Last night I joined my friends Peggy and Katie (and her dog Reef) for the Jingle Bell Run in downtown St. Pete. The 5k, a fundraiser for veterans causes, is now in its 39th year and these folks know how to put on an event!

They encouraged fun outfits, handed out jingle bell bracelets and glow necklaces, surprised us with snow (fake, of course), and had live bands scattered along the route to keep our spirits bright. The city’s colorful holiday decorations added to the overall cheer.

I admit, my feet were a bit sore by the end (having also walked a few miles earlier that day with my friend Amber), but it was a wonderful way to spend the evening. Jingle on!

I was mesmerized by the droplets of the crashing waves; glowing from the intense color from the setting sun. Never a dull moment…

I stopped to snap a few photos of the fog in downtown St. Petersburg this morning. This view across Coffee Pot Bayou was particularly enchanting. I was surprised by the results, they look like vintage postcards. I can’t decide, which version do you prefer?

I met some friends this afternoon to catch the final sunset of November. Thought you’d enjoy a few peaceful beach moments. I will never tire of this view!

Nothing to argue with here…

I feel the same as this well-fed squirrel. My belly may be full but don’t you dare touch my plate of leftovers!

Though the food is delicious, the most important and memorable thing about this time of year is the time spent with friends and loved ones. So much to be grateful for!

I scroll through Facebook Marketplace every so often, looking for treasures for my yard and home. I always check the Free section (after all, free is my favorite four-letter word). Came across this compelling ad last week.

Looks like the pups had a good time un-upholstering that couch! I’m sure Marian was none too pleased with this disaster but at least she had a sense of humor about it. Certainly made me laugh.

Ever have one of those days when you just don’t feel all that motivated? Same for this squirrel.

I spotted this Alligator hatchling at Sawgrass Lake Park last week. Since they usually hang out in a pod (a safety in numbers thing) I was surprised to find this one on its own. Though I didn’t see her, I knew mom had to be nearby, quite possibly under my feet (I was on a boardwalk).

Hope your middle of the week is as peaceful as this gator!

A friend and I recently took a couple hours one evening to explore the new expansion of Robinson Preserve in Bradenton. Manatee County has certainly invested some time and effort into this restoration project!

In addition to the construction of ramadas, well-defined walking paths and scenic bridges, they’ve done a tremendous job reintroducing native plants to the landscape. Though young and small now, they will definitely benefit wildlife in the years to come.

What I found most impressive was the kayak setup. Not only are there several launch spots with rinse stations but the park also offers kayak storage (for a monthly fee).

What a great idea – no more loading your kayak on your vehicle and lugging it around. Instead, just pull it out of the safe, weather-protected space and plop it on the water. It’s definitely a popular feature, of the 50 slots I only counted 5 that were not in use.