the (fabricated) story of my ring: part 3.

{Part 1 here, Part 2 here.}

As George walked out of his apartment, he mourned for his typewriter. So much hard work had been tapped into those keys and it felt strange and a bit depressing to let it go. George wondered if other people had attachments to inanimate objects like the attachment he felt to his typewriter. Probably not, he thought to himself. He needed to make more friends.

Nadine stood perfectly still in her apartment. She walked to the kitchen and opened her refrigerator door to get some cool air. Although she almost instantly regretted her decision to write the Man With the Bright Red Socks a letter, she wasn't one for second guessing herself, so she decided to leave it be. Matilda was perched on Nadine's small, tan couch and Nadine joined her, waiting. She realized it could be hours before the man saw the letter, and even days before he decided to reply (if he decided to reply). Nadine opened a book, and read without understanding. Her thoughts were elsewhere.

George felt ridiculous. He felt completely and utterly alone without his typewriter and no human friends. I need a cat, he thought. He turned to open the apartment's lobby door and step outside when a piece of paper caught his eye. Certainly it's not for me, he thought, but it does look like it's attached to my mailbox. He stood still and considered reading the letter. But what if it wasn't for him? He decided to read it anyway. He blushed.

After reading a couple pages without really paying attention to them, Nadine decided it was high time she go and do something productive. She fed Matilda and gave her a small bowl of milk, something she liked to do on Saturdays. She thought of her friend Emma, who was probably doing something marvelous and exciting. She then thought about how boring her life was in this moment. As she sat in her living room with her cat, thinking of a man she did not know, writing a letter to that same man, and running back up to her apartment to think about how silly she felt for writing the letter to the man she did not know, opening her refrigerator door to get fresh air, reading a book without understanding — it all felt too predictable. With that, she grabbed her purse and headed outside.

Hearing rustling in the lobby, George ducked outside to catch his breath. His heart felt as though it had dropped into his hands and he felt silly for being so nervous about a letter from the woman in the hardware store. Surely it had to be the same woman with the floral skirt and hair just so. He memorized her handwriting, the curves of the letters, the way she addressed him as The Man With the Bright Red Socks. He relished the fact that she noticed small details and he felt himself melting into a puddle, a happy one no less.

Nadine walked outside and did not notice the missing letter, or the fact that George was standing just outside their apartment entrance. She was much too consumed by being someone who was unpredictable (something she was consumed by quite often). She thought about all the ways she could not be a bore. She thought of ways to be mysterious, unattainable. Someone who struck curiosity in others. These were all things she thought of quite often, almost as though she were rehearsing for a part in a play — herself, but different.

But what Nadine did not realize was that somewhere, The Man With the Bright Red Socks, who felt a connection to a (now broken) typewriter, was intrigued by her forwardness, her desire to be up front and transparent in any given situation. What she did not realize was that with just a few of her scribbled words on a piece of paper, The Man With the Bright Red Socks felt a lift in his spirits, the chance to make a friend other than a typewriter. How unexpected, he thought.

Part 4 to follow.

florida travel guide: places to see (part 1).

This ended up being a much longer list than I originally anticipated. I asked for suggestions from friends and family, so this is the best of the best. Northern Florida suggestions to come!

Central Florida

> Orange Blossom Grove. Citrus is a quintessential Florida staple. At Orange Blossom Grove you can buy citrus, soft serve ice cream, taffy, tacky Florida souvenirs (that are actually kind of awesome), Florida honey, and you can see a little backdoor peak of how they manage all their citrus. It's a small little outing, but one that's really fun and happy.

> The Tampa Theatre. This theatre is one of the most beautiful, magical places I've ever seen. I automatically feel like I'm going back in time when I step inside. Whether you sign up for a haunted tour or decide to see a movie instead, it is definitely worth a trip!

> Heritage Village. One of my personal favorites, Heritage Village saves historical homes and opens them to the public. Everything from an old caboose to a (vast) assortment of old doctors' tools to an old schoolhouse (complete with bell) is located on the property. And it's educational, too, which is an added bonus (in my opinion)!

>Tampa Bay Rays (Spring Training) Game. I am a baseball fan, and I think it's even more fun when you get to go to a game. The spring training games are a super fun time, and I love the regular season games as well.

> Sarasota Salvage Yard. This is such a fun and unique place to visit if you're looking for an attraction that's more off the beaten path (those are my favorite). There are so many neat objects to look at and a bunch of hidden treasures that would make really special souvenirs. A must-see, for sure.

> Florida Parks. Florida has a significant amount of parks that are incredible and so much fun to visit. If you are visiting Florida and need a list of recommendations, please email me.

> Lowry Park Zoo. If you enjoy zoos, Lowry Park is a really, really great one. One of my top recommendations for something fun and special to do in Florida.

> Ringling Museum of Art. I can't say enough about the Ringling Museum. From beautiful banyan trees to a beautiful rose garden to an incredible mansion to beautiful artwork to amazing vintage circus paraphernalia, it is truly (!) a gem to behold.

> Hillsborough River. Canoeing on this river is one of the most relaxing, serene, and peaceful trips I have ever taken. The natural beauty is breathtaking and it's a front seat to some of Florida's finest aspects.

> St. Petersburg Art Museum & The Dali Museum. I have not yet been to the new Dali museum, but I am sure it is incredible. As for the St. Pete Art Museum, it's a lovely place to visit.

> Historic Ybor City Tour. We went on this tour a few years ago, and it was so much fun to learn a bit more about Ybor's history. I certainly recommend it for people who enjoy learning about the past!

> Indian Rocks Beach. A small, but beautiful beach that is less crowded than the ever-popular Clearwater Beach. A bit more scenic and peaceful, which is exactly what a beach should be, in my opinion.

cristino's.

I'm not sure about you, but dining out is one of my favorite things to do. Even better is dining out with good company. The best is dining out spontaneously at an unusual dining hour, say 3:30 pm. Add the best pepperoni there is and beautiful weather for eating outside, and you have created one of the most wonderful ways to spend a Sunday afternoon. And for the record, pepperoni's not really my thing, so that must mean this stuff is really, really good.

apple crisp.

There are some desserts that are just cozy. The kind of dessert you want to make when it's rainy, a bit chilly, and there is a big, warm blanket in your future. That dessert comes in the form of a crisp, with Pink Lady apples and vanilla ice cream.

We have made this crisp many times. It is easy and most of the ingredients are probably in your pantry. You should know, though, that it takes 55 minutes to bake. That news could be a blow to your sweet tooth if you weren't expecting it, so you're welcome. We enjoyed ours while watching The Help, which I adored.

little snapshots.

1. There's something about bulletin boards that I really love.
2. Valentine's flowers for my mom (from my dad).
3. This cute little guy.
4. Sister's artwork (pictured: My beautiful Grammy).
5. Wise old soul.
6. Year of dates for my dad (from my mom).

I felt like a weekend at home could do me good so that's exactly where I went. I finally saw The Help (and loved it), we made apple crisp (recipe to come), we took a 9.5 mile walk (!) and stopped at O'Keefe's to celebrate, saw Dolphin Tale, went to Cristino's, met my sweet, 6.5-week old cousin, and my mom and I made two Target runs, which is a necessity during a weekend at home. It was the perfect weekend to get rejuvenated and remind myself of the strong roots from which I come. Happy Monday, friends! xo

florida travel guide: restaurants.

Northern Florida

> Lunchbox. A sweet little spot for outdoor dining, Lunchbox offers fresh, veg-friendly cuisine. We like the tacos. They also offer homemade soda, unique desserts, and delicious french fries.

> Satchel's. Our personal favorite. Honestly, the best pizza I have ever tasted. The deep dish and traditional pizzas are equally impressive. Always, always order a salad. Stop at Lightning Salvage (the backdoor trinket shop) before leaving. On the weekends, go early or you'll wait forever. It's worth it, though.

> Boca Fiesta. If you like Mexican food with a twist, you'll probably like this. We like getting the chips and queso more than anything. (They also offer alligator tacos, if you're into that kind of thing.)

> Dragonfly. Delicious sushi. I like the grilled chicken roll as someone who is not a seafood fan. Tempura cheesecake and Tempura ice cream are insanely delicious dessert selections.

> The Top. Quirky atmosphere with a special Sunday brunch, wide (delicious) selection of desserts, and veg-friendly entrees. Also, a photobooth.

> Leonardo's. Pizza, fast. Inexpensive, really tasty. Slices to try: Thick cheese, Portobello, Spin Tom. Calzones are wonderful (but take about 20 minutes to prepare). I also really love the Organic salad. Get the rolls with both kinds of sauces.

> La Tienda. Authentic Mexican food at a decent price. The Chimichanga is our favorite. Good chips, lots of bottled soda selections. A must try for Mexican food lovers.

> Plaza Coffee Shop. Quintessential diner, straight out of a book or movie set. Incredible pancakes, traditional diner food, a must-eat breakfast place if there ever was one!

Central Florida

> Toula's Trailside Cafe. Located on the county's public bicycle trail, Toula's is the perfect spot for breakfast. Favorites: Greek or Italian Scramble and the Banana Bread French Toast. Big portions, easy to split.

> Cappy's. The best deep dish slice of pizza in the South, I guarantee it (I've also heard the NY slice is good). Get the Greek salad and sit outside. There are three locations, all of which are most likely awesome. Our go-to location is in a historic house. Also, they give bubblegum with the bill. That should be reason enough to GO THERE.

> Mazzaro's Italian Market. A really neat Italian grocery store with amazing (and amazingly priced) sandwiches. We like the #2 (not pressed). A very impressive selection of bottled sodas, an incredible bakery (!), and a fun place to simply browse. This place is always crowded, but it is worth it!

> El Cap. The best no-fuss burger I have ever tasted. Plain and simple.

> Thai Basil. My favorite restaurant, maybe ever. Friendly service, great meals, and the most delicious Thai iced tea that ever was. Suggestions: Chicken Cashew, Red Curry with tofu, and Vegetable Pad Thai.

> Cristino's. Wonderful thin sliced pizza. We like to get the Margherita with pepperoni. Seriously, the best (Best!) pepperoni I have EVER had. Their gelato is really good, too.

> O'Keefe's. A really fun and unique selection of burgers. Reminds of the kind of place that would be especially fun to duck into on a rainy day.

> Pinky's. The best breakfast in the bay area. Really funky, fun atmosphere with friendly service. Their frittatas are especially tasty. They also have really great pancakes.

> Pizza Shack. The best breadsticks. The best calzones. A family favorite for many, many years.

> Main Bar Sandwich Shop. Probably the best pressed Italian sandwich I have ever had. Plus, all kinds of really neat, vintage circus photos on the walls.

a moment in time.

It's quiet this evening. The door is open and the birds are chirping. The incessant construction that surrounds our little home sounds friendly today and some clothes are out drying on our little entry way. A chair is sitting out by the front door, still open from Jeffrey's outdoor lunch. And it is all just so lovely. So lovely to remember the little things and just how special they are when you stop and allow them to be.

florida travel guide.

As a citizen (and lover) of The Sunshine State, I felt as though it was high time to create a guide dedicated to exploring the hidden gems that my home state has to offer. Florida is a place that will always have a special spot in my heart. My childhood was spent slurping popsicles that had melted, building sandcastles, and wearing a lot of tank tops, shorts, and flip flops.

People tend to think they have Florida pegged down: Old people, tourist trap (see: Disney World), hot. These may be true, but there are also a lot of small wonders off the beaten path that I, personally, believe are worth seeing. I think most residents of Florida would agree with me.

Obviously, this guide will grow. It will also take me some time to poke through my archives to pull out the posts in which I write about specific places (my desire to be private often leaves my descriptions somewhat vague). Therefore, I have decided to present this guide in sections. I'll start with restaurants (which will be posted tomorrow), perhaps my favorite category.

And as a general disclaimer, my recommendations may or may not suit your tastes. For example, if you don't fancy a giant garage sale that requires a lot of patience to find a bit of magic to take home, then the Junk Lady is probably not for you. That being said, every place or attraction I add to this list is one that gets a sparkling recommendation from me (and, most likely, my family and friends). Of course, if you have any questions, please email me.

the (fabricated) story of my ring: part 2.

{Part 1 here.}

Nadine turned to leave, a handful of supplies in her arms, none of which looked even remotely useful (or familiar to her). As she left, she fell in perfect step behind the man with the bright red socks. The closer she got to her apartment, she worried the man with the bright red socks would think she was following him. She sat on a bench and waited. Watching the man, she noticed he stopped at her complex. Her heart swelled.

George was determined to fix his own typewriter with what little knowledge he had of tools and handywork. As he walked home, he thought about what would happen if he gutted his typewriter and then couldn't fix it. It was just then that he realized that the sweet woman with the floral skirt was in close step behind him. He wondered where she was headed and felt compelled to ask. As soon as the thought entered his mind, he realized how ridiculous it sounded. Just then, she stopped at a bench.

Nadine wondered how long she should sit on that bench before making her way to her apartment. She then wondered how possible it would be to ask George for assistance with her apartment decorating. Surely he knew something about handywork if he ventured into a hardware store. Not the kind to stand on the sidelines of her own life, she resolved to write him a letter. She would leave it on the row of mailboxes in the small lobby of the apartment. Surely he would see it then.

With her new found plan, she walked into the complex and into her apartment. Sitting down to craft the letter to the man with the bright red socks, Matilda jumped onto her lap and Nadine patted her little orange head.

George sat down in front of his typewriter, gave it one last affectionate pat, and began taking it apart. He realized it was a mistake as soon as he began.

Dear Man with the Bright Red Socks,

Please forgive me if this letter is perceived as intrusive. I saw you at the hardware store today at around 2pm and wondered if you could help me with a bit of decorating. I'm concerned about the weight of one particular piece I'd like to hang and was wondering if I could get your advice. You remind me of someone I once knew.

Sincerely,
Nadine (Apartment 3B)

The letter sounded impersonal, formal even. Nadine wondered if it would come off as such. The last bit sounded out of place and silly, but she couldn't bring herself to cross it out. She sealed it in an envelope and took it downstairs to the mailboxes. She labeled the envelope: Man with the Bright Red Socks. She dashed back up to her apartment, sat, and waited.

George looked at his typewriter. Why had he assumed he could fix it on his own? He felt a bit dizzy. His dear old, trusty typewriter seemed to look back at him with sadness. George thought it might be best to get some fresh air.



{Part 3 here.}

valentine's day.

I know some people think Valentine's Day is kind of silly, but I love it.
I hope yours is filled with chocolate, laughter, and a whole lot of love.

little snapshots.

1. A reminder next to my mirror. :)
2. My favorite candle, from Jeffrey.
3+4. Valentine sweets.
5. One of my favorite nooks in our home.
6. Heart-shaped sugar cookie from Jeffrey's grandma.
7. Homemade pillows.
8. One of my favorite books + our hats.

This weekend was quiet and relaxed, which was exactly what I asked for. On Friday, we went out for frozen yogurt with my good friend, Emily. On Saturday afternoon, I went thrifting with my sister. That evening, Jeffrey and I celebrated Valentine's Day early with Satchel's and a homemade cake. On Sunday, I spent the day at home, making a valentine for someone special, drinking tea, and having a leftovers picnic with Jeffrey. It was all quite perfect, as every weekend should be.

friday inspiration.

Friends, I am tired & this quote really makes me smile. Yesterday a good friend of mine went for a walk with me and just listened to what I needed to say. I am continually amazed by the kindness of those I am lucky enough to call my friends. Really, truly amazed. This weekend, I plan to do a lot of nothing. Oh, how even the thought of it makes me excited! And I think I might go to Starbucks. I hope you all have a very lovely weekend. xo, R.

*image.

a letter to my sixteen year old self.

Dear You (Me...),

In just a few years you'll be where I am right now. Sometimes it feels like it's only been a few days and sometimes it feels like it's been years and years. That happens to everyone.

Stay close with Mom and Dad. They will be the most precious friends and confidants you will find on this big, beautiful Earth. Ever.

Tell yourself you're beautiful. Everyday. Multiple times when it's necessary. You will go through a time in your life in which outward appearances mean a great deal to you. You'll get through it. Just remember it's all the inside stuff that really counts.

Never settle for someone who didn't pick you as the very first choice. You will find that someone who is a great friend has the potential to be so much more. Don't close yourself off. Don't hold yourself back. Be yourself and you will be recognized for it. Love freely and wholly and great things will come from that.

Take your academics seriously. Your commitment and dedication to schoolwork will take you far in life. Friendships and humility will take you even further. Hold tight to your best friend. She is the strongest anchor and the most kindred spirit that you will ever come across. Don't take it for granted.

Be happy with yourself. For as easy as it is to rely on others, it is important that you learn to rely on yourself. Learn to be independent. Do okay on your own.

When you're not okay on your own, lean on your sister. She is the single person who shares heartstrings with you stronger than anything else in this world.

In a few years, your life will be so magnificent, it might sometimes take your breath away. Just remember that you deserve it. All of it.

Be kind to others. Be loyal. Eat well. Take breaks. Get plenty of sleep. Laugh. Be ambitious. Follow your dreams. Chase your passion. Be thankful for all of it. And be thankful often. xo

*image.

orange blossom grove.

If you're ever in Florida and you like citrus, you have to (Have to!) try and find an Orange Blossom Grove. And if you happen to find one in the part of Florida you're exploring, then you must (Must!) get orange soft serve ice cream. It is the most wonderful, delicious, dreamy treat that ever was. Get it in a cone, too. That part's really important.

tampa theatre (richard thompson concert).

On Friday night, I had the honor of watching my dad play at the Tampa Theatre, which is a really magical place. He opened for Richard Thompson, a renowned musician. It was an incredible opportunity and one that we were all so proud to attend. I wasn't able to get any pictures of him on stage (he looked like a white blob), but I think that night will forever be engraved in my mind anyway. Every nook of the Tampa Theatre is filled with something beautifully ornate. It is the kind of place that one could go to everyday for a year and still stumble upon something different on each occasion. As my dad played his guitar and sung, my heart swelled with pride. It is such a joy to watch him perform, and it makes me feel so very lucky to be his daughter. Needless to say, it was a night I will never forget.

little snapshots (at home).

1. Back porch.
2. Squeezed oranges.
3. Toast with breakfast.
4. Orange juice + cute little bird.
5. A sweet furry critter.
6. Stained glass.

This weekend we went home. My dad opened for Richard Thompson (!) on Friday night, which was really exciting! On Saturday morning we had breakfast on the porch (with fresh squeezed orange juice) and spent time just doing nothing. It was absolutely wonderful.

friday inspiration.

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1. Perfect to pair with a white tshirt.
2. Hanging flowers.
3. Go On An Adventure.
4. The sweetest camera strap.

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Have a sweet weekend, friends! xo, R.