Beautiful Sunny Florida!

I think we all need a time of refreshing whether it be in our spirit or our physical body. I am having that desperately needed winter break for a time of basking in the sunshine and taking some time out from the busyness of my daily life. I am currently in southern Florida visiting my parents and loving this awesome weather. When I checked the weather in Michigan this morning it was 6 degrees but here in Florida it is 74.  It was so wonderful to wake up to the glorious sunshine!

We went to the Farmers Market and it was quite the experience.  The newspaper said there were 7000 people last week at the market. I thought they were kidding until I actually went. Wow! There were hundreds of vendors with so many different products to sell. The fresh produce was so lovely to behold! After the long gloomy, cold winter it was so refreshing to see all the fresh fruit and vegetables. The honeybell oranges are my absolute favorites. They are so sweet and delicious.  We bought a loaf of rosemary focaccia bread after tasting a sample. We also bought some mustard seed gouda cheese and some horseradish chive havarti. The enticing aromas wafting through the market made my mouth water. There was a huge probably 4′ x 4′ pan that they were cooking chinese food on. We wanted to try it but the line was too long. It took nearly 2 hours to navigate the entire market. There was a nice ocean breeze and the temperature was nearly perfect.

We then went back to the house and enjoyed the sunshine until 230 when we went on our next adventure. This was the “pre-sale” of a 3 day rummage sale at a church. I have never seen anything like it. The sale started at 3. We arrived at 2:40 and joined the line of hundreds, yes hundreds of people. At 3 o’clock on the dot they opened the doors and what a madhouse it was. The rummage sale was both in doors and out. There was a tent full of dishes, one of furniture, tools, toys christmas decorations, etc.. Inside, there were clothes, books, shoes and many other items. It was impressive how well organized it was. Everything was clearly marked and each table had its own cashier. To give you an idea of how massive this sale was, they had 600 volunteers! It cost $5 admission to get in to this pre sale. The remaining 2 days have free admission. I never would have thought I would pay to go to a rummage sale but I must admit it was so much fun. I went with my Dad and my daughter Anne and we had a blast. We all found treasures we couldn’t live without and the prices were incredibly low. This sale ends on Saturday where you can buy a bag for $5 and you can fill it with absolutely anything.  That also is fun! I have done that before!

I love the refreshing feeling of the ocean breeze and the sunshine without a cloud in the sky. I love being with my loved ones and making memories that will last and be cherished. We try and take advantage of every moment and always being thankful for this special winter break.