Local Girl Loving Southwest Florida Again
Some weeks remind me how much I love where I’m from.
This one was filled with simple things that somehow felt big: sunrise coffee at home, sunsets on the boat, a fresh update in the dining room, and trying something new just a couple hours away.
Being born and raised here means I can forget how special Southwest Florida is until I slow down enough to notice it again.
AROUND TOWN
Wednesday Dinner at Clase Azul
Midweek dinner out always hits differently.
We went to Clase Azul, one of our favorite local spots when we want something fun, flavorful, and a little lively in the middle of the week. Sometimes breaking routine is the reset.
Our Order: Skinny Margarita, Tableside Guac, Queso Birria Tacos, Mar y Tierra Buritto (the size of Jeremy's arm LOL)
Friday Night Out on the Boat
Jeremy and I packed a little charcuterie, headed out on the boat, and watched the sunset. Time to sunset cruise is a sure sign Summer is coming and our schedules are opening up.
One of the best things about living here is how easy it is to turn an ordinary Friday into something memorable. We truly do live in paradise.
WHAT I’M DRINKING
Sunrise Coffee at Home
Lately I’ve been obsessed with making coffee at home with my Philips Espresso Machine. It makes mornings feel slower, easier, and honestly better than a coffee run.
There’s something about sitting outside with coffee while the sun comes up that reminds me to appreciate where I live.
Shop the setup:
WHAT I’M WEARING
The Denim Shorts I Finally Found
Florida girls know the hunt for good denim shorts is real.
I recently found the Levi’s Cinch Waist Shorts and I’m officially obsessed. Lightweight, breathable, flattering, and comfortable enough for real heat.
These are the kind of shorts you actually keep reaching for.
Shop the look:
AT HOME
Dining Room Refresh
Sometimes one piece changes everything.
We recently updated our dining room rug, and the whole room instantly felt warmer and more complete. I’m always reminded that thoughtful changes usually matter more than dramatic ones.
Shop the refresh:
HOSTING MOMENTS AT HOME
Boat Charcuterie
A charcuterie board on a boat just feels right.
Easy to eat, elevated, and way more fun than random snacks tossed in a cooler. This is one of my favorite real-life uses for Grazing Haus boards.
Whether it’s a sunset ride or a full boat day, boards make it feel like an occasion.
Order your next board:
WEEKEND ADVENTURE
Swimming Horses in Bradenton
We went to C Ponies in Bradenton and had the most incredible experience swimming horses in the bay.
As someone who grew up a horse girl, this felt like a dream.
The horses were happy and healthy, the staff was so friendly, and it was fun for every experience level. We did the 5 PM ride, which I highly recommend for the best light and cooler temps.
Only about 2 hours from Cape Coral, making it the perfect little adventure.
10/10 recommend.
THIS WEEK’S FEELING
You don’t always need a vacation to feel grateful for where you live.
Sometimes it looks like:
- sunrise coffee
- dinner out midweek
- a better rug
- sunset on the boat
- trying something new nearby
There’s a lot to love when you pay attention.
See you next Monday.