SWFL JOURNAL
Sunday
Barbecue grills on Northern patios are sizzling the last of their steaks this Labor Day. Here? Not so much. Our grills are just getting warmed up.
Tuesday
After a little burst of holiday activity, things have settled back into the dog-days doldrums. We may complain it’s too quiet sometimes, but secretly we are in heaven.
Thursday
Seriously, I drove out to Periwinkle, I looked left, I looked right—I saw not another soul.
Saturday
It seems like a good laid-back time for some out-island exploring. When was the last time we hit Cayo Costa? It will be just us and the shells.
Wednesday
B and G said let’s go out to eat next weekend … in Miami. The city hosts Miami Spice at this time of year, highlighting its local restaurants. Signature dishes at reduced prices—sounds good.
Sunday
Long trip across the Alley and back, but well worth that scrumptious ropa vieja. Oh, and the guava cheesecake was pretty good, too.
Monday
Still thinking about my stroll around the Wynwood Art District yesterday. I’ve wanted to do that for so long—and it lived up to expectations.
Thursday
Music is in the air again. It’s time for the annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest. Walk around Captiva, or downtown Fort Myers, or Fort Myers Beach, and you’ll be treated to sounds from some of the best.
Saturday
M was looking at me weird today as I twanged around the house. It’s that little bit of country singer I have hidden inside me, unleashed by my encounter with actual musical talent last night.
Monday
The No. 1 question asked of Florida tennis players: How do you play in this heat? Simple answer: “We’re crazy (for the game).” So, B, C and M, let’s go play today!
Wednesday
Last season was a very hard one for stone crabs. Hoping for better this year as stone crab season gets underway. Claws crossed.
Friday
Oh, my gosh, I’m seeing some familiar faces out and about—Northern friends have come home to roost. The seasons are starting to change, from slow to crazy busy.
Sunday
In M’s family, there’s enough German blood to make Cape Coral’s Oktoberfest a required trip every year. It’s time for schnitzel and a nice cold pilsner.
Wednesday
Great blue heron came in for a landing right over my head in the backyard. Those long wings make a lot of noise flapping against the air. But what a grand bird.
Friday
Sometimes you just have to travel “overseas” for essentials. For example, have you ever tried to buy underwear on this little island? Not happening.
Thursday
The leaves are still green and attached to their trees, but nonetheless—it’s pumpkin time. Orange is everywhere. Watch out for sweaty little goblins on this hot Florida Halloween night.