Readers, I hope that you and your families are in good health and remain so throughout this dangerous and frightening time. Travel plans have been cancelled, disrupted and put on hold for millions of people around the world due to the Covid-19 issue. We will travel again but for now
the only things that matter are the safety and health of all and the economic viability of affected communities so that things can get back to normal or a “new normal” quickly.
John and I live in southeast Florida, USA and over the years we have experienced the loss of electricity and the internet for weeks at a time in the aftermath of devastating hurricanes. As a result of those uncomfortable and disconcerting experiences we have come to appreciate both the “visible” and “invisible” workers who are ensuring that our environment remains as safe and normal as possible in these difficult times. We are blessed to have electricity, the internet, access to supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations and some restaurants. We are able to keep in touch with our family and friends, keep up to date with the news, eat flavorsome food and yes, be entertained while we stay at home.
John and I thank all of the wonderful and dedicated people who continue to care for the ill and do their jobs to keep our world running. We offer our sincere gratitude and prayers for the well-being of our frontline Healthcare workers, First Responders (Police, Fire & EMS) and their Emergency Dispatchers and to the all too often “invisible” workers in utilities, gas stations, supermarkets, pharmacies, food/medication suppliers, transportation and restaurants. Thank you, go raibh maith agat (Irish), grazie mille (Italian), diolch (Welsh) and merci (French) to all who continue to work for the benefit of our societies.
One thing that we can do if finances permit, is to utilize on-line and phone ordering, delivery and takeout services of the businesses that have had to close their doors to walk-in customers. Hopefully, doing so will provide an income stream especially to family-run and small businesses.
Two of our favorite local restaurants are:
Thick & Thin Restaurant & Pizzeria
Both are offering takeout and delivery services at present. Perhaps you have a favorite restaurant that would appreciate your contacting them for a takeout or delivery order.
Today John and I were able to get another delicious takeout meal from Thick & Thin and we thank the owners and staff for remaining open for delivery and takeout and smiling while doing so! So, if you’re looking for terrific pizza and some delicious Italian dishes check out Thick & Thin. Un grande grazie a (a big thank you to): Catherine, Joe, Daniela, Al, Pio, Patty, Sarah, Jimmy, Victor, Gio, Christian, Leo, Johnny, Claude, Scott, Bruno and Larry. We’re always delighted to see our friends at Thick & Thin and look forward to the day when we can once again dine in your family’s restaurant.
When we’re in the mood for barbecue, we head to Mississippi Sweets to enjoy some of their tasty meals. Owner Randy greets all who enter with a big hello and his staff follows suit with pleasant and professional service. To Randy, the chefs and staff to include Alanna, Ally, Amy, Ashley, Edie and Michelle we say thank you!
Fishing Pier 
Teresa 
Alligator 
Airboat 
Wood Ducks 
Everglades
While practicing “social distancing” John and I were able to visit the Everglades and take these photos the other day. They are a reminder that our world is beautiful and one day soon we hope, we will all be able to be out again with family and friends visiting the lovely areas near our homes.
Readers, in future posts I will write more about the lovely sights, hotels, B&Bs, restaurants and shops we know and frequent in the USA, Ireland and Italy. But for now, I hope that you all remain safe and calm.