happy halloween.

My favorite holiday is here, my pretties. What do you have planned? Since I don't have any kids to drag trick-or-treating, I think I'll make some chicken soup, carve a pumpkin, and cozy up on the couch with Hokus Pokus and a bowl of candy. It's good to be home.

spooky treasury.

I just made a little Etsy treasury devoted to Halloween. Check it out.

pier.

The other night after an oyster-heavy happy hour, we strolled (and skated) our way over to an old fishing pier to watch the sun set. We sat at the end and watched as several big fish corralled a school of smaller fish into a tight, dinner-ready mass. Bon appetit.

lifeguard shacks.

ringling.

Yesterday we went to the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. The Ringling Bros. have close ties to the city — they moved their winter quarters there in 1927, drawing famous circus families and artists from around the world until it became known as Circus City. John Ringling was one of the wealthiest men in the country back in the day, and it shows with his incredible collection of art that includes plenty of old masters and contemporary stuff, too. My favorite exhibit was probably the collection of old circus posters, but the museum's grounds, including the Ringling's Ca' d'Zan mansion, was the best part of the whole experience.

gulf sunset.

One of the best things about being on Florida's gulf coast are the sunsets over the water — a rare treat for East Coasters.

The beaches on Siesta Key are pretty phenomenal — powdery white sand, crystal clear water, and the weather has been perfect. There's also been some great people watching. Already we've seen three weddings and countless men in Speedos (for some reason, a lot of Europeans seem to vacation here).

road trip.

The past few days we've been prepping for our big trip to Florida. It's an eight hour drive, but I'm actually kind of looking forward to spending some quality time with Todd. My road trip essentials: a camera (for capturing random roadside eccentricities), embroidery thread for friendship bracelet making, gummy worms, and a pillow and blanket for nappage. Not shown: Where's Waldo app for iPhone (my new obsession) and books on tape (by Anne Rice, David Sedaris, and Tolkien). What are your road trip essentials?