Fabulous Miami

I would tell anyone who hates the cold to come to south Florida during the winter months! It is especially beautiful to experience palm trees and blue skies and 77 degrees when you know back home there is ice, rain or snow and cold temperatures. I landed in Ft Lauderdale Tuesday and it was a balmy day and we drove from the airport to her store in Boca -- Nordstrom is upscale and fits right in with the lifestyle there. It is exciting to watch Kelly in action. She really knows her job and has great social skills - I'm so proud to be her mom.

We were at the gas station when I got a call from Pam. Those of you who were at my house after Mom passed away may remember her; she took Penny in after she ran into her and caused Mom to fall. Well, Pam told me that her dog Isis is fighting a lot because Pam is getting closer to Penny and she's jealous. So she asked if I would take Penny back. Would I?!! Absolutely!! So as soon a I get home, I'll bring my pup back home. I am so happy.

Tomorrow would have been Mom's 89th birthday and it makes me sad to think she did not get to finish the things she wanted to do. But, our lives are divinely measured and we never know the date we are to leave the earth. I still find myself surprised that Mom is gone and many times have wanted to tell her about something I see or think and I can't. I suppose that will stay with me a long time because I spent 57 years on this earth and she was always here. I'll miss her til the day I die.

But I'm not stuck in the grief. I'm moving on and my joie de vivre is returning being in the sunny state of Florida. Don't be surprised if I decide to move here. Mom may have hated it here, but I love the sunshine and the blue skies, the palm trees and ocean breezes. So far, I haven't seen any bugs but it is winter so maybe they are in hiding ;-) LOL I went for a walk to Starbucks this morning and it was quite warm but I'm not complaining! It is beautiful in Coral Gables which was one of the first planned communities in the country back in the 20s! The streets are broad; there are stately Mediterranean homes, Banyan trees, and tropical foliage that is in bloom even in January. Most of the houses are stucco with red-tiled roofs and painted tan or cream and everything ties together so lovely. She really has the best view on the top floor of a high rise condo building and only a few blocks from the Miracle Mile, which is the restaurant and shopping district.

We are taking off for the weekend to hit the beach. Hoping it doesn't rain - but even if it does, I'm happy to be here. It really has been good to get out of town even though I am working. I feel happier than I've felt in a very long time. Keep warm my yankee family!