A Day in Pictures

Dave and I got moving early yesterday before the rest of my family was up and about (since we're five hours ahead of everyone in terms of internal biology). We went to the Three Coins Diner, a favorite breakfast spot of mine that I've mentioned on the blog before.

Here's Dave about to go inside, those three fluffy pancakes calling his name. One good thing about the Three Coins is we never have to wonder whether or not it's open -- because it always is.

This guy sits beside the cash register. Very old Tampa, with its cigar-industry references. Cuesta-Rey cigars used to be made in Tampa.

After his pancakes and my broccoli-cheese omelette, we headed back to Lutz, passing this ridiculously colorful building on the way. How could I not stop for pictures?

Talk about positive energy! I think it's a screen-printing company.

Back at my stepmother's, we were met by my brother and his family, who drove down from Jacksonville and are staying at a hotel downtown. All of us spent the day together, chatting and exploring the docks and lakefront. We got lunch from the Publix deli and ordered pizzas for dinner. There's not a whole lot of cooking going on this Christmas. I'm not even sure my family is having a Christmas meal -- my stepsister and her husband are planning a party instead. I think Dave and I are on the fence about whether we want to stay for that or head down to see his parents in Bradenton.

Elvis, my brother-in-law and stepsister's cat, is indifferent...

...as is his companion, Ozzy. They are the softest, plushest cats I've ever encountered in my life!