The final sunset of the year was a mellow affair but, after all the ‘excitement’ of 2020, that was fine by me. I’m relieved to close the door on this year and am cautiously optimistic about the one ahead.
Much love and light to all!
Happy New Year!
Archive for ‘Observations’
Good Work
Many of you know that back in mid-March I was forced out of work by the closure of restaurants here in Florida. Shortly thereafter, I began volunteering at a local food bank. As is my wont, I researched many local organizations before settling on the St. Petersburg Free Clinic.
I chose to volunteer with them for a couple reasons. One, they’ve been serving the community for 50 years. Two, the nonprofit has three main components: food bank, health and dental clinic, and recovery housing (as well as many other assistance programs).
While I’m a hard worker, I must admit that my time volunteering these past nine months has also been incredible beneficial to me. It provided much needed bolstering of the spirit to be in the company of all these dedicated people striving to help those in need.
So, I am delighted to announce that I Monday I started working for the clinic. I’m in a small, behind the scenes role but it is a good fit for me right now and I’m happy to be a part of the team.
The mural featured above was just finished this week and I feel it embodies the ethos of the organization. Added bonus – I drive by it every day on my way to work!
Move Over Angel
This is how we top our trees down here in St. Petersburg!
Across the Bay
‘Tis the Season for…Repurposing
In need of a headboard 
Cast off shutters 
Cut and assemble 
Needs a good cleaning 
Headboard problem solved!
Since the bedroom window in my new house is larger than the one in my old rental, I recently found myself in need of a headboard. Turns out those darn things can be kind of expensive so I put the purchase off for a bit.
Driving home the other evening I saw these closet shutters out by the curb. Figuring I could find a good use for them (and hating to see things thrown away), I turned around and shoved them in the back of my car. Thankfully, my Prius is rather like the Room of Requirement at Hogwarts – it accommodates most every need of mine.
After a few quick measurements I realized the shutters would work as a headboard. I made my plan that night and put it into action the following day. I might decide to paint them later but for now I’m quite pleased with the result. Cost of materials: $0. Sense of accomplishment: Priceless.
Perfect Gift
Hoping your day is filled with all the magical gifts of the season! 🎄
Sand > Snow
I don’t handle cold weather and snow very well. Which is why I’m happy to be relaxing on the beach for the holidays. Wherever you are celebrating, I wish you peace, love, and joy.
CTTO for the first four images, I snapped the last three here in Treasure Island.
Water Your Tree!
I came across this on the internet recently and became so enamored with the author’s creativity that I just had to share it.
Another “Fun” House Project
Since I purchased my home the rotten exterior door in the laundry room has been on my list of things to dread (I mean, do). Instead of replacing the door I decided to fill it in (there is another exit to the backyard a mere fifteen feet away). I estimated it would take me day to complete my task, so of course, it took two.
As always, the demo part was easy (and fun). The block laying however was a bit less so. I had to install 20 8x8x16 blocks. Considering each one weighs roughly 35 pounds, I lifted 700 pounds yesterday – who needs to join a gym?!
Today I merely had to smear on the stucco. I’ll let it dry out for a few days before I paint it. Oh, and if anyone needs me for anything, I can be found at Back & Body Hurts!
Serene Sea
Let the Gulf of Mexico provide you a moment of peace during this hectic season.
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