Saturday, December 1, 2012

'Tis the Season

It may be the first of December, but it certainly doesn't feel like it.

The temperatures are warm, the surf's up and today began with breakfast on the balcony. What's not to like?


To compensate for that hearty breakfast, (me, not John) we walked all the way to the rocks at the end of the peninsula. I must be settling into this climate, because today I actually decided to wear my bathing suit, and cover up, along with my new winter boots. Sorry. I can't help myself! ;-)


This year is has been one of many changes, and for the first time ever we won't be putting up a Christmas tree. One reason is we'll be in Boston, so we'll let our daughter handle the decorating. Just the same, it's nice to see that tinsel and garland is popping up all over the building. Here's the front entrance...


And a close-up shot of the 'trees' on either side of the doors.


A few 'sparkling' reindeer have taken up residence on the lawn.


Not wanting to frighten them away, I strolled down the street to take some pictures of the neighborhood. Even Schooners is looking festive for the holiday season.


This is near the end of Gulf Drive, looking back toward the condo. It's the tall white building.


The homes on this street run the gamut from shabby row houses...


...to modest single home dwellings.


There are modern brick, townhouses...


...as well as those made of wood and painted in tropical shades. 


If a single dwelling is more to your liking, there's this understated one directly on the beach.


It comes at a premium, of course, so there's this one across the street. The loft provides that must-have gulf view.


These homes sit next to the gulf and built on stilts in case of flooding.

 

If money is not an issue, this artistic structure might interest you.


There's also this home with plenty of flair and pizazz for those with deep pockets.


Wherever your preference, it's easy to hit the surf. These public access gates line the beach, and are numbered so no one gets lost. (Our access gate is #5.)


Come on. Let's take a stroll down to the beach.


Well, surprise, surprise. Guess who's been here all afternoon, playing in his kayak?


Yup. John. 'Tis the Season!

* * *