If you live in the northern hemisphere, you might need a break. I know I did.
At our house, right now, it’s 15 degrees Fahrenheit (about minus 9 Celsius), with a forecast of colder temps and heavy snow in the next few days.
But that’s okay. Because I just had my mid-winter break in Florida and filled up on sun and sea, good food and beautiful sights. Even better, we had 12 days of time with family and dear friends. So, in spite of the weather outside, my inside feels warm and cozy. Maybe these photos can warm you up, too!
Florida can be annoying. Too many people are loving it to death. We all want what Florida has to give and we all want it in the same three-month period. That makes for hellish traffic, ugly strips of chain stores, and garish tackiness.
And yet . . .
Florida still retains its considerable charms.
Amazing wildlife. We didn’t see dolphins this year but we saw lots of birds! (Click on any photo for the details)
- Osprey
- Anhinga, drying its wings
- Standard Florida sight!
- Pelicans roosting for the night
- Anhinga and white pelican
- At home, in its shell
- White pelicans–they have 9 foot wingspan!
- Heron
Lots of vintage linens! I found a lot to love in the historical village on Sanibel Island and in the town of Arcadia, where there are dozens of vintage/antique shops in a two-block area.
- Mosquito nets were necessary!
- Lovely whites
- Crazy quilt
- Old flag
- Museum lace
- A special clothesline
- Museum linens
- Old treadle machine
- 1821 sampler, for sale!
Sun. Sand. Glittering turquoise water. Flowers everywhere. The beaches on the Gulf Coast, on Sanibel and Gasparilla Islands and at Longboat Key, offer miles of aimless walking, with nothing more important than looking for shells.
- Gasparilla Island
- Miles of surf
- I’ve got my toes in the water . . .
- Banyan trees
- Pocket garden
- Sun, sand, sea, AND a rainbow!
The perfect antidote to winter.