Beach Scenes - Florida Gulf Coast

Vacationing on the Gulf Coast of Florida has become a tradition for me over the past two decades.

Every year, during the same week in September, my long time friend and I set out for the beach where we spend seven wonderful days together at her timeshare right on the coast.

We start the week off with a trip to the store to pick up our groceries and ingredients for our bottomless pitcher of sangria.



Back at the efficiency apartment, I begin by measuring out sugar and cinnamon into a large pitcher.


Then I cut up the oranges and apples and add them to the sugar mixture along with a cup of brandy.

The fruit infusion pitcher is my newest online purchase and I'm delighted with the shape and quality of it. It arrived promptly and in perfect shape to put it to use.

We like to garnish our glasses with the brandied fruit and after the first batch, we found it easier to not use the plastic insert.

Afterward, we made our way down to the water's edge to put a toe into the Gulf. The water was warm, but rough. The temperature was pleasant with a light breeze to combat the humidity.

Flocks of birds were there to greet us and share their view of the water.

Day one ended with our customary viewing of the spectacular sunset on the beach.

More beach photos from the week will follow soon.

Taking a stroll down the beach, I found a couple of birds fishing underneath the pier.

This one was determined to catch a fish and while he was busy, he let me approach to within about five feet.

The water was really rough as the tide came in right after the rain and thunderstorm. The pelican in the background was taking a break from fishing.