A Spectacular Winter in Central Florida ☀️🏍️🌴
We’re back in our favorite Central Florida retreat—Lake Wales—for the heart of winter, and once again, it did not disappoint! This year, we brought the motorcycle, making our rides to P & J Recreation even more fun. And of course, we couldn’t resist their famous slaw burger—a must-have treat! 🍔
Simple Joys & Sunset Magic 🌅🍦🐐
Our days were filled with small-town charm, from visiting the local ice cream shop to spending time with the adorable goats (Leonidas was a big fan! 🐾). Evenings were just as magical, with breathtaking sunsets and the twinkling glow of Christmas lights, thanks to the festive RV community.
Reconnecting with Friends & Finding Community 🤗🏡
One of this season’s highlights was reconnecting with Nikki and Darren, friends we met in Kentucky. They stayed at the resort for a week, giving us time to catch up on life, travels, and our shared dream of finding the perfect homestead.
I also found a new favorite yoga class, where I met the most incredible friend, Mel, and her husband, Jeff—both retired police officers from Canada. Mel’s resort classes were fantastic, but we also attended themed sessions at Bliss Yoga in Lake Wales, including a succulent workshop and a wine & chocolate session—talk about a fun twist on yoga! 🧘♀️🍷🍫
Holiday Traditions & A Special Tattoo Surprise 🎄🍽️🖋️
Christmas brought a sweet surprise with homemade cookies from Minnesota, a heartwarming reminder of home. We also kept up our beloved prime rib tradition with Mark and Karen—this time at their gorgeous new home in Punta Gorda. The trip led to delicious stops like Pioneers Pizza and Fisherman’s Pier, topped off with a nostalgic stroll through the neighborhood Christmas lights in their classic ‘46.
But the most exciting adventure? Finally getting my long-awaited tattoo! By pure fate, the Minnesota artist I had followed for years opened a shop in Clearwater—it was meant to be! Four hours in the chair (ouch! 😬), but the result was beyond worth it.
New Year, New Adventures 🎉🥂💪
As we rang in the New Year, Nick and I doubled down on our health & fitness goals, taking advantage of Florida’s mild winter with daily walks. But don’t worry, we still balanced it out with plenty of great food and drinks! 😆
✔️ Birthday Dinner at my favorite Italian spot 🍝
✔️ Sugar Sand Distillery & Turn2 Brewery in Sebring 🍸🍺
✔️ Secret Gardens Winery—a hidden gem with a peaceful escape & stunning view 🍷🌿
Sun, Surf & Some Unexpected Gems 🌊🍹🍜
No Florida winter would be complete without a beach day, so we made our way to Vero Beach for some sun & surf. Another favorite ride? Cherry Pocket, a quirky local dockside bar, perfect for a laid-back afternoon. And speaking of hidden gems, we found an amazing Thai restaurant in Winter Haven—totally worth the 45-minute drive for our Thai food fix! 🍜🔥
All in all, this winter in Florida was nothing short of spectacular. It’s hard to imagine spending these months anywhere else—Lake Wales truly feels like home this time of year.
Until next time, Florida! 🌴☀️🚐
