Tidy Tidbits: A Melange

WILDLIFE One of the pleasures of living on the coast overlooking the water is having nature all around us.  Not only is it  peaceful, but I love seeing the variety of birds that live or find their way here:  Great Egrets, White Ibis, scaups and other ducks, wood storks, herons of several hues, white pelicans, …

Tidy Tidbits: Mothers & Meals

NOVEL PAIRING The Expatriates by Janice Y. K. Lee I really enjoyed Lee’s first novel, The Piano Teacher, and so approached her new one with enthusiasm.  It too is wonderful, but in a different way.  Set in the present rather than the past, it details the daily lives over the course of a year of …

Sarasota Scene: Music & Movies

HIGHBROW TO LOW BROW? In the final year of their Verdi cycle (performing all of Verdi’s music over a period of more than 25 years), the Sarasota Opera presented a beautifully staged Aida.  No live elephants, but gorgeous music, colorful Egyptian sets, good singing, and some lovely dancers.  It was a most enjoyable evening and the …

Tidy Tidbits: Mostly Books

DINING ON THE BEACH A venue for splurges, Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach has an unbeatable setting—literally on the beach—and a dining room that is charming even when filled to capacity.  And this chef delivers.  The food is delicious, something that isn’t always paired with a fabulous view.  We were with good friends and had …