Preservation Awards 2013 Indian Rocks Beach

Front Row:  Valerie owner Cafe de Paris, Helen Tilston, Julie Hoofnagle, Mary Rose Holmes. Back Row, Eric Meyer President Acton 2000 and Julie Folden VP Action 2000.

The Plein Aire Cottage Artists' Prervation Award is given each year, around Arbor Day, to one business and one residence at Indian Rocks Beach.  This much coveted bronze plaque was revealed seven years  ago. 

Bronze Plaque

This year, Cafe de Paris was awarded.   This small business recently renovated and is a welcome haven for locals and visitors.  The macaroons, crepes and quiche are among our favourite items.

Oil Painting of Hoofnagle Home by Helen Tilston

 The Hoofnagle residence,"Idlewildcottage" which was been lovingly and carefully restored and given a new life both inside and out is the winner of the Residential Award.    The sunsets from the living room window are most memorable.

I am heading back to my easel to complete some overdue commissions.

Hope your week is very special

Singing, Dancing, Dining and Laughter

The paint box was forgotten for ten days.  British Airways transported the first guest from Palma Majorca.  Vancouver and Toronto flights descended to Tampa airport bearing precious merchandise.
The long time women friends had arrived. All cares were forgotten and all regressed to a time past,when we were in our early twenties, then working for a travel company.   I-pods were downloaded with the music of Abba, Boney M, Reggae, Calypso, Black eyed Peas and summer songs.

Dancing and more dancing

 Sandcastle building at Indian Rocks Beach

Lazing on the beach

Dining and more stories and "do you remember when?"

The week went all too quickly and souvenirs and memories were packed away as flights were called for boarding.   A promise to next meet in New York City  in 2014

I am taking a few days to indulge in the memories and stories.  I am very grateful to have such friends in my life.