I'm Back

After three weeks of being out of commission, my Etsy shop is finally back open for business. I must say, as much as I love going away, it does feel good to be back to the ‘ol routine ~ or most of it, anyway. For part of those three weeks, I was down in sunny Florida visiting my brother, who lives in Orlando. You’re probably wondering if my trip included a stop at Disneyworld. Not this time. Trust me, after being on a plane filled with families headed for the magical place, I'm almost convinced it's a mortal sin to go there and not spend at least one day with Mickey Mouse. Oh well, guess that means I'm hellbound for sure. Back in 2003, we visited all of the Disney parks, and it was a super great time. But somehow the thought of hanging at WDW on a stifling hot, 99 degree and humid day did not sound like a ball of fun to any of us. So, here’s some of what we did instead:

Got up close and personal with tons of alligators at "Gatorland". Who needs a mouse when you can hang with these guys?! It was waaaay cool!! Ate some of the most amazing food, including Cuban cuisine at the historic Columbia restaurant in Tampa's Ybor City neighborhood. This place has been in business for over 100 years, when it began serving cafe con leche to the Cuban immigrants who worked in nearby cigar factories. Today it is still operated by the same family and is absolutely outstanding.

With all of that heat, frequent stops for refreshments was a necessity :)

Watched the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Washington Nationals at Tropicana Field. That's one of their stars, Evan Longoria. What a hottie!

Sunned ourselves in the crystal clear water and white sand of Clearwater Beach. Aaaaahhhh . . .

Climbed 200+ winding steps to the top of the St. Augustine lighthouse. The view of America's Oldest City from that vantage point was breathtaking, and well worth the climb!

While in St. Augustine, we visited Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish fort that was built over 300 years ago. Now that's some history for you!

Whether you're planning a vacation, a playcation, or a staycation, I wish you safe and happy travels!