First, let me apologize to Kaitlyn. In my last post, I implied that I was the only one who loaded/unloaded the car. Kaitlyn did help with both and I may have exaggerated my role just a bit, for dramatic effect. She has been an awesome travel companion who has the tough job of buffer. Sorry, Princess. Your help has not gone unnoticed.
Yesterday dawned clear and mild. As is my wont, I got up early and sat on the balcony, drinking coffee and smoking cigarettes (yes, it is a nasty habit that I will give up at some point). Although I am not a beach person, per se, I could live like this...working from the balcony on a beautiful morning. I need to win the lottery so I can sit here, write and watch the people on the beach path. Very entertaining.
I walked down to Walgreen's for a few things, stopped at McD's and picked up breakfast. Then came back to the condo. We lounged around for a while. Kaitlyn wanted to go get a pedicure, so we walked across the street. She had found a place through Google Maps that had good reviews and was really close to our condo. She was not disappointed. Her toes look spectacular and she was happy! I think it's called Island Nails. The outside is a little disreputable looking, but inside, while a little worn, the facilities were clean and well maintained. As it was a Thursday morning, there was no wait and the technician quickly got to work. They were efficient, skilled and inexpensive. If you're ever in this area and find yourself in need of a mani/pedi, I definitely recommend them.
After that, I went for a walk to the Gulf. And if you've seen my photos, it is definitely a bit of a hike. But the water was clear and I saw several schools of fish in the surf. I never go in the ocean, too many creatures, but people were enjoying themselves! After I came back, I went to the pool with Kaitlyn, while Greg did his own thing (no idea what he does, but if it makes him happy, I don't care). Kait spent most of the afternoon by the pool and I wandered around, as I get very bored just sitting by the pool. I also don't tan, so it's kind of a moot point. When she was done, we went for a walk to the shore!
We came back in and started a marathon 500 Rummy Tournament. I taught Kaitlyn to play at a young age, just as my mom and grandma had taught me. It's a great way to pass the time. The first two rounds were split, with the 3rd waiting until after dinner.
There was a bit of excitement on the beach, but I'm not exactly sure what happened. I heard sirens and there were 4 emergency vehicles on the beach. I tried to take photos, but could never get a clear shot of the action. I think someone either got stabbed by a Stingray (apparently, they love the warm waters of the Gulf from April through October) or someone drowned. I never saw anything on the beach, but it was interesting to watch.
I made Sunset Margaritas again, we watched the sun sink into the Gulf (which is always spectacular...much better than the sunrises on the other side). Greg had been searching for a restaurant on his iPad and decided he wanted Italian for dinner.
We walked up to Feola's Italian Bistro and Bar at the Thunderbird Resort Motel. It didn't seem like much, but we could eat outside in the courtyard of the Motel. The food was fresh, handmade, and large portions. I got Baked Cheese Ravioli, Greg got the same, but with meat sauce, and Kait got Baked Ziti. The salads were basic, they serve large garlic rolls with dinner. Our server was a little scattered and forgot our appetizer (Garlic Knots), so she comped us our beers. $44 plus tip...not too bad for dinner for 3.
We walked back on the Beach Path. It is a wide, winding path that runs along the beach here in Treasure Island. I'm not sure how far up or down it goes, I think we will be investigating it today.
After we got back, we finished off the margaritas and played our tie-breaking game of 500. After a very poor start, going negative the first 3 hands, I rallied and won the tournament. Kaitlyn is vowing a rematch this evening!
All in all, it was a wonderful, restful, peaceful day at the beach. We have been blessed with awesome weather and it is forecast to continue through our departure on Sunday.
Stay warm my friends! I know I will.
No comments:
Post a Comment