There are 7 toys in this photo. Westley plays with 0 of them but apparently they make great napping companions on a chilly, gray day.

I discovered a surprise guest in my backyard earlier today, an Ivy-leaved Morning Glory (Ipomoea hederacea). Not sure where this tiny volunteer came from but this bright blue bloomer is a welcome addition.

I imagine my pollinators will take full advantage of this new nectar source. Fun fact, did you know that the genus Ipomoea also includes sweet potatoes?

While leaving work the other night the writing on a van in the parking lot caught my eye.

At first I thought it was a sarcastic social commentary on the overall lack of road skills exhibited by many drivers down here.

But then I read further. Nice word play, Joe!

While tending to my yard yesterday, I was a bit surprised to see this wriggly horde. I’ve seen so few butterflies in my yard since the hurricanes tore through that I just presumed it would be a quiet Spring.

Though the floodwater killed the original passionvines my sister gifted me a few years ago, two of their seedlings managed to survived.

This Gulf Fritllary seemed pretty pleased to have found them. She even gave my toes a gentle brush. I’ll take that as a thank you. Nature continues to amazes me with its resilience!

Spent a lovely afternoon kayaking out to Shell Key with Shana and Amber today. Though it was cloudy, the temperature was mild and conditions were calm, just perfect for a leisurely paddle.

The water was exceptionally clear and we were treated to a wildlife show as a stingray glided under and a dolphin swam by, seeming to show off its big catch.

Later I met Alyssa on Treasure Island for a sunset beach walk. We caught just a bit of color before being enveloped by fog.

The beach, the wildlife, the weather, and the people – some of the many reasons why I love living here! 🏝️

Lucky me, my friend Lisa flew in from Oregon for the week to help celebrate my birthday. The first few days of her visit were unseasonably (and unreasonably) cold. Thankfully, the last few were warmer and sunnier.

No matter the weather, we filled our time with fun: museums, breweries, parks, live music, tasty restaurants, bonfires, beach walks, wildlife encounters, and sunsets – not a bad way to spend a week!

It’s been awfully gray and chilly around here lately. Our highs are in the mid-fifties, which is way too far below 70° for my liking (and sadly, it’s forecast to be the same for another week or so).

This was my reward for braving the elements yesterday evening. It’s the little things…

It’s been so chilly down here that even the Gulf needs a warm, fluffy blanket! 🥶 (And yes, I’m well aware that I’m a wimp!)