I don't now about you but I really appreciate the details evident in all of our downtown 1800's buildings. As they say, they sure don't build them like that anymore. Many of you will recognize this side view of the courthouse. Pretty.
We've got lots doin' this weekend if you're still looking for a place to hang your star-spangled hat for a small town July 4th celebration. 
Our resident downtown ambassador, Felix (r), met up with one of the Philly Boyz from Philly Boyz Cheese Steaks, a newly opened business behind the Palace Saloon. I'm sure that Felix is explaining the ins and outs of downtown delivery, which they both do. Please get along, boys, we need you both.
I appreciate the creativity of the people of Amelia Island whether it's the selection of plants in a garden, a whimsical display in a yard or store window, a way to help those less fortunate or a different way to stay in business during difficult times. Sometimes it's just a slogan that makes me smile. Masseuses, in fact do knead people. Well done Second to None Massages.
We've had quite few bed and breakfast rookies this week but Jeanette and Anna took to the experience like pros: cleaned their plates at breakfast, drank a few of our red wine slushes at Social Hour, and mastered the famous "girls' jump" as if they'd practiced all weekend (they had). Yep, Rookies of the Year... or at least of the week. They've got some competition from some anniversary couples still with us. Fun week.
Who would think that what some consider to be a weed could be so beautiful and useful in the landscape? Not moi. As many of you know, I grew up in Baltimore and we didn't have lantana there. Since I've moved to the south, I've been mesmerized by all of the different colors available. And to have so many colors on one plant. And on the same flower. But the best part is that lantana has become an integral part of our commitment to xeriscaping our yard. Lots of color, less watering, less replanting, more wildlife. We've got some trailing varieties planted near our cottages and we're about to add some to some parched areas of the property. And they call it a weed...
This Fernandina cottage is always a joy to walk by. The paint is always crisp, the porch is always welcoming and the garden is always in bloom and weed free. A good bit of eye-candy all the way around. And there are many, many like this here. Thanks, good neighbors!
I have fallen off the fitness wagon big time (I've always been honest with my loyal blog readers, especially after a glass or two of wine) and I'm ready to get back on. I renewed our annual pass at Ft. Clinch today - which gains us admittance to all Florida state parks - and I'm ready to sit on this bench to lace up my running shoes and head down that road behind it. Unless it gets hot or difficult, then I'm totally wimping out. Just kidding. I'm ready to get back on that horse, jump back in the saddle, face my demons, stare down the dragon, unleash the Clagon, look in the mirror, turn the page, break through the wall, or, um, just jog a bit. Wish me luck.
As many of you know, we have a different way of doing things around here and why should Christmas be any different? I found the local version of a nutcracker though the window of Christmas On the River, our year-round Christmas shop featuring international collections as well as locally inspired pieces. Add this to your surfin' Santa and you've got yourself an island holiday.
Those of you who are longtime blog readers (you're clearly cool, good-looking and intelligent) will probably remember a prior post when I talked about Kate's Tree, pictured. We have many newbies, however, so I hope that you'll forgive me (again) for repeating myself (again). Newbies may ask "why is there a tree in the middle of the road"? It's because in the early 1900's the City came along to widen the street and set up to take down this majestic oak. Kate Bailey who lived in the shrimp bisque grand Victorian (whose converted carriage house is visible from this angle) wasn't having any of that. She grabbed her shotgun and sat on her porch and threatened anyone who came anywhere near the tree with severe bodily harm. She stayed until she got assurances that the tree would be spared and here is the result. I was particularly grateful to Kate today when it was pushing 90 degrees toward the end of my walk.
You get a group of third grade teachers from Volusia County together and look what happens. Actually, you get a group of teachers of any grade together this time of year and I bet you'll see some similar jumps for joy. Tis the season to blow off steam and help someone else's local economy. Ladies, thanks for selecting ours. It was memorable.
Boy, when the vincas are properly watered they put on a pretty good show. Really blasting out all over the island right now. No need to get out of the kitchen, they can take the heat.
Scotty, the owner/chef of 29 South Eats, has started his own vegetable/herb/fruit garden out back of the restaurant and our guests tell us that the results are worth the effort. It looks like he's got some grapevines started too. Thinking about making his own wine?
I love this crape myrtle on Second Street. It's been well-pruned over the years to allow it to give this profusely purple pleasing performance every June. No ticket necessary. Well done, neighbors.
Even on cloudy days our ice cream shops are mega popular. I've never been by when there wasn't a line. I thank the ice cream lovers among you for your patience when I state the obvious.
Into the future. Our city has jumped into the electric vehicle movement with both feet and we greenies at the Fairbanks House are pretty happy about that. They've replaced many vehicles with hybrids or full-fledged electric cars (and carlets like this). In fact the City of Fernandina Beach has just been named in the top 100 list for fleet management in the country. We've got a ways to go but they're definitely moving in the right direction.
Bill spent a few days in Orlando visiting his sister and her family so, upon his return, we had a lunch date at one of our favorite places, Cafe Karibo. Here he is, about to dig into our usual - the Turkey Cuban. Mmmmmmmmmmmm.
We've still got rooms available for this weekend when you can catch the monthly first Friday Sounds On Centre free concert on Centre Street. Should be a great evening for a street party. Come on out.
Not sure if he's coming or going but I decided to let him do it undisturbed. After all, he probably came to the Greenway to get some peace and quiet. I grant him his wish. If more people would do that they'd see a whole lot more out there.
...in the form of our Chamber Music Festival. There are a couple of weeks left of the festival if you're so inclined and if you are, please note that our guests are eligible for discounts at most concerts. We've been fortunate to have several of the artists staying with us during their time on the island. These two very talented musicians, Christina Smith (flute) and Elisabeth Remy Johnson (harp) were headed out to perform at tonight's sold out concert at Ft. Clinch and they graciously stopped for a photo call beforehand. This is the eighth season of the festival and while it changes every year, a few fan favorite concerts have remained steady including the concerts at Ft. Clinch and the Beer and G-Strings concerts at the Palace Saloon.
