Fort DeSoto

The Peace River

Thursday, January 5, 2017

Tampa bars...Charleston to Tampa and Back

cool tampa spots
tampa bars and restaurants Best Neighborhood Bars:

http://maddogs.com/  amazing atmosphere.  small.  authentic.

http://www.10best.com/destinations/florida/tampa/soho/nightlife/tiny-tap-tavern/  hole in the wall authentic amazing fun


Best Restaurants:

http://www.datztampa.com/  semi-casual, amazing food, amazing beer..a no brainer

http://www.ulele.com/  reservations a must.  Gorgeous, eclectic, cool, amazing...locally owned, and stellar

http://www.edison-tampa.com/#modern-cuisine  A bit more modern, chic, cool vibe.








Sunday, March 2, 2014

Mixon Farms Orange Blossom Fest!

What a treat for all of us!  This working farm was turned into a festival today, with something for every age.  Between the craft tents, handmade jewelry, sausage dogs, kettle corn, bungee jump and climbing tower, live music, and beverages for young and old(er)....what a cool day! 

Best part-the "kids area".  Games, slides, a maze, tractor rides, jump castles.....stellar!  Mixon Farms Bradenton Florida.



capitol theatre clearwater

Capitol Theatre has recently been restored, adding a glimpse of the past to downtown Clearwater.  Sitting in the theatre, we felt we were stepping back in time, especially since we were watching the charming and talented Bob Newhart.  Mr. Newhart, at his "young" age of 85, didn't miss a beat, and we enjoyed lots of laughs and fond memories.

The only downside....food and beverage selection is very limited in this venue.  There are only a few wine selections, and the food choices were similar to a movie theater.  There are a few nice dining choices in walking distance, so eat before the show!

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Legoland Florida

LEGOLAND is easily a daytrip from the Tampa/Orlando area.  We chose to stay overnight in Kissimmee, which is about 20 minutes from the park. 

Rides vary in restrictions, from heights 30 in tall to a 48 in requirement.  Our 5 year old was able to ride everything (if not alone, then with her dad), and our 4 year old was able to ride about 70% of the rides (at 40 in).

Our favorite ride as a family was the Dragon rollercoaster, a MUST!  We also enjoyed the sky ride that looked over the area..gorgeous at sunset!  The Lego 4d show was really incredible, and it is a brief 20 minutes...well worth the time. 

Of the games we played, the "can" game and prizes was the best for our 4-5 year old.  Beware of the very expensive slushy drinks.  They are extremely sweet, and it is hard to get the bottom 1/4 of the drink through the straw.

LEGOLAND
 


Sunday, February 9, 2014

Florida State Fair

I don't get to post as often as I'd like, but kudos to those who organized the Florida State Fair.  I was pretty impressed by the patience and time spent in pulling this huge event off, and beyond impressed by the 4-H kids at how much they value their skill and passion in working with animals.

Let's face it...for many of us, it's checking the "box" of to-dos for our kids.  I went today thinking just that.  The price of admission is minimal,  but for a 4 and 5 year old to ride, plus adults to ride when required...plus the games...the food....the fried "whatever"....GUMBALLS???? PRICEY but worth it in the long run.  Kinda reminds me of one of those commercials....

fair admission:$13pp, hotdogs $4, fried gumballs $6, all-day ride bands $30;  napping for 3 hours after?....PRICELESS!

What I realized today was that even with cost of rides, food, and games (ps-like the rides, tell the kids they are not tall enough to play the games!!!!), this is one of those timeless opportunities.  Not a whole lot has changed.  I didn't see an arcade.  I didn't see laser tag.  I didn't see a techno/hiphop/crazy teen thing.  I saw the same things I remember as a kid.  Dirt.  Grease.  Flashing lights of ads portraying less than stellar items of consumption (to some); I saw sheep, goats, insects, cows, ponies, pigs, people perhaps dressed as animals-perhaps? 

I am glad some things have not changed.  Today I could say, "I spent a day just like this 35 years ago."  Those times have become few and far between.


Friday, January 17, 2014

gasparilla tshirt ideas

We had a great time designing our OWN tshirts for the parade...go to Michaels or a craft store and grab some Jolees transfer sheets.  Choose or create an image.  Iron on...follow directions.  This was just great, and so much cheaper than store bought tsoriginal tshirts

Friday, November 8, 2013

Tampa Greek festival

We love this event.  The food is just simply good.  The people are charming, hospitable, and lighthearted.  The jewelry and clothes are authentic and fun.  And for kids, there are games, lots of bounce houses, arts and crafts, and more. 

We went today and enjoyed Greek food at its best, and prepared lovingly and authentically.  In fact, we took advantage of the frozen trays they offered to have for Thanksgiving.

It's a MUST!  Be sure to park in the assigned and free spots.  $2 entry, and kids under 12 are free.  Beer, wine, etc. and food are extra.  The fun and entertainment is included!!!

Tampa Greek Festival