Summer Stay-cation (plus one small visitor)

Beautiful water at Bonita Beach...

Elizabeth loves anything exotic. This elephant would fit in nicely at her house as the elephant in the room.

Skinniest gorilla I ever saw!!!

Much more believable! ;)

Elizabeth was so excited to "sneak up" on this bird... which was almost the same height as she is!

Can you say this five times fast? No, I didn't think so.

 If you have access to Facebook, there are more pictures of this trip. It was loads of fun for both of us, but I think Elizabeth got more relaxation out of it than I did. Boy, does she have energy-she wore me out! Her level of motivation to hit the beach every day was higher than anyone I have ever met. We had a great five days, and now she's back with her family and I am back to school. It's always sad to say goodbye, but I am just thankful that I live in such a wonderful place that appeals to so many of my friends for vacation. I don't mind if you use me. ;)

I HAVE A [DEGREE]

 

Best friends are the best. Especially ones that come to visit without kids! (Hey, SHE said it, not me.)

 I have a tradition of going shoeless for graduation.

 

Yes, I gave him a flower. For those of you in doubt.

Art Project

This art project is due Thursday. I wanted to create a mixed media art piece... so I used a canvas with a plastic art mask, and Sculpee art clay for leaves and flowers. I used regular Valspar wall paint, gouache and water as well. I did not have an initial concept other than I just wanted to play with some different art mediums. Plus, I can use it in my house! =)

The Key to Paradise

I used to think that nothing could make the Monday blues go away (especially when I am on my way to work and there is a heavy burden of school projects left to do). As usual, the sun was shining and the birds were singing as usual, it was hot and sticky, and I was sweating before I made it down the driveway to get in my car. However, this morning was different. Once I was zooming along in my little Habanera (yes, I named my car!) I turned on the radio searching for something fresh and light to lift my spirits... and I found it! Oh yes I did! Let me tell you, one of the reasons I moved down here was because for the first time in my life, I felt like I BELONGED somewhere. Nature speaks to me and is perpetually cheerful in Florida. And every once in a while, the right song just hits me between the eyes and I feel joyful, even in the midst of the irritations of life. So, I wanted to share with you the song I heard this morning... and if you can imagine yourself riding down the highway in a little red sports car, knowing the beach is ready whenever you are, and feel the sun on your face while you listen to this song.... well THEN you will experience the satisfied moment I had this morning. Happy listening!!!

P.S.... for those of you who haven't heard it....

This is the inspiration for my blog. I know it's not particularly inspirational, but ---- there you have it. Call me in the morning........

What does one name the first post of a blog? Hi, y'all?

Greetings from south Florida. I am extremely envious of any and all who are attending the beach this weekend! Doesn't that palm tree look sublimely happy? Perhaps I was meant to be permanently planted on the beach as well. Unfortunately, I am permanently planted in a school chair until I graduate in six months. I receive my Associates degree this month (YAY!), but am surging (yes, another alliteration to the ocean) forward for my Bachelors. Alas, studying on the beach is possible but not for a technologically poor person as myself. I will someday sit on an exotic island and chat with my poor chilly friends up north, but most likely not this year! I have neither time for beaching, surfing (ANOTHER unintended hint... it must be a sign), or even blogging... so I bid you adieu until I have something new of interest to all.