The weather in this part of the country is different than what we are used to. With many passing clouds, there can be sun somewhere, but rain elsewhere. The winds can pick up, and you would swear rain was on the way. But all you get may be a light sprinkle. Unsettling might be the right word for it. Not exactly beach weather.
We actually took a break from writing yesterday, since nothing really exciting happened. Even on our second trip to Sawgrass Mills, we still have not seen the entire place. Yesterday, we explored the Colonnades, a separate unattached row of outlet shops and boutiques. They do connect to the West End at one point. These were the high end stores, where one of us scored with a neat shirt at Tommy B’s……1/2 off at that. Figuring that our 2 suitcases will be weighing a little too much when we fly home from Seattle, we purchased another piece of luggage at TJMaxx. They are made much lighter these days, compared to our older well-used bags.
While walking this huge mall, we noticed that many people bring an empty suitcase with wheels. All we can figure is that they use it like a cart to pack their purchases easier. The rent-a-carts are $7.00, so this saves them the price, and also works at the Target supermarket. They do have grocery carts there, but they will not work past the store entrance to the mall, as they lock up. You can access the parking lot, but that’s it.
Lunch was at California Pizza Kitchen at the mall. A very new restaurant, we ordered what we always have at home. And it was every bit as good as at our local CPK. Their pizza is among the best we think.
Today we began the morning with breakfast in our room. This has worked out well with yogurts, cereal, juice, and coffee. Just like we are at home. Then we went out after 10am. Searching for the nearest Publix, the local grocery chain, we found that even the hotel staff said there was none within walking distance. But then, they don’t know us. One of the desk gals mentioned that there was a fairly new grocery store, but it was a couple of miles up University. As long as we were not doing major shopping, that is not too far.
So this time, we wandered into The Fountains, another small outdoor mall on this stretch of University. This time we asked a local AT&T worker if he knew where Publix was, and he said up the street and turn right. It was hidden somewhat behind trees and back off the main road. We found what we needed, and more, and walked back to Chili’s for lunch. Now we are ready in case it rains, because we picked up two umbrellas.
The rest of the afternoon, we spent some relaxing time up on the roof at the pool. When the sun came out from behind the clouds, it was intense. However, there were more clouds than sun. It was still warm, but when the winds picked up, had we been wet, it would have been chilly.
What is really nice is having free internet that is really fast, compared to the ship’s service. That reminds us of a story we owe a friend, Konnie, who has inquired about our Macy’s story. Going back over 50 years when we were just starting out as a young married couple, the only credit cards we were familiar with were store cards. Those were Sears, Emporium (Capwells), Penneys, or Macy’s. Out of the four, Macy’s was the only one that denied us. Funny thing is that we never forgot that snub. Eventually, over the years, these cards became obsolete since the major credit cards worked everywhere. No reason to get that Macy’s card. So, we never did. End of story.
Bill & Mary Ann
New parking garage under construction at the hotel
Canals line Broward Blvd.
Muscovey ducks
Lake surrounds this building
Good place for ducks and geese
Pair of geese
