, a little tired and a lot hungry. Fortunately, there was a table with an umbrella to shield us from the sun as we enjoyed the fresh catch of the day in the little restaurant at Crazy Fish as we overlooked the quiet marina.
We all agreed, it was the perfect end to a perfect day!
Bon Voyage - til next time!
(Side note: our fearless guides Maureen and Marie are now working at Crazy Fish doing guided tours!)

Thursday, April 23, 2009

TRULY CLASS ESTATE SALE!

A little heads-up to those shoppers and estate sale individuals out there!!!!!

A little birdie told me that this estate sale, listed on craigslist.com and being held in Ponte Vedra, is going to be awesome. Check it out!

http://jacksonville.craigslist.org/gms/1136726035.html

An Awesome Deal!


VERO BEACH

Last year, Frank and I enjoyed this new boutique hotel in Vero Beach. What an awesome experience and so close to home! It is the new hotel of Gloria Estefan's, with great shopping and restaurants right across the street.


Here is the view from the pool with the ocean just a dive away! Also, yea, that's my hunk of a husband!




The surf and shore mingle with style and sophistication awaiting you for the most exquisite beachfront getaway. We swam in the pool while we looked out into the ocean just steps away. Nothing like it!

Check out the special package they are offering! Shall we join you?

It is soooo worth it! Will we see you there?

877-562-9919 costadeste.com
3244 OCEAN DRIVE VERO BEACH, FLORIDA .




Wednesday, April 22, 2009

NOT FOR ADULTS ONLY!

Yesterday, I learned something new about Authors and Book Signings. They aren't for adults only!

We were invited by our grandkids to join them at a book signing at the Town's Center Barnes & Noble by their favorite author -- Mary Pope Osbourne!


With their books in hand and smiles of excitement on their faces, they were herded around the aisles, around the service desk, out the doors, down the street, around the corner, and finally to the end of the line to wait their turn with their number safely around their wrist. After 2 1/2 hours of anticipation, they were finally next in line!

As they approached Mary for their photo and signing, she glanced down at them and exclaimed, 'Oh my goodness, it's little Jack and Annie!" Jack and Annie are the characters from her book who are a brother and sister and a year and half apart, just like our grandchildren, Alex and Savannah! Together, they go on adventures in a magic treehouse. How interesting!


With Magic Treehouse in hand, and everyone happy, they knew the wait had been worth it. What a momentous occasion for these 500+ young readers. Now, they await the upcoming musical and curl up to read their new books.


To see all of Mary Pope Osbourne's books and upcoming events, visit her website at http://www.marypopeosborne.com/.


Keep Reading Little Ones!

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

DID YOU SAY FRENCH KISS?

Where else can you discuss sleeping with movie stars, blondes, French kissing, and Italian for beginners than at the Ponte Vedra Book Talk Cafe.

On Monday, April 19, Vic DiGenti, the regional director of the Florida Writers Association and president of the Friends of the Library–Ponte Vedra Beach, introduced us to - Author Kristin Harmel.

Kristin, barely visible above the podium at a petite height of 5', delighted us with her enthusiastic presentation. Kristin's genuine love of writing was obvious as well as her desire to share her world, her stories, her joys, and her challenges as she has grown and matured in her writing and in her style.

By the time Kristin graduated suma cum laude from our very own University of Florida, she had written her first book, and knew she was living her passion. With a love of travel, a vibrant personality, and an upbeat outlook on life, her readers are in for many delightful stories now and in the coming years.

Kristin's books appeal to the 20, 30, and 40 year old female and, therefore, are considered 'Chick-Lit.' However, I think they're the perfect 'beach read' and I'm over 40! Ladies, since when is 'Chick-Lit' a negative thing anyway, right?

As you read Kristin's novels, you'll enjoy international travel with her lead characters sharing with you -- 'How to Sleep With a Movie Star,' 'The Blond Theory,' 'The Art of French Kissing,' and coming soon, 'Italian for Beginners.' (all carrying disclaimers as the intriguing titles can be misleading!)

Kristin doesn't leave out the young adult readers either. Check out her website for all of her books and scheduled events at www.kristinharmel.com.

Now, if only my daughter will share the two books I purchased for her!!!!! Hmmmm?

Gotta go!

Sites: Vic DiGenti @ http://www.windrusher.com/
Ponte Vedra Friends of the Library: http://www.friendspvlibrary.org/

DRUM BEAT

Do you march to the beat of a different drum? I've been told I do!

And yesterday, by participating in the Drumming Class at the Players Championship Senior Center, I was proud of it!

Dean Slickis, Music Educator at OM Studios in St. Augustine, shares his knowledge and music background on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at the center. So, with my bongos in hand and an uncertain curiousity, I joined the group already gathering on the outside patio.

Dean showed us a basic drum beat and before we knew it, we were drumming in unison and loving it. Even the birds chirped along with our sound.

We had a combination of drums and musical instruments alllowing everyone to particpate. Dean accompanied us on his native american flute and the frame drum while we made music with our bongos, djambes, shakers, and a variety of frame or 'Tar' drums. The Tai Chi group shared in the moment, by having their lesson on the patio too, with their music and our drum beat filling the air.

The repetitive and constant Boom ..... Boom, Boom ..... Boom......Boom, Boom cleared my mind and relaxed my body as I focused on the beat. No wonder this is a healing and a healthy outlet for our hearts and minds. Join us and find out more about drumming at www.remo.com/health and www.ubdrumcircles.com or you may contact Dean directly at dean.slickis@gmail.com.

Keep Marching To Your Own Drum Beat!

Saturday, April 18, 2009

Purple Olive Restaurant - St. Augustine, FL


RESERVATIONS, PLEASE!

You say toe-mah-toe, I say toe-ma-toe. You say po-tah-toe, I say po-ta-toe; you say creative dining - I say 'Purple Olive.'

An invitation from our friends to dine prior to the Joe Cocker concert on Friday sounded like a great idea. Leaving the restaurant choice to our friends from St. Augustine, we merely followed their directions south to 4255 A1A and then right into the Seaside Plaza. Our destination restaurant - The Purple Olive International Bistro.



We sauntered into the bistro hoping for a quick meal and then a dash to the concert. What we experienced was far from a quick meal, but a perfect meal, it was!




The Purple Olive International Bistro immediately transported us from the usual beachy-quaint to this charming bistro in just moments. Not knowing a thing about the bistro - we glanced around enjoying the bursts of purple in the tablecloths, napkins, and wall paint. When seated, we viewed the array of local art and art glass displayed to feast our eyes upon as we prepared for the feast to our palates.



The staff was aware of our sense of urgency, yet in no way compromised our service or dining pleasure. We were served quickly and were delighted with our selections -- seafood marinara, seafood bisque with just the right amount of 'bite,' a caesar salad like no other, and a few other delectable treats suggested by our waitress,Tara. In a way, we were sorry we had to dash off, but knew we would be back. Do yourself a favor and check out their website for their unique story and then hurry on by to treat yourself to this local bistro. http://www.purple-olive.com/index.htm

Our compliments to the chef!

Joe Cocker


I'll go on record saying, "I didn't see him at Woodstock in '69, and I didn't see him at the 'Mad Dogs and Countrymen Tour' in '70; but I saw him Friday night - April 17 at Florida's premier venue - The St. Augustine Amphitheater, in St. Augustine, Florida where JOE COCKER did it right!"
Can you remember where you were in 1970 when Joe Cocker's hit song,'The Letter' became his first U.S. top hit; or, when again in 1975, he hit the U.S. Top Ten with 'You Are So Beautiful To Me?'
I, for one, was barefoot and pregnant, making my contributions to the male population of the early 70's. I followed his songs on the radio while nursing babies and changing diapers. What I lacked in 'real face-time' at the concerts in the 70's, I made up for on Friday night, right here in St. Augustine, Florida. Instead of rocking babies, I was rockin' in the house' as I screamed, danced, and rocked with the crowds, letting Mr. Cocker take me back to the day when rock and roll was here to stay!
The house was packed with all ages, but the balance leaned heavy on the real fans from the over 40 crowd. The crowd that grew up with Joe Cocker and through thick and thin, they remained true to him and to his sound. On Friday night, Joe Cocker remained true to his fans and his reputation. His raspy voice laid it all out for us in a 1 1/2 hour concert and 3 encores. At the end, we were all content and fired up - remembering the songs that brought us to where we are today. He made us all feel like we were all ......'Up Where We Belong.'
Hats off to the St. Augustine Amphitheater for providing the Florida Coast with such a superb covered venue, where we can enjoy all the artists, come rain or come shine. (http://www.staugamphitheatre.com).
So, with 'A Little Help From My Friends,' I'll see you next time.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Always Have Plan B



Kayaking........the plan for the day.

I was ready and rarin' to go on my maiden kayaking voyage today with a group of women from the Beaches Newcomer's Club when I received the dreaded call. The winds! What is it with me and Mother Nature this month? Her winds have blown all of my outdoor adventures right out the window, leaving me with my backpack loaded and my enthusiasm unloaded.
This calls for a Plan B to be a necessary element for my plans from here on out. Plan B needs to be easy, flexible, and attainable in a moments notice. So here are some ideas - Pay those bills that have been stacking up, wash the car, clean the house, answer your emails, and so on and so on! NO! Please, let Plan B have at least some adventure to it. Okay, let's try again. Walk to the beach, walk on the beach, take a bike ride, take a road trip, get a massage, or get a mani and a pedi. Even better, walk outside and enjoy your garden, your neighbors garden or your backyard and / or pool. Sit and mediate on your good fortune and be thankful we have this day. How about planning your next trip. Kayaking next Friday when the weather is improved!

Whatever it is that we select -- we know that a Plan B is important, especially in Florida where the weather can change drastically. Try being out on a boat when one of those dark clouds appears out of no where - now, that isn't fun at all.

Next week, I hope to have a great story about my kayaking adventure. Until then, keep a plan!

FreeTherapy4You


A 'Free Therapy 4 You' Picture of the Day
Remember, today is just temporary -- Live it!

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Cruisin' The Beaches


Me thinks we go too far sometimes to get-away from it all........when clearly 'free therapy' is just around the corner!

Today, with my convertible top down and my sun visor shading my face, I took off north on A1A from Ponte Vedra Beach until it deadended in Atlantic Beach. Just a meer 20 minute journey and here I was ocean-central. An immediate 'beach right' and a parking place up front delivered me across the street from our majestic ocean and right in front of Shelby's Coffee House. The decision to either shop or dine was clear -- I stopped to munch. It couldn't get much better than Shelby's Grecian Salad with that wonderful flavored tea, an umbrella table outside, the beaches newspaper, the soft-blowing breeze, and me. No need to travel far -- no need for reservations -- no need to plan ahead. Right here in our own little beach community -- friends and businesses await!

As I enjoyed the view from my table, I couldn't help but peer into the window of the little shop across the courtyard from my table -- Boutique Unique! Adorable name and charming shop. Perfect place to stroll after such a delightful lunch. Kae and her daughter Julie were busy stocking the racks with all the new summer outfits. (I have one on right now as I couldn't resist the Blow-Out Sale!) The boutique, in addition to their regular resort/beachy clothes, now carries the Jams label and loads of Fresh Produce (not the fruit), along with the most original hand-painted jackets and sweaters, the perfect weight for our cooler nights and breezy days.

Today.........what a most pleasant afternoon delight! Would you care to join me next time? Call me!

Until then......

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Trivia Night At Billy's Boat House

The Cruisin' Cocktails team was at it again last night at Billy's Trivia Night!
Do you know how much money you start with in a monopoly game? I did!!!! $1500.00. It didn't help us win though, but we came in 6th. Not bad for 6 of us against a typical table of 10. How about the first time DeNiro and Pacino were in a scene together? Heat. . . . .Now you know!

We had a blast as we watched the pouring rain and winds from the windows overlooking the marina at Billy's. Perfect night to be out, but in! Can't beat the food - I had the best Teriyaki Chicken Salad that I've had anywhere. No complaints at that table for sure -- and our waitress, Jessica, treated us with kidd gloves keeping us settled and happy so we could focus on the game.

Oh, by the way ......... What profession was Elaine's dad on the Seinfeld series???? -- an author.

Now....shall we see you next week?