Where's everybody from?

[GraytonBound]

Reply & let me know if you're a local or a wanna-be like me. Just curious to see where everyone calls home :?:

[Tootsie]

From B'ham originally. I have been in Point Washington 8 years. 8)

[GraytonBound]

Where exactly is Port Wahington... I hear that name a lot. Is that where a lot of the residents live, as opposed to the touristy spots? Is it on the west side of 30-A? We stay mostly in the Seacrest area.

[GraytonBound]

oops. meant Point not Port :oops:

[RiverOtter]

I'm from Chattanooga :mrgreen:

[Anonymous]

We're stuck in Texas until we get our daughter in college. Then we're heading for SoWal. Purchased last year and it is terrible just seeing pics all the time!!!!!!!!!

Grew up in IL. Spent time in Eastern KY; Gainesville, FL; Wilmington, DE; and Fort Collins, CO ---- family is in IL though so it's sorta home.

Love SOWAL

[GraytonBound]

Wow, I'm beginning to feel like a big looser because I have only lived in Chattanooga my whole life. Did you purchase a house or condo? We are co-owners of 2 condos but are thinking of buying a house that we can rent out & maybe someday move into.

[Anonymous]

house in sea dunes, dune allen beach. We call it our Smurf house 'cause it has a very bright blue metal roof! Now when we visit, we just look at it and say "someday we'll be there instead of our tenants" :cry:

[GraytonBound]

At least you have a plan!

I'll have to look for the Smurf house on our next visit (which unfortunately will be a while- we've been there 4 times since June but no plans to return until next summer :(

hey Rita, you should "join" the group (instead of just lurking :lol: )

[Anonymous]

gotta come up with an avatar first. Will put my 13 yr old onto that as I'm nearly clueless! Everyone's got cool stuff so guess I'll see if I can get creative.
Any :idea: s? (Maybe i could be SMURFER GIRL?) :?

[Anonymous]

I love it....maybe a surfing smurf ?? that might be hard to find. If your 13YO is as creative as my kids he'll definitely outdo us though 8)

[kurt]

http://perso.wanadoo.fr/schtroumpf/image%20smurf/image%20liste%20de%20recherche/variante%20couleur/redsurf.jpg

[RiverOtter]

Good one Kurt.

[FoX]

Reply & let me know if you're a local or a wanna-be like me. Just curious to see where everyone calls home :?:

Sometimes I'm local. Like the avatar. 8)

[Oldtimer]

I live in Tampa, Florida, but am really from Georgia.

My grandfather and his four children built our house on the lake at Grayton Beach in 1956. It was way before anyone thought Grayton was "cool". It was just a quaint place to spend the hot summers, which we have done for all of my life. Our house was built to accommodate all the family --- cousins, aunts, uncles and my grandparents.

I love this board and check it daily. Of course I miss the beach cam, but I"m sure that Kurt is working on that.

[kurt]

I live in Tampa, Florida, but am really from Georgia.

My grandfather and his four children built our house on the lake at Grayton Beach in 1956. It was way before anyone thought Grayton was "cool". It was just a quaint place to spend the hot summers, which we have done for all of my life. Our house was built to accommodate all the family --- cousins, aunts, uncles and my grandparents.

I love this board and check it daily. Of course I miss the beach cam, but I"m sure that Kurt is working on that.

Hi Oldtimer !!! I hope that you will post "the old times" regularly. i enjoy hearing about the cows on the highway. :D

[GraytonBound]

Sometimes I'm local.

In the words of Bart Simpson...."coooool, a drifter"

[RiverOtter]

I live in Tampa, Florida, but am really from Georgia.

My grandfather and his four children built our house on the lake at Grayton Beach in 1956. It was way before anyone thought Grayton was "cool". It was just a quaint place to spend the hot summers, which we have done for all of my life. Our house was built to accommodate all the family --- cousins, aunts, uncles and my grandparents.

I love this board and check it daily. Of course I miss the beach cam, but I"m sure that Kurt is working on that.

Grayton before Grayton was cool, eh.. I'd love to see pics before all the growth :D

[GraytonBound]

I live in Tampa, Florida.


OT- We have considered moving to St. Pete, mostly because of the great high school (St. Pete High). Would be interested to hear your side of raising 2 boys in SoWal vs. St. Pete.

[Smiling JOe]

I'm from many places, making my home in every state from Florida to Maine. Currently, I am enjoying life in South Walton, although I am thinking about selling out and moving to Freeport.

[kurt]

I'm from many places, making my home in every state from Florida to Maine. Currently, I am enjoying life in South Walton, although I am thinking about selling out and moving to Freeport.

There you are. 8)

Hold out as long as you can. Although Freeport prices are rising fast.

[RiverOtter]

I'm from many places, making my home in every state from Florida to Maine. Currently, I am enjoying life in South Walton, although I am thinking about selling out and moving to Freeport.

What do you like about Freeport? :?:

[JB]

Tuscaloosa, Alabama 47 weeks a year. Blue Mountain Beach, Florida for the other five. Hoping to increase that total each year until the numbers are reversed :wink:

[GraytonBound]

Roll Tide!

I like your plan- wish I could stay there 5 weeks a year. 8)

[Smiling JOe]

I'm from many places, making my home in every state from Florida to Maine. Currently, I am enjoying life in South Walton, although I am thinking about selling out and moving to Freeport.

What do you like about Freeport? :?:


I like the idea of designing and building my own house, having it paid off, keeping cash in the bank, sense of community, being close to the Bay and the Beach. Freeport has much growing to do in order to develop a sense of community, but it will be there. I feel only hints of community in South Walton. The beach communities are too scattered, and there is no central place. I also am growing tired of the seeing the same people with different faces. SoWal is becoming a place where I see no diversity. I want and need some "real" people who are year-rounders. This message board is about as real as people get around here sometimes.

[BlueMountainBeacher]

I hop between Auburn, AL and Blue Mountain Beach..no real place to call 'home'. I'm an airforce brat, you see.

[JEANNE]

:roll: I am from Tallahassee but I grew up in Grayton Beach. My family has been going there for more than 60 years. I have a house in old Grayton now that I rent and use when it isn't rented. I would love to live there full time...but I'll have to wait for retirement.

[graytonrbust]

I am from Gadsden, AL. I grew up traveling to Grayton several months a year. My dad built a house on Garfield for a friend of his, so we still get to enjoy it, but not often enough. I live for the day that I can be there year round.

[Mermaid]

This is too good a post to let sink! Any new takers?

[luvthebeach]

This is too good a post to let sink! Any new takers?


I missed this on the first go-around!

I'm from St. Louis, Missouri, with one foot in Seagrove sand. Hope to eventually jump in with both feet permanently! Don't get to come down as often as I like..unfortunately work gets in the way most of the time...but I do try to make it down at least once every season. :wub:

My favorite time of the year is October, even though I've heard it said that's the worst possible time of the year to be in SoWal :laughing1

[Camp Creek Kid]

I grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. Married a Chattanooga native and lived there for 3 years, moved to Knoxville for 4 years (husband graduated from UT College of Veterinary Medicine), have lived here in SoWal for 4 years.

All my family is still out West, husband's family is in and around Chattannoga.

[Donna]

Native of Walton County and FSU alumni. We have lived in California since 1978, first in Newport Beach and then moved to the Napa Valley in 1990. Bought our Grayton house, Conch Out, almost four years ago. Came to California by way of Atlanta, GA and Denver, CO. I spent many happy times at Grayton Beach as a child and a teenager. Married a nice Yankee from Michigan, who is gonzo for Grayton Beach and he translates well, too.

[sarawind]

Georgia is my place of birth. Lived there 27 years then moved to Louisville, Kentucky. On to Los Angeles California then Conroe, Texas. Also lived in Birmingham and Andalusia, Alabama. Have owned a home in south Walton for 15 years and reside there 7 to 9 months out of the year. My legal residence is Texas but I live in Florida. My parents loved Panama City and we used to go there way back when. There were quonset huts left by the military, the Barney Gray motel, the Hangout and little else. It was heaven on earth. I need the sea. Am unhappy away from it.

[shakennotstirred]

I somehow missed this thread the first time as well. (Maybe my message board addiction is not as bad as I thought). I live in the suburbs of Pittsburgh. The past 8 years I've been living in the house that I spent the first six months of my life in - I guess I've come full circle. Have visited Destin/30-a area for the past 13 years every April & a few times in the dreaded month of October.

[jdarg]

Born in Louisville KY, left for awhile (Columbia SC, Lexington KY), have been back "home" since 1990. Had our 10 year Grayton vacation "anniversary" this year- before then, had not been to the Panhandle since high school, when the drinking age was I believe 18 and we thought it was a big woo-hoo to go to the Hogsbreath. I'll never forget seeing Grayton for the first time- breathtaking. I am now considered "inflexible" since going to other beaches is not an option for me right now, with limited vacation time and 2 kids. So now it's Grayton Beach every summer! Hoping to add Thanksgiving at some point, and maybe spring break.

[scarlet8]

I'm from North Mississippi. I have been coming to the panhandle of Florida since I was 3 mo. old. My parents had friends that own a motel Panama City
Beach. We came every year for two weeks. It was paradise and I would scream and cry when we had to come home. Sadly, I have heard that this year thy are tearing down our motel for a condo. Sure do miss tha old Florida. Since I have been an adult,we have been staying in the 30-A area.
I have fell in love with the place and wish that I could be a local. Thanks to
all of you, I can keep in touch with the area all year long. Keep up the good info and God Bless.

[skippertoo]

Hello everyone !

My first post (just found this site in the past week) :D . I am from Huntsville Alabama and now live in Midtown Atlanta. Been visiting the beach two weeks (May & October) each year since 1987 Sure has changed a lot in Seagrove in all that time. I met my wife on the beach in Seagrove :wub: and we were married on the beach in 1997. She lived in Atlanta so that is how I ended up in Georgia. We bought a lot (On B Street) in Seacrest 4 years ago (should have bought more !) so we have a place to build when we retire in about 10 -12 years.
This is a great forum and I look forward to reading it now with my other daily reads :D . I will be trying some new places to eat as well thanks to the posts I have been reading.
Thanks for the great pictures and information !

Skip

[Miss Kitty]

I remember reading this back in my 'lurker' days! My how far we have come!
I was born and raised in Houston. We vacationed in Biloxi at the Broadwater Beach each summer. Met my Illinois boy at SMU, we married and stayed in Dallas. Started coming down to the area in 1986 and have been back every year since. Bought our place in WaterColor in 2001, (pre-construction) and try to get down 4 times a year. Counting down the days...21!...for my month long stay! I'm a lucky, lucky girl!

[DD]

Native Texan...Only came to SoWal a few years ago..(maybe 10). Fell in love with Seaside the first time, but Dune Allen is really my fave. IF I ever end up there, it will probably be in Destin, simply because I will probably have to work until I go to the nursing home--LOL! Seriously, those of you that are fortunate enough to have a history in SoWal are so fortunate. It's a wonderful, magical place..................

[bothcrows]

Augusta, Ga

[dbuck]

Western Kentucky. We do have beautiful Kentucky Lake, but it's not the ocean. Have been vacationing in the Panhandle for 25 years. I will never forget the first time we ventured off Hwy 98 and went down 30A. Went through Seaside and came upon Blue Mt. Beach. Heaven, pure heaven on earth. You all are so lucky. INVU

[alic65]

I was born in California, but raised in Southeastern Missouri, where we live now. My whole family is from this area, beautiful lakes and rivers. My hubby's family is from a small town between Jefferson City, Mo. and Columbia Mo.

[Miss Kitty]

I was born in California, but raised in Southeastern Missouri, where we live now. My whole family is from this area, beautiful lakes and rivers. My hubby's family is from a small town between Jefferson City, Mo. and Columbia Mo.

Did I tell you my son is in Columbia....soph at MIZZOU!!!

[alic65]

I've seen you post about your son at Mizzou, great school.

[lollygal]

I was born in Texas (Liberty and Beaumont), lived there for 8 years, then moved to Louisiana (Lafayette and Alexandria), then on to Montgomery, AL and finally rested in Chattanooga. (No, my dad was not in the service -- he worked for Amoco Oil in the butane/wholesale division).

[njackie]

We are from Missouri, we graduated from MU as did our children. We bought one tiny condo in Seagrove many years ago and one larger about five years ago for all those grandchildren! Seagrove is where our hearts always are even though we are only there in June, October (dreaded month) and December/January!

[Bob]

Born in D.C., moved to Florida at 6 months. Parents born and raised in the District after families moved from Virginia farmlands during Depression. Wife born in Chattanooga, parents born/raised in Atlanta. First saw 30A[1998] thought "lived in FL. all my life and never knew the best beaches were here". Wife/myself dislike Orlando and will soon move north to go South. Own dirt in SoWal, may build, but, like SJ said, the area lacks a central community feel.

[Hollibird]

Born and raised in Baltimore, MD. Moved to St Pete about 6 years ago. Loved Tierra Verde as a neighborhood, but as soon as you get into south St.Pete...keep your doors locked. Grayton bound, the schools are horrific, at least they were when I lived there for 2 years. some South St. Pete kids made it hard for the rest of the school...girls attacked in the bathrooms, shoes being stolen, etc. The main reason we moved away was because of the schools. we love it here in Destin. great schools, and even prettier than St. Pete.

[Camp Creek Kid]

Born in D.C., moved to Florida at 6 months. Parents born and raised in the District after families moved from Virginia farmlands during Depression. Wife born in Chattanooga, parents born/raised in Atlanta. First saw 30A[1998] thought "lived in FL. all my life and never knew the best beaches were here". Wife/myself dislike Orlando and will soon move north to go South. Own dirt in SoWal, may build, but, like SJ said, the area lacks a central community feel.

Not to break up these posts--I'm liking that everyone is straight and to the point. If y'all notice, this thread was started November 2004. SJ made his comments about "no community feel" almost a year ago. I'd venture to guess that he feels a little bit better about things now. In fact, a think that there was a thread recently about the fact that "the community" was starting to form. One problem is that most all locals here have been here for less than five years. It took me awhile to realize that I wasn't an "outsider" because everyone was new and everyone felt like and outsider.

I think the community feel of SoWal has increased as the real estate frenzy has dissapated.

Bob, we'd love to have you around here full-time.

Now back to hearing where everyone is from . . .

[beachmouse]

I was born and grew up in Grand Rapids, MI, then went to school at times in Albion, MI (Io Triumphe!) Washington, DC, and Ann Arbor. Got married and we spent a couple of thoroughly miserable years in Martin, TN, then Mr. Mouse got a job offer that would get us the heck out of Tennessee, which turned out to be here. We've now been here since 1998, first living down on Okaloosa Island (two bedrooms a block from the public access and a slight ocean view for $615/month) and then we bought in Bluewater in 2001.

Seems like every day I have a moment where I feel really lucky I get to live here.

[OnMackBayou]

Born in Houston, lived in St. Louis (briefly) then Chicago and Lake Geneva area for 12 years. Since the late 80's thought Naples would be where Ms. Bayou and I would end up.

Then had a little bayouette in Chicago 5 yrs ago and began looking for the perfect place to raise a family. All over California we looked (loved Ojai and Santa Barbara), North Carolina (Wilmington area was our fave) back to our native Texas (Houston or Austin) and back to Florida, (still thought it would be Naples).

Thought we'd seen everything there was to see in Florida until we began talking to a friend at a wedding in Texas. He raved about Destin and the beautiful aqua waters. Came down the next week and stayed at Sandestin. It was love at first sight. Moved here four months later. Bought a home on
1 1/2 acres on Mack Bayou, and one in Sandestin.

We too were worried about the lack of a community center feel to the area. When I need a fix for that I drive to Panama City. After walking around downtown for about 10 minutes there I run back to the car and swiftly return home. Do that every four months or so.

[luvthebeach]

This is too good a post to let sink! Any new takers?

What a great idea you had in resurrecting this thread Mermaid! :clap_1:

This has been interesting and fun! :lolabove:

[Smiling JOe]

I somehow missed this thread the first time as well. (Maybe my message board addiction is not as bad as I thought). I live in the suburbs of Pittsburgh. The past 8 years I've been living in the house that I spent the first six months of my life in - I guess I've come full circle. Have visited Destin/30-a area for the past 13 years every April & a few times in the dreaded month of October.

I truly love you guys!

[sandyfeet]

I am from Weldon Spring, Missouri. (Originally a Southern Illinois girl.) My first visit to your area was approximately six years ago. White sand must be magnetic; I've been drawn back there just about every year since. (Twice this year!)

[luvthebeach]

I am from Weldon Spring, Missouri. (Originally a Southern Illinois girl.) My first visit to your area was approximately six years ago. White sand must be magnetic; I've been drawn back there just about every year since. (Twice this year!)

:welcome:
You live near one of my favorite areas.....the Augusta wineries! My very favorite is Montelle...we spend nearly every Sunday there in October! I love enjoying the beautiful view, sipping wine, nibbling on cheese & fruit, listening to the music (especially the guy who does Jimmy Buffett...can't think of his name at the moment!) :clap_1:

[sandyfeet]

I am very close to Augusta. It's been years since I've been there. I know, I should be ashamed living so close and all. I haven't been up in the Arch in a while either!

[Miss Kitty]

I am very close to Augusta. It's been years since I've been there. I know, I should be ashamed living so close and all. I haven't been up in the Arch in a while either!

That seems to be the way it goes sandyfeet. I've lived in Dallas full time since 1976 and am proud to say I have never been to SOUTHFORK! Okay, once...it was for a charity event and it was dark and I didn't take the tour!!!!

Mermaid...you are one smart cookie for bringing this back! And kudos to GB as well for starting it in the first place!

[Cil]

I thought I posted to this thread or something like it before, but perhaps that was back in the early mists, before Kurt changed to the V-bulletin format.

I was an airline brat; my timeline has me bicoastal (NY>NorCal>NY) before third grade, then in Denver, Colorado for high school.

Regardless, I *always* missed the beach. Two years ago, spouse and I visited the area and fell in love with it, but no job materialized.

Now he has the job and October 15th is our target date to leave Denver and head for Port St Joe.
Won't be SoWal but it's a lot closer than the high desert of central Colorado.

What OnMackBayou says here:
Thought we'd seen everything there was to see in Florida until we began talking to a friend at a wedding in Texas...
...is, I think, true of many people, and when we say we are moving to Florida, they immediately think of the Florida they know, which is Orlando or the southeast coast.

[iwishiwasthere]

I am from a small town south of Nashville, but often believe we will eventually move to SoWal area. Since we no longer have children at home, it will be easier to do.

[ktschris]

I was born and raised in St. Louis. Went to school in Eugene, OR (Go Ducks). After college, I moved to Medira Beach Florida where I met my husband. Then we moved back to St. Louis. Started out going to Fort Walton area for vacation, but 1 year (about 6 years ago) on a rainy day we started driving and ended up on 30A - haven't been back to Ft. Walton since. Love Seagrove. I was a "registered lurker" for about a year before I started posting. Now it seems, it's hard to stop!!

[bluemtnfriend]

Reply & let me know if you're a local or a wanna-be like me. Just curious to see where everyone calls home :?:
West Tennessee, get down to Blue Moutain area about once a month for 3 or 4 days. Would love to stay longer, but have Little Leaque and basketball playing grandchildren that we have to cheer on.

When we do get to spend more time, will be looking for volunteer work as I don't play golf or tennis.

[Rita]

We're stuck in Texas until we get our daughter in college. Then we're heading for SoWal. Purchased last year and it is terrible just seeing pics all the time!!!!!!!!!

Grew up in IL. Spent time in Eastern KY; Gainesville, FL; Wilmington, DE; and Fort Collins, CO ---- family is in IL though so it's sorta home.

Love SOWAL


Above is my post before I came out of lurkdom.
I grew up in SE Illinois (Oblong), lived different towns around IL (went to EIU and Uof I), moved to Jackson, KY and later to Gainesville, FL; Wilmington, DE (beautiful area!); Fort Collins, CO (wanted to stay there); and now we're settled in Arlington, TX.

One thing we've found about moving a lot is that if you want to make it work and be happy, that's what happens! :D

[Rita]

Not to break up these posts--I'm liking that everyone is straight and to the point. If y'all notice, this thread was started November 2004. SJ made his comments about "no community feel" almost a year ago. I'd venture to guess that he feels a little bit better about things now. In fact, a think that there was a thread recently about the fact that "the community" was starting to form. One problem is that most all locals here have been here for less than five years. It took me awhile to realize that I wasn't an "outsider" because everyone was new and everyone felt like and outsider.

I think the community feel of SoWal has increased as the real estate frenzy has dissapated.

Bob, we'd love to have you around here full-time.

Now back to hearing where everyone is from . . .

CCK - I noticed that too and thought the same as you. This message board also does wonderful things to help with that community feeling, even for those of us who are not there. YET! When I get there, I want to hook up with the Beach to Bay and Turtle Watch groups.

[Ocean Lover]

[QUOTE=sandyfeet] White sand must be magnetic; I've been drawn back there just about every year since. QUOTE]

I think it's the sand and the water! We used to vacation in the Sanibel area but two years ago my husbands side of the family rented a big house on the gulf in Seacrest and now there's no reason to go anywhere else! We prefer being a little closer to Grayton so we like to stay in Seagrove. I've lived in Ohio all my life but would love to live near the ocean or gulf someday. My parents live in The Villages north of Orlando. Great place for them but not close enough to the gulf for me. Go Bucks!

[Lois]

... being close to the Bay and the Beach. Freeport has much growing to do in order to develop a sense of community, but it will be there. I feel only hints of community in South Walton. The beach communities are too scattered, and there is no central place. I also am growing tired of the seeing the same people with different faces. SoWal is becoming a place where I see no diversity. I want and need some "real" people who are year-rounders. This message board is about as real as people get around here sometimes.

I'm from Bath, England and have spent time in NY, DC area, Atlanta, Seagrove and now Freeport. I love it here but also miss the community spirit. Both sets of grandparents had neighborhood pubs and it was great growing up amongst the "regulars", I love going back to visit "where everybody knows your name."

SJ .. we plan on hosting a Christmas party and inviting all of our diverse Freeport neighbors, would love to have a fellow Guinness drinker along.

Cheers!

[Smiling JOe]

I'm from Bath, England and have spent time in NY, DC area, Atlanta, Seagrove and now Freeport. I love it here but also miss the community spirit. Both sets of grandparents had neighborhood pubs and it was great growing up amongst the "regulars", I love going back to visit "where everybody knows your name."

SJ .. we plan on hosting a Christmas party and inviting all of our diverse Freeport neighbors, would love to have a fellow Guinness drinker along.

Cheers!

Just let me know when and where, and what I should bring. :D

[Ocean Lover]

http://sowal.com/bb/gallery/files/4/8/3/PICT1656.JPG OT..but SJ, do you know what kind of butterfly that isin your avatar ....it's the same kind I photographed while I was there.

[Beach Boy]

I am originally from Miami, Florida, but currently call Suwanee, Georgia home (it's about one hour northeast of Atlanta). My father's family's roots go back a long way in Walton County and that's why it has been so nice to own a place at Seacrest Beach - kind of like a part of my heritage. We really enjoy the ocean, sunsets, bike riding and the people we've met. This message board is great to keep up with what's happening in the area.

[Lois]

Just let me know when and where, and what I should bring. :D

Sure will .. I know Christmas will be here before we know it, but I'm determined to get this party together so that we can finally meet those neighbors of ours.

We'll be in touch.

[Rita]

http://sowal.com/bb/gallery/files/4/8/3/PICT1656.JPG OT..but SJ, do you know what kind of butterfly that isin your avatar ....it's the same kind I photographed while I was there.


It's a Gulf Fritillaria on a Lantana sp.

Defuniak Springs group website is http://www.dfsgardenclub.org/wildlife/butterflies.htm

We have Fritillarias here in TX that love Mistflowers (Eupatorium sp.)!

[Mermaid]

We've called Indianapolis home for the last ten years, but we spent the previous ten years in Atlanta. That's where I found out about the Panhandle. One Sunday in 1987 the Atlanta Journal-Constitution had a article about Seaside in the Travel section and I took one look at the photos and said "That's where I want to go!"

It was the beginning of a beautiful relationship. ;-)

[drsvelte]

MrsSvelte and I are both from Pennsylvania and met while students at Penn State. We spent five years in Knoxville before moving to Baton Rouge about 27 years ago.

We first visited this area when I did the old Elephantwalk Triathlon back in the late 1980’s. We came back every year for that event until we decided to purchase a townhome in Sandestin about 8 years ago. I was a bit concerned about the $150 per sqft price, :shock: but have since learned to live with it! We have four dogs that we bring with us so last year we sold our townhome and bought a cottage with a fenced yard.

We normally visit 6-8 times a year, including October (somebody has to perk up the local trade during that grim time :biggrin: ) This past summer we were able to stay for six weeks in July and August – wonderful.

[Smiling JOe]

It's a Gulf Fritillaria on a Lantana sp.



Rita is on top of it, and she is, not surprizingly, correct. I saw a few others around the yard today including a Gray Hairstreak and a Common Buckeye.

[Miss Kitty]

Rita is on top of it, and she is, not surprizingly, correct. I saw a few others around the yard today including a Gray Hairstreak and a Common Buckeye.

SJ and Rita can become our SoWal Nature Teachers!!!

[GraytonBound]

:clap_1: :clap_1: :clap_1: :clap_1: :clap_1: :clap_1:


Just noticed this thread started up again. Kurt, you've got a lot more members now than you did back on Day 3 :cool: :cool:

Thanks for resurrecting it guys

[Smiling JOe]

SJ and Rita can become our SoWal Nature Teachers!!!
I try to learn as I go. If I don't know something, I often seek to find out more.
A great pocket sized book, National Audubon Society - Field Guide to Florida (http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/067944677X/ref=sib_dp_pt/102-2589274-1553728#reader-page), is a wonderful source for native plants and animals. It has many color photos and decriptions to help identify things. I know Sundog Bookstore in Seaside Carries the book. It is usually on one of those table displays near the checkout.


OOPS! Wrong thread.:doh:

[beachmouse]

We first visited this area when I did the old Elephantwalk Triathlon back in the late 1980’s. We came back every year for that event until we decided to purchase a townhome in Sandestin about 8 years ago.

Are you still doing tris? I've gotten into them in the past couple of years.

[Miss Kitty]

I try to learn as I go. If I don't know something, I often seek to find out more.
A great pocket sized book, National Audubon Society - Field Guide to Florida (http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/067944677X/ref=sib_dp_pt/102-2589274-1553728#reader-page), is a wonderful source for native plants and animals. It has many color photos and decriptions to help identify things. I know Sundog Bookstore in Seaside Carries the book. It is usually on one of those table displays near the checkout.


OOPS! Wrong thread.:doh:

That's fine SJ...this thread needed a tangent break!!! I plan to pick up that book to use INDOORS during Oct. Way too many dangers lurk outdoors that time of year!!!!!

[jdarg]

I try to learn as I go. If I don't know something, I often seek to find out more.
A great pocket sized book, National Audubon Society - Field Guide to Florida (http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/067944677X/ref=sib_dp_pt/102-2589274-1553728#reader-page), is a wonderful source for native plants and animals. It has many color photos and decriptions to help identify things. I know Sundog Bookstore in Seaside Carries the book. It is usually on one of those table displays near the checkout.


OOPS! Wrong thread.:doh:


We bought this guide at Sundogs years ago- and it is packed every year! It is what identified the eastern glass lizard this year! We have never found a critter in Grayton that wasn't in the book.

[Beachfamily]

I am a native NY and my husband is from NJ. We lived in Palm Beach, Fl for about 18 years. And now we currently live in Alpharetta, GA.
We visited 30A about 4 years ago and we love it. We owned in Seacrest and Destin and try to get down as much as possible

[RiverOtter]

I was born in The Nooga, Raised in The Nooga, Still Live in The Nooga ... I guess one might say I'm a http://smiley.onegreatguy.net/loser2.gif

[UofL]

From Louisville. We follow the Cards around the country to different places each year, but there is one place we go to each year - Grayton Beach, the beginning of June. We bring our bicycles and ride every morning. Love sitting on the porch and looking out toward the water. Hope to add another week some day, when I get more vacation. If we live long enough to retire, can't wait to come down for a month or two in the fall or winter. Don't think we will move down there, but if we did, it wouldn't be very close to the water - couldn't afford it. Even if we were 10 miles away, it 's closer than the 10 hours we are now. We will be in Tampa in 1 1/2 weeks with other UofL fans for football. So glad that South Florida is in the Big East with us. That's an extra Florida trip for a few days, every other year. It's not 30A, but it's a gulf fix.

[SlowMovin]

Louisiana (BR/NO), then Atlanta, now permanently in Freeport (well..."permanently" unless and until our Cat 5 comes through, anyway).

[Paula]

I was born and grew up in Grand Rapids, MI, then went to school at times in Albion, MI (Io Triumphe!) Washington, DC, and Ann Arbor. Got married and we spent a couple of thoroughly miserable years in Martin, TN, then Mr. Mouse got a job offer that would get us the heck out of Tennessee, which turned out to be here. We've now been here since 1998, first living down on Okaloosa Island (two bedrooms a block from the public access and a slight ocean view for $615/month) and then we bought in Bluewater in 2001.

Seems like every day I have a moment where I feel really lucky I get to live here.

Beach Mouse, we've lived in Burns Park in Ann Arbor since 1989. When did you live in Ann Arbor? We bought our place on SoWal in 2003 and love it.

We do feel a sense of community, in part because of this board and in part because we have some very nice neighbors in our community who we run into regularly and can seek out when we're there. Over time, we'd like to find more friends for our girls when we're there, but they're starting to bring their own friends.

And even our renters bring a sense of community. One very kind renter said "We're coming down to the cottage next week, is there anything you need that we can bring for you?" How nice is that!

[beachmouse]

I went to grad school there from fall 1994 to spring 1996. Spent a year living near campus, then another one living on the west side of town off Pauline because I could find a bigger and cheaper place out there. I loved living there.

I miss Zingerman's. I miss the old Borders back when it was just one giant store instead of a chain and before it moved to where Jacobson's was. I miss coffee shops on every corner, and being able to walk everywhere once you park your car. I miss being able to get CBC on my cable tv. I miss Meijer's and last weekend, Mr. Mouse and I were discussing how we really wished there was a Belle Tire down here because Sears kept trying to upsell and add charges on everything for tires for my Corolla.

However, I'll never miss the seven annual months of slush. And with the minor league Ice Pilots in Pensacola and the right Directv package, I can still get my hockey and Red Wings fixes.

[Paula]

Beachmouse. What grad school were you in? I'm at the Business School and teach in Public Policy as well.

Pauline's a nice area. Our choices for places to live in Ann Arbor when we moved here were Burns Park or Old West Side (which I believe is where Pauline is) -- nice old homes with a lot of character (and a lot of ongoing maintenance needed, our's was built in 1912). Things haven't changed too much in Ann Arbor since you were here. Still busy during the school year and quiet during the summer.

You can get Zingerman's online when you have a craving -- fantastic coffee cake (that's what we send the staff at our rental management company every Christmas as a thank you), cheese, bread, etc. It is an awesome (and expensive) place. Fortune magazine rated Zingerman's as having the best bagels -- even better than the Carnegie Deli in New York. It's still a zoo to try to get a sandwich there, though.

I bet you don't miss the traffic on football days.

[CastlesOfSand]

Born and raised in Plano, burb of Dallas. We always spent time in South Padre as a kid, my parents had no idea what they were missing (30-A). I have always been drawn to the ocean. You know what I mean! Met my husband in High School (if you can believe that)!! We dated for 10 years then decided it was time to tie the knot. Several years ago my husband suggested we head for Seagrove beach for our summer vacation (God I love him) and the rest is history... We are hooked. We were there in July and are headed back the first week in October (hmmm... can't wait to see what the big deal is about October :lol:) Our kids love it too, except for the drive (we have 3). I think we'll probably end up with a place there to stay and rent out some day in the near future. My husband found this site over a year ago and showed it to me... now he just laughs and asks "hat's going on in Florida today?" :rolling:

Thanks guys, nice to know ya!

Lisa

[CastlesOfSand]

Spell check that was suppose to say "What's going on in Florida today?" :cool:

[Diane4145]

I am originally from Miami, Florida, but currently call Suwanee, Georgia home (it's about one hour northeast of Atlanta). My father's family's roots go back a long way in Walton County and that's why it has been so nice to own a place at Seacrest Beach - kind of like a part of my heritage. We really enjoy the ocean, sunsets, bike riding and the people we've met. This message board is great to keep up with what's happening in the area.
Hey BeachBoy, know of anyone in Seacrest, or anywhere in SOWAL for that matter, that might have a property for rent? I live in Seagrove Beach with one of my sons and need my own place. My son, that just returned from overseas and is now out of the Army, might live with me, at least for awhile. I'm only needing it for 4-6 mos., as I might relocate to ATL.

[beachmouse]

I was a public policy underachiever. Probably should have worked for a year or two after undergrad to clarify what I wanted to do rather than jumping right to grad school. I was either the first or second graduating class after they seperated out from Rackham.

As for Zingerman's it was their sandwiches I loved, and I'm not sure how practical it would be to ship sandwiches, even with dry ice and next day delivery.

[Smiling JOe]

Hey BeachBoy, know of anyone in Seacrest, or anywhere in SOWAL for that matter, that might have a property for rent? I live in Seagrove Beach with one of my sons and need my own place. My son, that just returned from overseas and is now out of the Army, might live with me, at least for awhile. I'm only needing it for 4-6 mos., as I might relocate to ATL.

From the rental thread:

New!!! 2 bedroom 2 bath home in quiet neighborhood in Santa Rosa. short walk to bay, short drive to Grayton Beach…granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, cool concrete flooring in main areas. Please email us at
jaylaurie.weber@mchsi.com

[Paula]

I was a public policy underachiever. Probably should have worked for a year or two after undergrad to clarify what I wanted to do rather than jumping right to grad school. I was either the first or second graduating class after they seperated out from Rackham.

As for Zingerman's it was their sandwiches I loved, and I'm not sure how practical it would be to ship sandwiches, even with dry ice and next day delivery.

I didn't start teaching at Public Policy (now the Ford School and they're getting a new building) until around 2001. I enjoy it. A lot of people in graduate school don't know what they want and try to figure it out while they're there. Sometimes it works, sometimes they have to try another way. (I was an exceptional underachiever until my 30s...).

[bsmart]

I'm from many places, making my home in every state from Florida to Maine. Currently, I am enjoying life in South Walton, although I am thinking about selling out and moving to Freeport.


let me know when you want to sell, and send me property info.

[bsmart]

Oh and by the way I have lived in Atlanta, GA all of my life. After Law school I hope to move to South Walton to practice environmental and land use law.

[Ocean Lover]

After Law school I hope to move to South Walton to practice environmental and land use law.


:cool: :clap_1:

[Johnrudy]

Born and raised in Baltimore, MD. Moved to St Pete about 6 years ago. Loved Tierra Verde as a neighborhood, but as soon as you get into south St.Pete...keep your doors locked. Grayton bound, the schools are horrific, at least they were when I lived there for 2 years. some South St. Pete kids made it hard for the rest of the school...girls attacked in the bathrooms, shoes being stolen, etc. The main reason we moved away was because of the schools. we love it here in Destin. great schools, and even prettier than St. Pete.
I have to agree with you on the school system in the St. Pete, Clearwater and all the central area of FL schools in general. (AND the locked doors in So. St. Pete, too!!) Not to be a downer, but they truly are horrific. By the time our son was 3, we moved to Chicago area only for the school system. The public schools here are awesome by comparison. Once the high school years are over, then, we'll move back to FL, but NOT to St. Pete/Clearwater (icky beaches!!!!!). It will be the Sowal area or Pensacola.
(BTW, we always wondered why Clearwater Beach got that name because the water was never clear!!)

[southof30A]

Oh and by the way I have lived in Atlanta, GA all of my life. After Law school I hope to move to South Walton to practice environmental and land use law.
How do you feel about the recent National Energy Policy and oil and gas development in general?

[Bob]

Not to break up these posts--I'm liking that everyone is straight and to the point. If y'all notice, this thread was started November 2004. SJ made his comments about "no community feel" almost a year ago. I'd venture to guess that he feels a little bit better about things now. In fact, a think that there was a thread recently about the fact that "the community" was starting to form. One problem is that most all locals here have been here for less than five years. It took me awhile to realize that I wasn't an "outsider" because everyone was new and everyone felt like and outsider.

I think the community feel of SoWal has increased as the real estate frenzy has dissapated.

Bob, we'd love to have you around here full-time.

Now back to hearing where everyone is from . . .I'm sorry, I guess my observations are invalid. I mistakenly thought of 30a as a resort area. Where is the center of "town"?

[SlowMovin]

I'm sorry, I guess my observations are invalid. I mistakenly thought of 30a as a resort area. Where is the center of "town"?
I think you just opened a can of worms...

The Seasiders vs. The Graytons, with occasional sniping from the Blue Mountain, Seagrove, Seacrest and Rosemary contingents, tonight on Pay-Per-View. :biggrin:

PS--The above was meant in fun...don't everybody go gettin' all flamey on me.

[kurt]

I'm sorry, I guess my observations are invalid. I mistakenly thought of 30a as a resort area. Where is the center of "town"?

You are standing in it! (probably sitting aren't you?) :lol:

[Smiling JOe]

I think you just opened a can of worms...

The Seasiders vs. The Graytons, with occasional sniping from the Blue Mountain, Seagrove, Seacrest and Rosemary contingents, tonight on Pay-Per-View. :biggrin:

PS--The above was meant in fun...don't everybody go gettin' all flamey on me.


:popcorn:...

[Miss Kitty]

:popcorn:...

Ow Ow Ow...I want a front row seat!!!! Preferably in the center of town!

[kathydwells]

Hello everyone !

My first post (just found this site in the past week) :D . I am from Huntsville Alabama and now live in Midtown Atlanta. Been visiting the beach two weeks (May & October) each year since 1987 Sure has changed a lot in Seagrove in all that time. I met my wife on the beach in Seagrove :wub: and we were married on the beach in 1997. She lived in Atlanta so that is how I ended up in Georgia. We bought a lot (On B Street) in Seacrest 4 years ago (should have bought more !) so we have a place to build when we retire in about 10 -12 years.
This is a great forum and I look forward to reading it now with my other daily reads :D . I will be trying some new places to eat as well thanks to the posts I have been reading.
Thanks for the great pictures and information !

Skip

I am from Huntsville also. I live in Lacey's Spring, AL now 4 miles South of Huntsville...where did you go to high school?

[kathydwells]

I truly love you guys!

Back at you SJ!!!!!:wub:

[aquaticbiology]

In order:
Cullman, Alabama; Panama City Beach, Florida; Houston, Texas; Galveston, Texas; Lajolla, California; San Diego, California; Euclid (Cleveland), Ohio; Panama City Beach, Florida; Homosassa, Florida; IVAN!; Cullman, Alabama; Rebel Yell, Mississippi.

Same order as NCSL contracts (clue!).

Sea ya!

[JT]

My wife and I are close by in Cobb county GA. We are soon to be transplants. We want to come down there full time soon. Cant wait to leave the busy town of ATL for a little bit of the beach life. :lol:

[Bob]

You are standing in it! (probably sitting aren't you?) :lol: That was far too creative and correct as an answer. But I thought you might say town center was Eden Gardens, where all high-budget frog horror movies are shot.

[kurt]

That was far too creative and correct as an answer. But I thought you might say town center was Eden Gardens, where all high-budget frog horror movies are shot.

:lolabove:

Just went on a nature walk through there yesterday - had a picnic that was to last an hour and ended up staying about 4 - a beautiful day and no bugs.

I love this description from Amazon:

Millionaire Jason Crockett (Ray Milland. No, really. Ray Milland) hates frogs. Naturally, he lives on an island estate in the middle of a big Southern swamp. His family also hates frogs, so much so that they clap their hands over their ears and scream about the horrible, horrible noise. Everybody joins in spraying toxic chemicals around, little realizing that these frogs are not just moist, they're mad. Hopping mad. The family gathers for Grandpa's annual birthday celebration, unaware that doom is hopping toward them on wet, flapping feet. The point is driven home with shot after shot of the frogs hopping... hopping... hopping... and occasionally being tossed by a helpful stagehand. Actually, the whole swamp is mad--snakes, snapping turtles, and even crocodiles- -which is really for the best because the only thing the frogs seem to have in the way of menace is that hopping thing. One by one, family members go flailing into the swamp, never to return, while those still in the house watch death hop closer. Frogs is almost as remarkable for the sartorial issues it brings up as the environmental ones. Why is everyone wearing sweaters with blazers in Florida in July? How did Joan Van Ark manage to find an outfit that combines the practicality of hot pants with the beauty of a terrycloth jumper? Will Ray Milland ever be able to get the slime off that bright white suit? And still, the frogs hop closer...

[OhioBeachBum]

... And still, the frogs hop closer...
So - they shot this around SJs place? ;-)

[kurt]

So - they shot this around SJs place? ;-)

4300 hops away.

[Bob]

4300 hops away.Frogs II-Death of the Real Estate Flippers!!!! The frogs are angry. First they bloody their noses hitting the FSBO sign. The next week, the sign moves, it's now a Realtor sign. These obstacles spell war, and someone will pay....Michael Brown

[TooFarTampa]

I have to agree with you on the school system in the St. Pete, Clearwater and all the central area of FL schools in general. (AND the locked doors in So. St. Pete, too!!) Not to be a downer, but they truly are horrific. By the time our son was 3, we moved to Chicago area only for the school system. The public schools here are awesome by comparison. Once the high school years are over, then, we'll move back to FL, but NOT to St. Pete/Clearwater (icky beaches!!!!!). It will be the Sowal area or Pensacola.
(BTW, we always wondered why Clearwater Beach got that name because the water was never clear!!)

The school system in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties has changed in the last 5 years or so, and there are some excellent educational opportunities. Graytonbound, if you are still interested in St. Pete High, I hope it's because your children are bright enough (of course they are! :biggrin: ) to attend St. Pete High's International Baccaleaureate program, which is outstanding. The kids at SPHS who do really really well are IB, and maybe band members or swimmers. The school itself probably isn't all around outstanding, but it has a decent sense of community.

The Pinellas schools in general have a lot of magnet programs, and there is widespread school choice, so if you do your homework and get lucky you can get a great education. However, I'll say that while the schools seem to be better than they were when I was growing up, it's still a bit of a cr*pshoot and I'd choose the private school I went to. Pricey though. :shock:

I am pretty sure that Newsweek's list of excellent schools is very narrowly chosen. Has to do with IB and AP programs and such. If your child is capable of doing well in those programs it's not a bad idea to go by the list.

And as for having to lock your doors ... is there anywhere you don't have to anymore? :idontno:

[TooFarTampa]

From the above message you can probably guess I'm from St. Pete. Hubby and I met at UF and lived in California while he was in the Marines, then went back to St. Pete for 6 years. A job transfer took us to Massachussetts for a year, and when we came back we settled in Tampa.

We love Tampa and can't imagine wanting to go back to St. Pete. Lots more young professionals here.

We are/were some of those dreaded "investors," thanks to a tip from a good friend of ours. Drove up one weekend and found a great lot in Seagrove, 50 yards from a walkover. :wub: That was two years ago. Now we own a house in Seacrest with two other couples. We come up every chance we get, and plan to hold onto the Seagrove lot as long as possible so we can build our beach dream house. We bought in for purely financial reasons but we are staying for all the reasons you would expect. :wub:

We love the feel of 30-A and hope that it soon will have a few more of the amenities like you see in Sanibel/Captiva, once our favorite regular vacation spot. I'm sure it will get there in a couple of years.

Hardly anyone from around here knows anything about 30-A. Seaside is just a dot on a map to them; most around here head to Sanibel or Marco Island or Boca Grande.

[kurt]

We love the feel of 30-A and hope that it soon will have a few more of the amenities like you see in Sanibel/Captiva, once our favorite regular vacation spot. I'm sure it will get there in a couple of years.

What are they?

[ShallowsNole]

A DVD of "Frogs" should be included in the closing papers for sales in any of the new subdivisions cropping up around Point Washington - particularly the new one being planned that backs up to the state park property on the "old road" to PW (watch out for spiders!). :biggrin:

[TooFarTampa]

What are they?

Oh, it's really not much, but they do have restaurants and shops scattered throughout the area. We don't have a lot to choose from on the east side of 30-A yet. It will be nice (and I speak mostly of that side of 30-A) to have a number of places to eat that know you are going to be there when you come back. For example, we loved going to Luna Del Mar. :( Rosemary and Seacrest are sort of dead from a shops and food standpoint. I'm sure that as the area matures that will change.

[Smiling JOe]

Oh, it's really not much, but they do have restaurants and shops scattered throughout the area. We don't have a lot to choose from on the east side of 30-A yet. It will be nice (and I speak mostly of that side of 30-A) to have a number of places to eat that know you are going to be there when you come back. For example, we loved going to Luna Del Mar. :( Rosemary and Seacrest are sort of dead from a shops and food standpoint. I'm sure that as the area matures that will change.

I doubt that you will see much increase in the number of restuarants in So Wal in the next three years. Get ready to drive to Freeport. Land is too expensive, help is too expensive, and too much work for the profits. Most restauranteurs will not have enough cash in the bank to withstand the growing period from start to 2 years down the road. That is the primary reason why 90 percent of all new restaurants fail within the first 12 months.

[SlowMovin]

The new Shades at Rosemary Beach is pretty good. Nice bar.

[pk305]

Missouri originally. Nashville since 1971. Soooooo excited to soon be having a place on 30a!!! Just 3 more months!!! In the meantime, though have secured a nice lot in Freeport, just in case we ever need a back-up plan!!

[TooFarTampa]

The new Shades at Rosemary Beach is pretty good. Nice bar.
Thanks for the rec! :clap_1:

[Diane4145]

:clap_1: Smiling Joe, have you tried the Old Florida Fish House and Bar, between Seagrove and Seacrest? It's fairly new, located on Eastern Lake just over the bridge, on the left. My son Russ is one of their best servers, if I do say so myself! Anyone wanting a server that is very attentive and will provide a wonderful dining experience, should ask for him. If you forget his name, just ask for the big muscular, goodlooking guy, that recently returned form overseas!

One of the owners, also owns Harbor Docks and it's GREAT too! They have unbelievable Sushi and I didn't even care for it, before. The atmoshere is very unique, food's superb, resort casual(have seen people in shorts and T'sl), wall waterfall and more! I haven't heard of anyone, that wasn't extremely pleased! Alot of people are thrilled, to have such a FANTASTIC Restaurant E. on 30A! :welcome:

I doubt that you will see much increase in the number of restuarants in So Wal in the next three years. Get ready to drive to Freeport. Land is too expensive, help is too expensive, and too much work for the profits. Most restauranteurs will not have enough cash in the bank to withstand the growing period from start to 2 years down the road. That is the primary reason why 90 percent of all new restaurants fail within the first 12 months.Re: Where's everybody from?

[Smiling JOe]

No, I have not eaten at the Old Florida Fish House yet. Maybe one day I will make my way down there.

[Landlocked]

Originally from Jax, Fla then uprooted transplanted to Alabama.

[seagrovelover]

The new Shades at Rosemary Beach is pretty good. Nice bar.
we ate at shades in July, I belive it had just opened.....we sat outside and had good food and a really great waiter!!! good time for all (game room for the kids) :clap_1:

[skippertoo]

Hi Kathy,

Love Huntsville and my parents still live there in old town. Miss Big Eds Pizza too. Did not go to High school in Hsv. Went to Lyman Ward Military down in Camp Hill Alabama near Auburn... WAR EAGLE !

Skip

[kurt]

No, I have not eaten at the Old Florida Fish House yet. Maybe one day I will make my way down there.

Maybe a good spot for the first in the "Smiling Joe restaurant review series"?

[Smiling JOe]

Maybe a good spot for the first in the "Smiling Joe restaurant review series"?

Maybe.

[tamara]

Born and raised in Nashville, TN. Usually make it down to the beach at least 2-3 times a year but this year haven't been at all. :( A couple of years ago some of the locals thought I lived there I was down so much. Hoping to get down in Oct....but it might be next April or May. Thanks for all the pics.

[Miss Kitty]

Born and raised in Nashville, TN. Usually make it down to the beach at least 2-3 times a year but this year haven't been at all. :( A couple of years ago some of the locals thought I lived there I was down so much. Hoping to get down in Oct....but it might be next April or May. Thanks for all the pics.


More posting, Tamara, will help that beach withdrawal! Welcome a(message)board!!!

[Rita]

:welcome: We're hoping to go in October too!

[DTinTexas]

Hey, we should have a DFW happy hour in SoWal in October. I will be there too!

Donna

[kathydwells]

Hi Kathy,

Love Huntsville and my parents still live there in old town. Miss Big Eds Pizza too. Did not go to High school in Hsv. Went to Lyman Ward Military down in Camp Hill Alabama near Auburn... WAR EAGLE !

Skip

My sister lives in Five Points..I love that area. I LOVED Bid Eds Pizza.....we used to go there after football games! ROLL TIDE!!! :biggrin:

[seagrovelover]

Born in St. Louis, got married and moved to Imperial which is just south of stl, but more room to breathe!!! We have a lake house in cuba Mo, about an hour west down highway 44 towards the lake of the ozarks. If I could live anywhere else it would be SOWAL or Tennessee......vacationed in a cabin in the smokies and really loved it, I would move there tomorrow!!!! hmmmmm then I could visit the otters :clap_1: :clap_1: ;-) ;-)

[tamara]

More posting, Tamara, will help that beach withdrawal! Welcome a(message)board!!!


Thanks. I must confess I am a lurker. Will try to do better!

[tamara]

:welcome: We're hoping to go in October too!
Haven't been down since last October. We never saw the sun shine while we were there but had a good time anyway. Hoping to make in down next month to enjoy that beautiful weather I have had all the other times in October.

[Miss Kitty]

Thanks. I must confess I am a lurker. Will try to do better!

Been there, done that....but now I am free at last!

[Miss Kitty]

Haven't been down since last October. We never saw the sun shine while we were there but had a good time anyway. Hoping to make in down next month to enjoy that beautiful weather I have had all the other times in October.

WOW...there's going to be quite a lot of SoWal parties in October! I'll start another thread soon so we can put down our dates. We could have a happy hour every weekend so no one misses out!!! What day would be best. This could be like hearding cats, so we need our locals to guide us!!!

[tamara]

WOW...there's going to be quite a lot of SoWal parties in October! I'll start another thread soon so we can put down our dates. We could have a happy hour every weekend so no one misses out!!! What day would be best. This could be like hearding cats, so we need our locals to guide us!!!


Looks like the only dates that are hopefully going to work for me are around the weekend of the 21st of October. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I am able to make it.

[tropicwatch]

Panama City since 1967, Pensacola before that and Gainesville was place of birth. A native, what do you know.

Tropicwatch (http://tropicwatch.info)

[Gypsea]

Born in South Carolina but raised in Maryland. Met my future husband at Annapolis. After he proposed and told me that we would me moving to Pensacola for flight school, I asked him if Pensacola had hurricanes and he said ("No, they only have those in the Miami area"). I have learned that guys will say anything to get their girl and I guess I was having a blonde moment because I believed him! The day we moved into our apartment (30 years ago) Hurricane Eloise was coming right towards us - I have never seen movers move so quickly - they just wanted to get out of there. Since then we have lived in Corpus Christi, Tex.; Jacksonville; Brunswick, Maine; the Azore Islands; Monterey, Ca.; Lake Ridge, Va.; Bath, Maine; Severna Park, Md.; Fort Lauderdale; and now we divide our time between Pittsburgh, Pa. and Watercolor.
In all of our travels we have never seen beaches as beautiful as those of 30-A. I believe that SoWal has a great sense of community. What brings everyone together is their love of the area and the people are the THE best!
Go Navy, Go Steelers!

[Miss Kitty]

Born in South Carolina but raised in Maryland. Met my future husband at Annapolis. After he proposed and told me that we would me moving to Pensacola for flight school, I asked him if Pensacola had hurricanes and he said ("No, they only have those in the Miami area"). I have learned that guys will say anything to get their girl and I guess I was having a blonde moment because I believed him! The day we moved into our apartment (30 years ago) Hurricane Eloise was coming right towards us - I have never seen movers move so quickly - they just wanted to get out of there. Since then we have lived in Corpus Christi, Tex.; Jacksonville; Brunswick, Maine; the Azore Islands; Monterey, Ca.; Lake Ridge, Va.; Bath, Maine; Severna Park, Md.; Fort Lauderdale; and now we divide our time between Pittsburgh, Pa. and Watercolor.
In all of our travels we have never seen beaches as beautiful as those of 30-A. I believe that SoWal has a great sense of community. What brings everyone together is their love of the area and the people are the THE best!
Go Navy, Go Steelers!


What year was it that you moved to Pensacola? We have good friends that lived there as well and he went to flight school. They stayed at our WC place last fall and went over to Pensacola and had so much fun reliving their memories, and seeing some of their old haunts still standing!

[Dabell]

Ok, I was born in Mass. Moved to Long Island when my mother was having my sister. Lived with My mother's Mom and Dad, Italian family here. Talk about Food? I can make the best gravy and meatballs you ever had! Fish dishes to die for! Nothing comes close!

[Kimmifunn]

Born in Bham...went to Auburn for 5 lovely years. Moved to NY for an internship. Internship turned into a job for 2 years. Job turned into a nightmare (think Devil Wears Prada). Moved to Sowal for 4 months to regain my senses, now back in NYC.

[Dabell]

Born in Bham...went to Auburn for 5 lovely years. Moved to NY for an internship. Internship turned into a job for 2 years. Job turned into a nightmare (think Devil Wears Prada). Moved to Sowal for 4 months to regain my senses, now back in NYC.

where in NYC?

[Kimmifunn]

Manhattan. Just moved into my apartment (shoebox) in the West Village this past weekend!

[Dabell]

Manhattan. Just moved into my apartment (shoebox) in the West Village this past weekend!

Nice! I love the city! was thinking about buying something in the city or right off the Brooklny bridge. Yes! I know it would be a shoebox" but You can't beat it ANYWHERE!

[Kimmifunn]

Nice! I love the city! was thinking about buying something in the city or right off the Brooklny bridge. Yes! I know it would be a shoebox" but You can't beat it ANYWHERE!

Where do you live on Long Island? I went out to a concert at Jones Beach a few weeks ago. It's so nice out that way!

I used to work for an agency and we did Love Heals and Super Saturday out in the Hamptons. We also did a few movie premieres out there. I wish I could afford to go out there for personal reasons...not always work!

[Dabell]

Where do you live on Long Island? I went out to a concert at Jones Beach a few weeks ago. It's so nice out that way!

I used to work for an agency and we did Love Heals and Super Saturday out in the Hamptons. We also did a few movie premieres out there. I wish I could afford to go out there for personal reasons...not always work!


I'm in South Massapequa about 9 blocks from the beach. Never go to the beaches here. I rather just go for the weekend to Sowal. Hamptons is about a hour drive from me ( going 80) I really like East Hampton the best. South is OK. My work takes me all over NY and FL. My studio is in Bellmore ( right off the Meadow Brook pkwy).

[Beachlover2]

Chicago suburbs and Wyoming. Spent the 70's in Wyoming during my sweet rebellious period. Loved the skiing and outdoors and mountains until I got old enough and realized that going 2 weeks straight with a high of -10 was just not natural - no matter how pretty the snow is.

Mountains are beautiful - but now after getting older and realizing the damage I have done to my knees by skiing - I think swimming in a warm gulf is much better. Trying to work our way down there full-time - but have elderly parents to worry about right now - Welcome to the sandwich generation!!!!!!

[Dabell]

It's not about where you are in life, it's about where you go!

[Miss Kitty]

It's not about where you are in life, it's about where you go!


And I'll be going in 11 days!!!! Woo Woo!!

[Dabell]

And I'll be going in 11 days!!!! Woo Woo!!


Yeah OCT 1 2 3 4 5th!

[iwishiwasthere]

Loved the book. Really funny and entertaining, unless it is your life. Glad you changed. Enjoy the city for me.

[Gypsea]

What year was it that you moved to Pensacola? We have good friends that lived there as well and he went to flight school. They stayed at our WC place last fall and went over to Pensacola and had so much fun reliving their memories, and seeing some of their old haunts still standing!



Sueshore, my husband (a native of Hot Springs, Ark; USNA Class of 75) started flight school in September of 1975. It is fun to go back to Pensacola to relive those memories. It is also worth the drive to take the family to see the National Museum of Naval Aviation. What is your friend's name and what year was he in Pensacola? If it was around the same time there is a good chance that they know each other.

[Paula]

Ok, I was born in Mass. Moved to Long Island when my mother was having my sister. Lived with My mother's Mom and Dad, Italian family here. Talk about Food? I can make the best gravy and meatballs you ever had! Fish dishes to die for! Nothing comes close!

Where in Mass were you born? I lived in South Hadley, Western Mass, (near Holyoke, Springfield, Northampton, Amherst) for the first 21+ years of my life. I still go back there a few times each year to see my sisters and a few childhoold friends. Half of my family's Italian, too. My father came to the US from Italy when he was about 18 years old, met my mother, and stayed here. I can cook some pretty good home-made ravioli that melt in your mouth. We have them every Thanksgiving before the turkey.

[Dabell]

Where in Mass were you born? I lived in South Hadley, Western Mass, (near Holyoke, Springfield, Northampton, Amherst) for the first 21+ years of my life. I still go back there a few times each year to see my sisters and a few childhoold friends. Half of my family's Italian, too. My father came to the US from Italy when he was about 18 years old, met my mother, and stayed here. I can cook some pretty good home-made ravioli that melt in your mouth. We have them every Thanksgiving before the turkey.

Boston, moved when I was about 1. I love Ravioli! I need to make it with wheat flour ( better for ya).