Between our two residences, it seems Al and I always have a list of projects that need to be tackled. Neither of us are complaining, we both enjoy getting things accomplished (maybe not so much during the doing but definitely when we can enjoy the fruits of our labor).

The important thing is to make sure we have some fun along the way. I think we do a pretty good job balancing work and play. A couple Saturdays ago, we transformed a section of his front yard before catching a Bradenton Marauders Baseball game.

The ballpark was celebrating Margaritaville night (with live music and Hawaiian shirts) and the weather was perfect for a ball game. We had a great time (even though the Marauders managed to find multiple ways to lose the game). At one point, I even caught a player carrying off a base (pretty sure that’s NOT what the manager meant when he told him to steal a base).

Sunday afternoon we wandered out to Jiggs Landing, a little slice of old Florida located on the north shore of Evers Reservoir. The outpost offers fishing, canoeing, lake/river tours, and even has rental cabins for overnight stays. The best part? They have live music every day, three hours before sunset.

The property, which is owned and operated by Manatee County, is surrounded by large housing developments. But, if you look south across the water and focus on the trees, you can slide back in time and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

One life, right? Might as well make the most of it!