Posts Tagged With: Florida

Schatzti + The String Boffin

Posted on September 23, 2014 by erikamae82

I’m thankful to say that my schedule has been so packed with glorious events, that I’m a bit behind in the blog routine. To catch up, I’m going to wrap up my return to Florida with an entry based on the live music I enjoy so much.

First up, the gorgeous Dannica Lowlerly and her talented brother Ben Parsons. Together they perform as Schatzti + The String Boffin.

Translation:
Schatzi [shaht-see] German slang – darling; sweetheart.
Boffin [bof-in] British slang – scientist; technical expert.

Mom and I were pleased to catch them at this small venue especially considering that they just opened for the Rascal Flats!

You know when you’re watching a band and you think, “I bet those guys are fun to hang out with” or “I wonder if they’re always that happy”? Well, those are not only thoughts but a reality with this duo. Genuine smiles and relaxed energy flow as they share their magnetic sound.

My dark photos and lack of audio certainly doesn’t do them justice. For quality pics and samples of their unique sound, please check out www.dannicalowery.com

More music? Who could it be but none other than some of my favorite guys doing what they do best. I know I’ve included them in several posts, but for good reason. Not only do they produce entertaining music, but their message vibrates a positive feel-good time. Each personality in this group balances out the band we all know and love… Heritage!

It was our first time to this venue called Club La Vela, a popular night club that promotes a daytime pool party on the weekends. I suppose it’s an easy way to chill with friends while listening to good music and cool off in the hot Florida sun.

Remember sweet Jodi from the tour last year seen in “A man becomes what he thinks about”? The first picture is from that journey followed by one on this day. Love her!

Mom, I feel like I don’t tell you enough how much I appreciate you not only as a mother, but a friend (and dance partner!). All of these shows just wouldn’t be the same without your company. Thanks for be the perfect date. Love you!

Categories: Art, Uncategorized | Tags: Club la Vela, Florida, Grayton bar, Heritage, live, Music, Schatzi and The String Boffin | 1 Comment

4th of July… Santa Rosa Beach style

Posted on July 21, 2014 by erikamae82

I’ve spent the last three years celebrating the independence of the USA in Northern California with some dear friends. A houseboat trip, fireworks and quality people definitely equals a memorable holiday. For a change, this 4th of July I chose to be near water on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida with my mom.

Not much description is needed to represent the outdoor venue in which our talented friend, Geoff Mcbride was spreading his love.

Music + happy humans = Dancing!

If this beautiful couple looks familiar, it’s because they were there the first time I fell in love with the music of Heritage (who happens to enhance the post below)!

For the night of the 4th, we were lucky to score our favorite tunes from none other than the band Heritage!

Set up in an open alley, they were the center of attention to a beach side block party.

Enthusiasm? And the winner is…

Sun down and an intermission brought us all to the coast for fireworks off the dock.

“One more song! One more song!”

Although this photo isn’t amazing quality, I dig the glowing jewelry.

Just as the band was finishing up, mom and I ran into one of my new favorite hair clients and long lost friend that I didn’t even know I had… Remember Stephen from recent posts? He’s back!

After a day of music and an evening block party with quality vibes, what summer holiday would be complete without a recovery day on the beach? Same sand, lovely mother and a creative handstand shot (not sure if that was helpful to the recovery by the way) to celebrate the anniversary of our Independence Day.

For fun facts and more about this holiday, check out the post called 4th of July in the USA (or just click on it).

Categories: Uncategorized | Tags: 4th of July, Beach, Florida, Heritage, holiday, Independence Day, Music, santa rosa beach | 2 Comments

A fishing pole, banjo and a beer

Posted on June 20, 2014 by erikamae82

Once upon a time, my mom and I took one of our usual walks to the beach.

After too many duo selfies and a couple cartwheels (me, not mom) she randomly spotted a cheerful looking fella walking with a huge fishing pole, a banjo and a beer. “Ooh, I wonder what he’s fishing for!”, she says like a curious kid who wants to know everything about everyone. As I turned to look, my lovely mother was already near him with her hand extended. As I approached the banjo man, is was clear she had met an incredibly good natured guy with an easy going attitude. Casual conversation lead to a hair cutting date and a new friend. Nice catch mom!

Fast forward a few days and here we are! A front porch haircut and more smiles… Excellent!

Sorry sweetheart, I’m not experienced in dog grooming.

Glorious! I score another buddy with an instant connection bonded by a haircut. I’m so thankful mom was interested in his fishing adventure.

Moving on in the week, Steven sent me another client that enhanced my day with an additional porch side haircut, meet Grayton!

UPDATE:
I met Steven on the beach who then introduced me to Grayton. What I didn’t mention above, was that he also referred me to a job of my dreams at a local vegan cafe and juice bar. (Turns out Grayton works with there as well!)

Guess who is now officially employed at the one and only Raw and Juicy that sits so perfectly in the center of Seaside beach?! I’ll show you more details of this adorable set up later, but here’s a sneak peak!

Categories: Uncategorized | Tags: Beach, Florida, haircuts, santa rosa beach, work | Leave a comment

Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach

Posted on June 16, 2014 by erikamae82

It’s been labeled “Photo Bombing,” “Guerilla Projection” or my favorite, “Urban Projection,”. This is when underground artists use huge structures, such as sky scrapers, to cast their own digitally animated images for display.

“Digital Graffiti” at Alys Beach is the first outdoor festival specifically organized to showcase these unique talents. It reminds me of the white walls in Malaysia that welcomed local artists to draw, paint and tag till their heart was content in a structured and encouraging environment.

For one night, this beach-town of white stucco buildings turns into a living gallery. A dark neighborhood is lit by pathways of colored lights and innovative artwork. The event coordinator explained it simply, “Our town literally becomes their blank canvas.”

Here’s a day time shot to give you an idea of the distinctive buildings that make up the famous Alys Beach.

After the sun went down, the stimulating lights came on and the digital art was displayed for all the guests to view. If you’d like to see video of these photos in motion, go to www.digitalgraffiti.com.

After observing the extraordinary art scattered about the neighborhood, we found ourselves at a dance party, otherwise known as my “happy place”. The Dj did a fine job keeping a crowd along side a chill Vegas-styled pool (that was extremely tempting as we all stood in the Florida humidity trying to look cute and pretend that you didn’t feel the sweat dripping down your back).

A complimentary photo session invited friends to line up and pose for a picture that would probably be used later as friendly bribery and/or memorable laughing material.

Before going on, I’d like to point out the gorgeous blonde in the photos from above. Julia Cole is an upcoming singer/songwriter that I met through Tyler (the gentleman in the post “Beaches, boats and ballads”). I highly suggest checking her out (my favorite song is “Sweetheart”) and let me confirm, her stunning looks match the remarkable voice that comes out of her sweet smile.

Julia, thank you so much for the pleasant path crossing, hopefully next time we’ll get more time! Cheers to you and the journey ahead.

Ok, so this is where my night goes from amazing to heartbreaking. Without boring you with the details, just know that at this point, my body signals the call it a night siren and I decide to head home. Enter sad pouty face here. Feeling like a 9 year old that gets sick at Disneyland, I exit the fantasy evening holding high hopes that I’ll get another opportunity to experience it to the fullest.

A special thanks to Tyler and Andrew for making this a possibility for me!

Please note, many photos from above were borrowed from other sources.

Categories: Art, Uncategorized | Tags: Alys Beach, art, Dance, digitsl graffiti, Florida, Julia Cole, pool party | 1 Comment

Beaches, boats and ballads.

Posted on June 8, 2014 by erikamae82

I finally arrived in Florida to visit my marvelous mom and naturally, we had our toes in the sand within moments of my arrival.

Surprise for me! On this night we got to go to a show of my ultimate favorite local band, Heritage! You may remember these quality fellas from the post, “A man becomes what he thinks about”. With music that feeds the soul and energy that boosts the mood, you really can’t go wrong by surrounding yourself with their unique vibe!

This is my favorite photo of the evening simply because of the bright smiling blonde enjoying the music. Priceless!

Who’s this? No seriously, you can barely see us… but standing next to me is a fine gentleman by the name of Tyler. Within moments of our first eye contact, the conversation was flowing as if we’d known each other for years.

2 days later

Did I mention that this new pal wake boards? With my quick acceptance to his casual offer, I found myself on a boat with non other than fun loving Tyler and a handful of his closest buddies. Yep, it happened.

The drive inland takes us lakeside to a perfectly placed country house that just so happens to be the home of Andrew. I didn’t ask permission to expose his full name or his professional past… Let’s just say some may consider him to be “kind of a big deal”. (To be said sarcastically but half way serious).

Time to suit up, stretch out, get wet and throw some tricks! I’m speaking in regards to their abilities of course. Mine would go more like, “Suit up, cross your fingers, get cold and score some bruises!”. Either way, good times all around.

I forgot to have someone snap a picture of me doing super-skills (ha.ha.ha), but I did snag a few sweet ones of the boys!

Check out the clouds in these next photos. Definitely a typical Florida sky showing signs of potential rain with a side of rolling thunder!

That’s our cue to head in and tie up. My curiosity peaked when I couldn’t see a dock, but was quickly tamed when they informed me of the plan. His backyard had flooded a bit which made for a smooth transition from boat to water… to slimy mud… to grass… and finally to his deck. Ignoring the idea of water moccasins tangling between by ankles or swamp alligators sniffing out my new lotion, I jumped off like the rest of them and made the trek towards his house.

With the barbecue fired up, we made time for quality conversation and an assault attack of some yellow flies (please google them if you’ve never heard of these aggressive insects). Not pictured below was the entire group running, swatting, slapping and yelling threatening phrases at these vicious little creatures!

The sunset brought a calm ending to an energetic day and the perfect opportunity for a handstand.

Much gratitude for the open invitation and hospitality shown by this group. I look forward to the next adventure… Soon to come!

ADDITION:
A week later, I got to head out again except this time there was twice as many riders and some of the best in the world (seriously). These famous athletes were shooting film to promote next seasons gear. From England to Australia and a few Cali kids, this boat towed some extreme talent and I was lucky enough to observe!

Without much explaining, here are some photos I captured throughout the day. I’m sure they’re not as incredible as the ones snapped by the professional (that’s using a waterproof-inspector gadget camera getup), but hey…

Positive people, amazing wake boarders and another event in which I was honored to be a happy little fly on the wall.

Creative color of the day…

Categories: Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: Beach, Boat, Florida, Heritage, Mom, Music, seaside, Wakeboard | Leave a comment

“A man becomes what he thinks about…”

Posted on July 30, 2013 by erikamae82

“Got to visualize a better day, to materialize a better way…” Sound familiar? It should! These lyrics only begin to expose the energy brought by one of my new favorite bands, Heritage.

Quick recap of how I met these guys. Simply put, I attended a local gig, connected after the show and then kept in touch. Here they were last winter (click here) to see the full post.

This time around they played in Destin in which mom and I drove out to support their good vibe!

Her view…

My view…

Best view…

After reconnecting with guys, I ventured over to the home base to help load up for the road as they depart to perform on the Vans Warped Tour! Printing and folding shirts, labeling merchandise and packing up. This is where the invite happened in which begins the next portion of this post.

I’m going to continue this post by stopping you from reading. What? Yeh, it’s time for a short break to listen…and feel. Selfishly, it’ll make my post even better and secondly, you deserve to hear the good vibrations that spill from their music! One of my favorites is “Simplify”. Check it out at the Heritage Band website and gift yourself a moment with a song.

I’ll wait.

Now since you’ve experienced the sound, let’s take a journey with these fellas during just a small portion of their most recent tour.

These guys have been on the road for a bit and now there’s a group of us heading out to meet up with them. Before the sunrise, we prepped the 4 wheels with 5 girls (Me, Brittany, Gina, Jodi, and Jessica whom will all be described later) and the one and only princess of the crew, Alan.

First hour included the load up and a sunrise as we start the 7 hour road trip to our first show in St.Petersburg Florida.

The next 6 hours included musical seats while searching for lost items, nap time and a final gas up with lunch.

Finally arrived and ready to play!

Once in the park, first and most important stop is the Heritage Booth. This is the place where all of those shirts we folded and goodies we packed are now on full display to sell to the public.

We took a walk around to check out the other stages and scenery.

The view behind the controlled chaos is extended water with a setting that allows for a deep breath… and a handstand of course!

What time is it? 6:00… Show time! One thing I noticed with some of the other bands, is they would often start with a large crowd that would slowly dissipate. Heritage however, started with a few of us loyal bee’s upfront that turned into an amped up crowd. They’re magnetic!

Some fun shots with a little effects thrown on the camera.

After wrapping up an energetic set, they please some fans with a few photos before loading up and hitting the road again. To be continued in West Palm Beach!

This days brings more smiles, another show and the Florida rain. As we pulled into the venue, it was clear that mud would be a definite part of the days entertainment.

Time to officially meet the lovely ladies that I’ve been traveling with!

This is Jodi, there’s no question why she’s a great friend to the boys. The relaxed vibe and constant smile she carries, makes her comfortable to talk to and easy to be around.

Looking at the photo, on the right is the guitarist wife, Brittnay. In my opinion, she’s best described as driven with determination, all clearly shown through in her vibrant confidence. In the middle is the managers girlfriend, Gina. She’s an Independent and hard working girl that also ended up being my “almost partner in crime”… that story will not make the blog. (Enter relieved giggle sound here). On the left is good friend to Brittany and the band, Jessica. A chill girl that’s happy to be around, I would say she’s sweet with a little spice.

So, the storm finally lightened up enough to get us to the booth where fans hadn’t let the weather impact their event.

The rain left us with a hug of humidity and a clear stage for the guys to dominate on. Again with my observation, as it starts with just a few of us…

…and through hypnotizing energy and magnetic music, they pull a crowd that didn’t want to quit!

The fun pics of this show…

You guessed it… pack up, load out and after a cat nap we hit the road again. Next stop Orlando!

This day brings a bitter sweet feeling for me as I say ciao for now to the group and head away for my next adventure. A special thanks to Tony Verrecchia – Lead Vocals, Damien Kealoha – Ukulele, Matt Moore – Bass, Hunter Dawson – Guitar, RJ Hernandez – Drums and Jamah Terry on Keys & Sax.

I fully appreciate the flexibility in my life to do such spontaneous things that bring wonderful people, exciting events and memories that last a lifetime. Thank you mom for allowing me to share our time and experience new moments, this means a lot to me.

Next chapter brings a ride to the airport for my departure to the stunning island of Barbados!

Cheers to new friends, the open road and one love.

Categories: Art, Uncategorized | Tags: band, Bus, Florida, Heritage, Orlando, road trip, Tampa, van, vans warped tour, west palm beach | 2 Comments

Reduce, reuse and recycle… Into Art!

Posted on July 29, 2013 by erikamae82

The Blue Giraffe was a huge hit last year as I introduced the gift boutique that sits perfectly on the historic road of 30A in Watercolor, Florida. This year, I’m going to go even deeper and expose some of the incredible people that share their work here. With over 90 artists and 70% being local, you can imagine the intimate vibe and comfortable feeling that this shop exudes.

Everything below is from different artist all using recycled material from the beach, the road, and anywhere else something could be left behind. Can you see the random items in these pieces?

This canvas work is made from broken glass that’s perfect placed by the brilliant artist Mary Hong.

Is drift wood always in your way when you’re playing in the water? Try creating an eye catching piece from it!

On this day, one of the local artists have come to display a few new unique pieces that are made out of primarily salvaged and repurposed materials. From bottle caps to collectors soda cans, Alan Moore produces one of kind work… please enjoy!

Below is his 2 eldest daughters, Emma and Isabella who also currently sell their artwork in galleries in Florida and Washington state. What a family!

On this day, the Moore family guided a good ol’ art project and invited the public to join in! They provided the materials and helpful smiles while the participants brought creativity and patience. What a success!

Of course I made one for my dear mom, I chose to use her favorite quote. The fun spirited “thumbs up” in the background is Alan himself!

At the end of the day, the Moore family gave funny faces as we close up shop.

I’m only assuming that several of you are interested in more of Alan’s work, so let me connect you!
Click here to be directed to the Moore Family Folk Art website.

Craving more from the The Blue Giraffe gallery? Push this fancy link!

Categories: Art, Uncategorized | Tags: art, Blue giraffe, Florida, Panama city beach, recycle, Watercolor beach | 1 Comment

Surprise attack!

Posted on February 27, 2013 by erikamae82

Time to catch up before I depart from the US for another stretch of amazing adventures!
Let’s do this quickly as I’m leaving for the airport this morning and you just never know when the next “wifi” will pop up in the journey.

After Oklahoma, I made a sneak attack on my unexpected mom. She thought I was flying to a friends place before my final stop in Atlanta… Wrong! I wanted to be there for her birthday (if you know my mom, this means the world to her!) so I had her friend pick me up at the airport and here’s what happened next:

Our phone call started with her upstairs (unable to see me) as I walked in the front door.

“Hey mom, how are you?” as I close the front door.
“I’m good, oh wait… I think my friend is here.”
“Oh, should I let ya go?”
“Nah, they’ll just come up the stairs.”
Sadly I reply “Awh, I wish it was me walking up the stairs.”
She responds with “I know, that would just be amazing!”

As she finished that sentence I topped the final step and walked around the corner.

With camera in hand, I did my best to capture her reaction. If you can’t tell, there was a combination of excited confusion, screaming, crying and a hug that pleasantly lasted a long time.

Our week in a few photos:

Valentines day she was hosting a gorgeous event that I got a sneak peak of. I loved capturing this moment as she was serenaded by the humble and extremely talented Jeff McBride. This was the start to her Birthday week celebration!

Next up, live music! If you’re into quality lyrics and a chill vibe, you will thoroughly enjoy my new friends from the band Heritage. These guys absolutely did a job well done by keeping the crowd smiling, dancing and for me personally… directing thoughts towards positive energy! Thank you Tony for your voice of peaceful sound and our inedible conversations that followed.

Ending our trip with a walk around some local spots and a market of fun eats, homemade goodies, all with an awesome view!

Thank you “honey” girl for letting me borrow your gloves!

Recognize this? Me neither. It was the post office used in the movie Truman Show with Jim Carrey. I had no idea it was filmed here!

From here, I jumped over to visit my good ol’ buddy Marshall in Jacksonville before we drove to Atlanta… My final handstand in the states before I depart again!

Next stop… El Salvador!

Categories: Art, Uncategorized | Tags: Atlanta, Florida, Jacksonville, Jeff McBride | Leave a comment

Happy and healthy with sandy toes!

Posted on January 15, 2013 by erikamae82

We’ve all heard the famous words, “Exercise releases endorphins”. These are natural hormones that flood the body with a feel-good energy that releases stress and uplifts your mood… and I love it!

I headed down to the complimentary gym of the condo to get my heart rate up and release those amazing endorphins.
Although small, I appreciated the cleanliness as I observed what tools I had to work with. They had a few treadmills, two seated bikes and a set of free weights all stored in a compact room with a magnificent view.

As I peddled away during my warm up, it hit me… wham! I’m sitting in a tiny room with florescent lighting, and a window that happened to be showing me a much bigger, brighter, and fabulous gym… We call it the beach!

I stopped the bike and headed towards mom to see if she was up for a workout in the sand. The gym was on the 4th floor, our place sat on the 20th and if you know me well, you know this was an invite for a stair climb. Ready set go!

Once reaching mom, 2 minutes and 18 seconds later (I timed my stair climb each attempt in order to motivate a quick pace) we agreed that a beach visit would be the perfect ending to this vibrant day.

Fitness time! I’m going to break this down into some basic thoughts for a proper beach workout.

Let’s start with some rules. First off, check your surroundings to make sure you don’t put yourself or any others in danger. That appears easy today!

Next, scan the sand for any seashells that can later be made into jewelry (that I’ll be taking abroad to gift, trade or donate).

Bring liquids to keep hydrated (preferably in self designed cups).

Be aware of seagulls and/or any other flying creature that could view your head as a target.

Time to get the heart rate up! I spy I tiny bird that wants to play tag, so I sneak up…

…and the chase begins! He won.

I take a breather to practice some press handstand moves. These are much harder for me than it appears!

Back to increasing the heart rate… Tuck jumps and running in place are two great ways to do so while triggering different muscles.

I then attempted to play with the waves. I chase them, they get me. I dodge them, they get me.

Now everyone STOP! Its time for the dance portion of this work out.

Followed by a quick photo shoot requested by the photographer (my proud mom of course).

A peaceful stretch after the energetic fun seems to align the mind and body to a calm sense of completion.

The final task is sharing the sunset with your best friend. Taking each breath in appreciation for your health and happiness while having full gratitude for whats in front of you. I cheers with a smile to living in the now.

Categories: Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: Beach, cardio, fitness, Florida, Gymnastics, sand, workout | 1 Comment

Do you believe in blue giraffes?

Posted on January 12, 2013 by erikamae82

I do! Welcome to the inspirational Blue Giraffe or what I now call the positive energy of Watercolor, Florida.

Why a giraffe? As said by the owners themselves, “Giraffe’s have really big hearts (two feet long and 25 lbs. on average) and a big heart is what drives our business philosophy at The Blue Giraffe”.

This unique place provides an opening experience for the eyes and mind with the abundance of color, texture and artistic variety. As you snoop through The Blue Giraffe, you’ll think to yourself and hear from others, “Ooh, look at that” or “I wonder what’s that made of” and my personal favorite, “Oh wait, that’s a necklace…you can wear that!”

From local art to jewelry, books to knick knacks this stimulating boutique supports local designers and promotes recycling and reuse of what would normally be “waste”. Let’s check it out!
One must properly greet Jeanie the giraffe (named after her grandma) before you enter this magical place of art.

A quick look around isn’t possible as every space is filled with one-of-a-kind items. With that said, here’s a glance at the store full of happy handmade creations!

Mom pointed this one out to me, “That was made for you”. So when (if) I grow up and have a place of my own, you may or may not find this is on my wall!

Let’s take a closer look for all the inner “beach bum” in all of us!

The following pieces are all made with sea shells or recycled broken glass.

Here’s my favorite corner as it bring attention to the reuse of everyday items to create an eye catching work of art. Can you figure out what these are made of?

Some creative shots with my pretend fancy camera.

Look who I found! World, meet Christi. This is the brilliant owner who shines just as vibrant as the walls around her. She will greet you with a smile (and a piece of chocolate) every time you enter her home of pride and joy. Christi, thank you for sharing your passion with us. Your enthusiasm towards supporting the local talent through representing their incredible abilities is much appreciated by all!

…and a final goodbye to Jeanie as we depart till next time.

Click here to be directed to their official website!

Categories: Art, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: art, Blue giraffe, Florida, jewelry, Panama city beach, travel, unique, watercolor | 1 Comment