Snowbird Lifestyle, Cuisine, Entertainment and Travel
Here Vs. There: A Candid Case Study The Emotional Impact of Trading Proximity to Family for Full Time In Your Southern Community If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to live in your snowbird community full time, consider this case study of one …
Here Vs. There: The Top Question I Am Asked the Most Why Snowbirds Consciously Choose to Live In Two Places Curiosity about the choice to live in two places vs. one primary home are what I am commonly asked when the subject of being a …
-- Dory, "Finding Nemo," 2003 American animated comedy-drama adventure film produced by Pixar Animation Studios for Walt Disney Pictures
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Plan your travel bags so each person knows exactly how much space they are allotted for clothing, kitchen, bath, office and pet/s. Packing 101 Quick Tips for a Shorter Stay If you’re like me, packing is a pain and a task I have yet to …
Stinky’s Fish Camp, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida Starter Snowbirds An Analysis of Two Pre-Emerging Snowbird Couples While sitting around a firepit at our neighbor’s end of summer social gathering, the topic of retirement and possibly becoming a snowbird were of interest to two couples who …
At the end of summer when the weather starts changing and there's a lull in the seasons, it's the heart of the off season for snowbirds. I've found myself caught between the daily grind of my Northern home and planning ahead for the next snowbird season. It's not quite time to get caught up in the excitement of spending a winter away and there's still a lot to do to get to that point. Unfinished plans, unexpected commitments and personal goals are just a few of the barriers between now and the prospect of escaping to our beloved warm weather community. For me, bridging the off season gap is super important and I've found books to be therapeutic in many ways.
Books have always been a favorite past time and they bring many calming memories of reading by the lake, in the car as we travel or just sitting on the sofa in the evenings. Over the years I've collected local and regional cookbooks as well as beautiful coffee table books about my snowbird community. Each book is a prized possession because you can't just buy them anywhere. They are more special because they are exclusive to the southern community that we call home. Each one carries a memory: finding his and her local cookbooks in a charming downtown bookstore of the Walton County seat; browsing local books in The Henderson Park Inn's gift shop area after our anniversary dinner and shopping with the ladies in Seaside, a charming beach community of Northwest Florida.
I've included an overview of favorite books in my collection and I encourage you to find your own personal local and regional books. New and used book stores, gift shops, local markets, online and everywhere in between, there's an array of books just waiting to be found. Books are more than just bound paper with ink. They transform, inspire, calm, inform, provide history, stories and entertainment as well as solace no matter where you are.
One of the biggest comforts of either my Northern or Southern home are my growing collection of local and regional books. Each one is special with it's own story of how I acquired it. Not only do I purchase books for myself, I also look for books to leave behind for someone else to connect with and enjoy. I encourage each of you to find your own collection of meaningful books and share what makes them extra special.
Of the books featured in my collection, the most personally meaningful is "Florida's Emerald Coast, A Pathway to Paradise," because the author included two of my original graphics in the book. Robert Reynolds found my original map of Florida's Emerald Coast that I created specifically for my Midlife Snowbird blog and now the revised map is immortalized on page two of his latest book. Upon the author's request, I created a second map of Walton County Florida's rare coastal dune lakes and that map is featured on page 32 of Mr. Reynold's book. To say it is an honor is an understatement. I have read the first edition of "Pathway to Paradise" cover to cover and highly recommend Mr. Reynold's books for anyone who loves Northwest Florida and wants to know more about the "History, People Walton County Communities, Highway 30A and Nature."
Author: Kent Whitaker
Pages: 287
Photos: Yes
Publisher: Great American Publishers, Brandon, Mississippi
greatamericanpublishers.com
Overview:
Sizzling Starters
Serious Grilling
Something Extra
Introduction:
"My grandparents in Alabama and Mississippi grilled over pecan, charcoal and other woods. My dad mastered the art of campfire cooking and back yard grilling.... My career in culinary writing and writing cookbooks began after I won the Emeril Live/Food Network Barbecue Contest.... In this book I share with you 250 of my favorite recipes for grilling, barbecuing and tailgating. It is my hope that if nothing else, you will have FUN cooking from my book, and, of course, cook some great food. A common theme in my writing is history, and this book is no exception." -- Kent Whitaker
Author: Lucy Buffet
Forward by Jimmy Buffet
Pages: 264
Photos: Yes
Publisher: Grand Central Life and Style, Hachette Book Group, New York, New York
grandcentrallifeandstyle.com
Overview:
Cocktail Hour
Gumbo Love and Other Deep South Soups
Sassy Salads
Sandwiches and Such
Sweet Things
Party Favors: Dinner Party Menus
Introduction:
"LuLu's Kitchen is Lucy Buffet's culinary guide to classic Southern coastal cuisine and features more than 120 signature recipes from her famous Gulf Coast restaurants, LuLu's. The greatest passion of this self-proclaimed gypsy rebel and reluctant entrepreneur is cooking food for the people she loves.... She currently serves more than one million guests a year at her two LuLu's locations. LuLu's Kitchen is brimming with authentic family recipes, humorous stories and plenty of wit and wisdom."
Author: Eleanor Lynn Nesmith
Photography: Jean Allsopp
Pages: 221
Photos: Yes
Publisher: Design 360, llc, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
design-360.com
Overview:
A Place Called 30A
Santa Rosa Beach
Grayton Beach
Watercolor
Seaside
Seagrove
Watersound
Seacrest
Rosemary Beach
Alys Beach
Introduction:
"Along the Gulf Coast of Northwest Florida, a string of picturesque towns known collectively as 30A... offers a retreat. Featuring hundreds of images, 30A Living explores nine of the the colorful towns that enliven this unique twenty mile stretch of beach and takes a rare glimpse inside eighteen inspiring homes from Santa Rosa Beach to Alys Beach. From the outside these homes are remarkable... Step inside where design cues and details reflect the area's strong architectural traditions..."
Executive Editor: William Hagerman
Pages: 287
Photos: Yes
Publisher: Dunavant Gulf, LLC, Memphis, Tennessee
Overview:
Breakfast on the Beach
Beachside Picnics
Sunset Toasts
Starlit Dinners
Sweet Evenings
Introduction:
"What's exceptional about Henderson Park Inn is the unforgettable experience created by the snow white sandy beach, emerald Gulf waters, nature's preserve at Henderson State Park, and rustic manor of the Inn, which are complemented by the tasty foods at Beach Walk Cafe, and the other Great Destin Places that continue to provide a lifetime of warm memories for their guests... whom they call family."
Author: Kent Whitaker
Pages: 192
Photos: Yes
Publisher: Great American Publishers, Brandon, Mississippi
greatamericanpublishers.com
Overview:
Starters and Soups
Sandwiches
Seafood/Fish
Sides and Sauces
Introduction:
"Join renowned cookbook author Kent Whitaker on a tasty scenic journey along the five coastal states of the Gulf of Mexico... Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida. Along the way, experience some Gulf Coast history while reading profiles about beautiful places to visit in the area and enjoy expert tips.... Best of all, you will enjoy delectable southern seafood recipes... to please everyone."
Author: Robert O. Reynolds
Pages: 161
Photos: Yes
Publisher: Emerald Waters Press, LLC, Tucson, Arizona
emeraldwaterspress.com
Overview:
Early History
The Highway 30A Corridor
Walton County Communities
The Coastal Dune Lakes of Walton County and Choctawhatchee Bay
Plants You'll See on the Emerald Coast
Communities Along Highway 30A
State Parks and Trails on Highway 30A and the Emerald Coast
Creatures of the Emerald Coast
A Timeline of Events in the Development of the Emerald Coast
Life on the Emerald Coast and Scenic Highway 30A, Present and Future
Introduction:
"This book tells the story of Florida's Emerald Coast with an emphasis on Walton County, and roads including Scenic Highway 30A, an iconic road that has been important in the development of the region... You'll meet a diverse set of characters, the people who planned, developed and managed the range of communities contained in the story... I will discuss the rare and beautiful coastal dune lakes that help to make the region unique... Florida's Emerald Coast is a place that gets in your mind and makes you want to return, as I continue to do for cherished vacations." -- Robert Reynolds
-- Stephen King, American author
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
An example of prime beachfront property, the units are directly accessible to the sand at ground level. Miramar Beach, Northwest Florida. Beachfront, Ocean Front, Ocean View What to Know About the Nuances of Beach Rental Terminology Snowbirds looking for a place with “beachfront” in the …
Beautiful and simple butternut squash pasta with freshly grated parmesan cheese Cook Like a Pro The basics of cooking like a professional chef When it comes to cooking, I’ve found that snowbirds fall into two groups: the non-cooks and the foodies. I consider myself a …
Personally, I'm not a shopper. I'd rather do almost anything else than run to the store for something. Professionally, I've become adept at finding everything needed to furnish our vacation rental and have invested much time and thought in choosing every single item. Nothing was purchased or returned on a whim or without weighing the pros and cons of how that item fit into the rental property or not.
Many snowbirds own a vacation rental, second home, lake, desert or mountain home and/or simply want to know where to find the charming items stocked in their winter rental. That used to be me. Where did the owner acquire the rugs, pillows, lighting, accent pieces, furniture, artwork and outdoor patio set? Now I'm that person supplying these items and we've had guests ask, "Where exactly did the mattress come from and what is the specific model # of it?" A true compliment!
It's ironic that being a shopper in a professional capacity changes your outlook on what you are looking for. You are not only shopping for what you like, you are anticipating what your guests will like. It's not just the adults, you have to appeal to the teens and kids too. There's a mix of every personality staying in a rental unit, which means it's critical to identify the overall theme. I've written about this topic in another post [The Basics of How to Furnish a Vacation Rental Property] and it's important to get it right. A guy's rustic fishing trip kind of place is completely different than a ladies' luxury getaway or a romantic couple's retreat.
Everything needs to work together in a cohesive way and you have to know what the limits are. When is enough, enough? How much is too much to spend? Is good enough, enough? Is it time to stop shopping?
Your furnishings must not only look appealing, they need to endure wear and tear to get through at least one entire busy season. Value, quality and brands do make a difference for many items that need to last much longer than one season. Other items, such as bath towels and wash cloths need only meet your minimal standards because they will be replaced before showing lots of wear. No one wants to use a thread-bare towel or make-up stained wash cloth. This also applies to chipped dishes. Buy a moderately priced brand that will be available from year to year and replace every single chipped item. Tired, imperfect and dirty is what many guests have at home and they want to escape to fresh everything. Below, I will share where I shopped to furnish our vacation rental. Consider every possible bricks and mortar store and online resource to find the mix that works for you.
I love Walmart for anything where you only need the basics, large and small.
Home Goods is great for discounted prices on better quality close-out items
I also shopped regularly at Tuesday Morning for these same items, but unfortunately the retailer closed it's stores in 2023
Big box stores fill in a lot of gaps for practical household items
Thrift shops are ideal for pre-owned household items at a greatly reduced price. Typically, I drop off donations and then visit the shop to see if there's anything of interest. Thrift shop furniture is typically very well built if it's more than 20 years old and often will look fresh again with a new coat of paint.
Restaurant suppliers such as Gordons Food Service are great for commercial grade products that need to wear well for many seasons.
Amazon, Etsy and other online retailers such as Overstock and Wayfair offer practical specialty and unique items.
Surf shops are great for finding local items that add that extra special touch.
Let's be real, there's no need to pay for free driftwood and shells from your local beach. Buy the items that you can't find at the shore.
Local mom and pop retail or consignment shops, such as Retail Therapy in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida typically offer local products for a one-of-a-kind purchase.
Mattress Firm, Rooms to Go and local furniture stores have practical options at various price points for big ticket items.
National retailers such as Marshalls/TJ Maxx, Hobby Lobby, At Home, Kirklands, Five Below and other medium to large home stores offer items you might not find elsewhere.
Before Bed, Bath and Beyond closed stores in 2023, I shopped there as well.
You have to know when to edit yourself and stop shopping. If you can't do this on your own, ask a trusted friend or family member for honest feedback. No one wants to stay in a place that has too much of a good thing. If necessary, rotate your regular and seasonal accessories so returning guests feel there's something new to enjoy for their stay. Retire items that start to show a little wear, not after they are worn out or too dirty to clean. Never keep broken items, not only is it a safety hazard, it's unbecoming.
As a professional shopper, it can be fun, but it is a LOT of work. Pace yourself so you can think about each item and how it relates to what you already have. If necessary, return it or donate it to a local charity. I bought a charming $35 lamp with a sea-grass shade at Home Goods. Upon installing it in the rental unit's bedroom, it didn't quite look right. So I decided to paint it a coastal blue hue to blend in better with the decor. It still didn't look right and now it had an imperfect paint job. I felt it was time to retire the lamp. Letting go of the items that are not working for one reason or another is better than making a bad impression.
One more thing: don't forget to keep an eye on the trends. After a few years, it's important to replace dated items with fresher things, not because they actually are bad, just to keep ahead of or equal to your competition. Money can't buy happiness, but it can buy the large and small items that provide the extra special charm.
-- Gertrude Stein, American Novelist, Poet, Playwright, Art Collector [1874-1946]
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.