Dunedin, Florida: Winter? Roller Blading!

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This is an action shot, but not necessarily a good one. It was taken this past Saturday. As you can see, it was a plenty warm day, and these two were thoroughly enjoying winter, Florida style. What's more, notice the Christmas decoration leaning against the stairs behind them. Yup, if you enlarge the photo, you can see clearly that it is a Santa, in shorts and sun glasses. Does that mean Santa vacations in Florida?

I want to wish you all a wonderful New Year's Eve celebration. And I hope that 2008 is a year of Joy and Prosperity for you and your loved ones!

Dunedin, Florida: Lake Paloma Eagle Scout Wildlife Project Pt VIII

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Welcome to Turtle Island! No, probably not a fair name, and certainly not democratically selected, but I like it. As I approached the edge of Lake Paloma today, I counted at least 8 turtles sunning themselves. Not bad. In addition, I have seen as many as 4 long legged wading birds out there at one time. Cool. The turtles seem to be of maybe three species that I can see. I think there are Snappers, Eastern Sliders (or something like them), and Soft Shelled. Some of them are BIG!

I promised to list the sponsors of Jim Garrison's Eagle Project, so here we go, in no particular order: Angelo's Pizza, Vision Ace, Signs Now, Collman-Karsky, Joseph E. Garrison CPA, Thornton Donoghue & Assoc., Eddie's Bar & Grill, Danny's Food & Spirits, Sweetbay Supermarket, Einstein Brothers Bagels, and of course, The City of Dunedin. I applaud their involvement in this very worthwhile project. Bravo.

It seemed like one picture just wasn't enough today, so here is a second, from a different angle. It seems like these photos just don't do it justice, so look for more pictures of Turtle Island at some point in the future.

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Hey! Tomorrow is New Year's Eve! Are you going to a party? Or will you celebrate at home? Either way, have fun, and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Check out slow cars and fast food onClearwater Daily Photo, and happy sailing on Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. Today, I try my hand at flight photography on my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Lake Paloma Eagle Scout Wildlife Project Pt VII

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There's no denying it. These boys were having fun. And hey, this is Dunedin, Florida, so it just wasn't cold that day... at all! So this is what I like to call Turtle Island. They have strapped down the coconut fiber landscape material, and they are planting it with more aquatic plants now. Shortly after this, it will be towed out to its new home.

If all goes well, tomorrow I will post a picture taken today, of the wildlife enjoying this new Turtle Island. So far I have seen a max of about 8 turtles on the island, and today I saw several turtles sharing it with some egrets and herons. We will see who is about tomorrow when I point the big lens at them!

Sunday's posting will wrap up the series on the Lake Paloma Eagle Scout Wildlife Project. I hope you have enjoyed it. I appreciate the comments from those of you who found it heartening to see this type of community spirit in these young men, and women. And I also appreciate those of you who got bored with the series, but still came back to see what was happening next. :D

If you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Lake Paloma Eagle Scout Wildlife Project Pt VI

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This may be my favorite photograph of the series. Here we have two 'chosen' boys heading out into the Lake with the two floating plant rafts in tow. In the boat with them are the anchors (cinder blocks) that will anchor the plant rafts in place. It's a good thing that Lake Paloma is not very large, and that they were not going far... because I can't really say that they had the best paddling gear in there! :D

Tomorrow and Sunday, I will post the last of this conservation photography / Eagle Scout Project series. Tomorrow will be the final preparations of what I like to call Turtle Island. With luck, I will have a decent picture of a 'be-turtled' island for you on Sunday. I have gotten some nice feedback on this series, and what these fine young people are doing here. I want to thank you all for your comments, and thank you for visiting, whether you leave a comment or not. :)

HEY! Monday is New Year's Eve! What are you doing? Will you be partying at some wild and crazy New Year's Eve celebration? Or will you have a quiet countdown party at home? Either way, crazy or quiet, let's make it a good one, and welcome a New Year to make things happen! :D

If you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Lake Paloma Eagle Scout Wildlife Project Pt V

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Ah-hah! Now we know what the heck they were saving the rest of the plants for! A totally different kind of floating island. Very cool! As you can make out from the picture, these floating mats have holes in them for these specially potted water plants. In this picture, they are preparing the first of two such rafts. This was taken just before the alligator grabbed one of the boys. NO! Just kidding. I have never seen a gator in this lake.

In the picture below, they are making final preparations to plant the other island, which was to be more of a wildlife island, as opposed to a plant life raft. This island, in the picture, is the one you saw Mrs. Garrison checking on in my Christmas Eve post. And in the meantime, if you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Lake Paloma Eagle Scout Wildlife Project Pt IV

I HOPE YOU ALL HAD A WONDERFUL AND MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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You may remember in the previous posts about the Eagle Scout project at Lake Paloma, that they were planting lots and lots of plants all around the edges of the lake. Cool. But these plants were all left back at the staging area. Why would that be? Do you really want to know? Good! Then come back tomorrow and see what happens to these plants.

And in the meantime, if you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Merry Christmas from Dunedin Daily Photo

[Click to enlarge "Dunedin Florida: Christmas" in a new window] To all my visitors here at Dunedin Daily Photo, I wish you and your loved ones a warm, loving and Merry Christmas. I wish for you that this will be followed up with a happy New Year that will be your best year yet!

This beautiful Christmas tree is from a Christmas past, selected as a representative of the Holiday Spirit. If you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Lake Paloma Eagle Scout Wildlife Project Pt III

Hey, someone has to keep these guys in line. It looks like Mrs. Garrison is checking with the island building team to see how it's going. This accumulation of wood and barrels and barricade wrap will get covered with a layer of coconut landscape material to become a floating habitat for the wildlife in Lake Paloma. We will soon see the resulting island afloat and hosting sunbathing turtles.

We have had a change in plans though, and will not be able to list the supporters of the project today. Please stay tuned for more pictures of this great project, and acknowledgement of the project sponsors.

If you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Lake Paloma Eagle Scout Wildlife Project Pt II

Having met Eagle Scout Jim Garrison's parents, and gotten a little information about what was going on, I started around Lake Paloma with my camera to see the 'troops' in action. It was impressive to see the Scouts, of all ages, planting all the new vegetation along the edges of the lake.

They planted a variety of fringe plants that will grow to provide habitat for a wide variety of wildlife that call the lake home. As I visit Lake Paloma on a regular basis, I look forward to watching these improvements develop. Tomorrow we will check on the island building progress. We will also take a moment to acknowledge the supporters of Jim's project.

If you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Lake Paloma Eagle Scout Floating Wildlife Islands Project

I was recently tipped off that a local Eagle Scout would be installing floating islands in my favorite duck pond, Lake Paloma, here in Dunedin, Florida. Needless to say, I made arrangements to be there and get some good pictures for my Dunedin blog. After all, this is really cool stuff! :D And so begins a new series that will last at least several days as I show you the progression of this project.

When I arrived that morning, last Saturday, they had already gotten setup and were hard at work. That's when I met Jim Garrison's parents, Roberta and Joe. They were fine with me being there and snapping shots, so I got right to it. One team was beginning the work on one of the floating islands. You can see them in the photo above. Other, lots of others, were at work planting all sorts of wetland fringe plants along the edges of the lake. They even had City of Dunedin personnel there helping. You gotta love that.

In the days ahead, you will follow along as they plant almost a thousand plants, make two different kinds of floating 'islands', and anchor them in the lake. In Friday's St. Petersburg Times, there is a nice story about Jim and his project. Click here if you would like to read it. And if you are feeling supportive, click the Scouting banner below to see how you can help. Thanks!

If you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Toys For Tots Christmas Motorcycle Ride Finale

Today, sadly, we wrap up the Toys For Tots series. I have saved the very best for last. I first saw this military motorcycle, with sidecar, parked near the live band. I took some pictures, as it sat there alone, because it looked so neat. Then, when I noticed the owner getting ready to leave, I hurried to get in position for some good shots. When I noticed someone in the sidecar, I thought that would make a neat shot. Then the 'person' turned toward me, and WOW, look at that! (Really, click on the picture to see the larger version and get the full effect.)

Every time I look at this picture, I smile. These two seem like a couple of best friends. And what fun to see this dog (small horse? pony?), so calmly seated next to his human, cruising down the street in this totally unique ride. I hope you have enjoyed this photography as much as I have. It was a lot of fun taking these pictures. I have included a couple more below, showing a sample of how these Harley Davidson and Honda Goldwing motorcycles were decorated.

**Addendum... I just recently realized that I had not mentioned, in all my excitement, that these pictures were taken at the after ride party held at the Dunedin American Legion Post 275.




If you are in the market for motorcycle parts, or motorcycle accessories, or motorcycle protective gear, shopping through these links or the banner below helps to support Dunedin Daily Photo. Thanks!

Dunedin, Florida: Toys For Tots Christmas Motorcycle Ride Pt III

Well there you are, the hot dog mystery is solved... sort of. You can probably see plainly what they were doing, now. But what it is called is a mystery to me. I asked someone, the next day, who was there, but they did not know. I can only guess...

Weiner Limbo? Doggie Fetch? Danglin' Dog? I just don't know. So, if you know, or if someone you know, knows... please leave a comment. And I will enlighten us all. And if I see this lady riding down the street, I will ask her. Or perhaps the two on the bike in Tuesday's post.

And what about you? Have you ever done this? If so, did you win? Did you do well, or did you fall off the bike? Let me tell you, that is exactly what happened to a couple of the ladies, as the men slowed too much, and the bike started tip over, the women went tumbling off onto the street. Nobody seemed to get hurt at all, and it was ironic to see all the men jump forward to help... catch the bike and right it, while the ladies were on there own to get up. All in all though, it was a really fun time.

BE SURE to visit tomorrow, when we see the finale of this series... there are a couple of guys you do NOT want to miss! :D

**Addendum... I just recently realized that I had not mentioned, in all my excitement, that these pictures were taken at the after ride party held at the Dunedin American Legion Post 275.

If you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Toys For Tots Christmas Motorcycle Ride Pt II

So, about that hot dog... Again, at the party after the Toys for Tots motorcycle ride, with lots of black leather and Harley Davidson motorcycles. (Oh, I think I saw one Honda Goldwing) Some people are decked out in Christmas cheery outfits, like the nice ladies on the Harley in yesterday's post. Other people are sporting sunglasses, elf hats, hot dogs... HOT DOGS???

The mystery deepens... why does the nice lady on the motorcycle have a hot dog in her mouth like that? It seems a strange way to eat a hot dog, while riding on the back of a motorcycle. Behind her, to the right, there is a man who seems REALLY happy about her and her hot dog. And on the left... coming out of nowhere, there seems to be a hand, about to take the hot dog away... Hmmmm, what does it all mean?

Perhaps tomorrow's posting will be more 'revealing'. Perhaps then we will all know what the heck is the deal with the doggone hot dogs! (sorry couldn't help myself!)

**Addendum... I just recently realized that I had not mentioned, in all my excitement, that these pictures were taken at the after ride party held at the Dunedin American Legion Post 275.

Meanwhile, if you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin, Florida: Toys For Tots Motorcycle Ride

This past Sunday was the annual Toys For Tots Motorcycle Ride. From what I gather, they collected more than a hundred bicycles, and LOTS of toys. I caught up with the riders partying at the end of their ride, in Dunedin. They were having a good time, I can tell you. So I grabbed my camera and started snapping.

I was just about the only person there who was NOT dressed in black leather. The nearby parking lot was full of motorcycles, most of them of the Harley Davidson variety. It seemed like a lot of fun, and I found myself smiling without even knowing it.

I got a variety of pictures I will share with you. Today's photograph shows a cheerful couple of women heading off down the road on their Harley Davidson motorcycle. Santa's helpers, if you will. Before you ask, I will tell you yes, that is a hot dog in the passenger's hand. More about the hot dog next time!

**Addendum... I just recently realized that I had not mentioned, in all my excitement, that these pictures were taken at the after ride party held at the Dunedin American Legion Post 275.

If you would like to see more of this area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo, and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. Thanks for coming today!

Dunedin Florida: Downtown Places I'd Like To Eat: Sea Sea Riders

This is a place that has caught my eye because I think it just looks so neat. I have never eaten there, and I don't recall ever hearing anyone's opinion of it. So I have to add it to my list of places I look forward to trying. It is called Sea Sea Riders Restaurant. They even have a website, so you can check out the menu if you like.

Regarding location, Sea Sea Riders is just about a half block from the Dunedin Marina and about a block from the Main Street Downtown area. That would put it about two blocks from the Dunedin Trail, so it would not be too far out of the way if you are enjoying the trail when you decide it's time for lunch.

If you would like to see more of the area, check out Clearwater Beach Daily Photo and Clearwater Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. (Oh, hey, did you bookmark this page yet?)

Here's What's Happening:
DEC. 18: The city’s Concert Band Holiday Concert is set for Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 pm., in the new Dunedin Community Center, at the corner of Pinehurst Road and Michigan Boulevard in Highlander Park. The concert is free and open to the public. Donations are welcomed. For more information or directions call the Dunedin Community Center at 812-4533.

WEEKLY: The Dunedin Green Market is located in Pioneer Park at the cross streets of Douglas Avenue and Main Street in Downtown Dunedin and runs every Friday 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, from October 19, 2007 to April 25, 2008.

WEEKLY: Every Tuesday night from 8PM to 11PM, the Dunedin Brewery hosts the Dunedin Brewery Drum Circle. The Brewery is located at 937 Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, Florida. Phone# 727-736-0606

ONGOING – The Dunedin Fine Art Center’s Holiday Show is continuing through Dec. 24. Stock up on ornaments and decorations and pick up Christmas gifts. A dozen themed holiday trees are up for sale, as well as art. Check out their awesome galleries. The center is at 1143 Michigan Blvd. Call 298-3322.

Dunedin Florida: Downtown Dunedin: Decorated Light Poles Contest: Kina Kouture

Another in this amazing series of decorated light poles in Dunedin's Downtown area. This light pole, contrary to the large Heidi's sign in the background, was decorated by Kina Kouture. Heidi's is a hair salon, and Kina's is the next door down. In this photograph, Kina's door would be directly behind the pole that bears the woman in scarlet!

If this makes you want to know more about Dunedin, and the Dunedin Florida area, or Downtown Dunedin, please scroll back in time through this blog to learn more about one of the best places you could live. Bookmark this page now so you can find it easily. Coming soon: Photography of the Jim Garrison Eagle Scout project while it was being installed at Lake Paloma, in Dunedin.

And if you would like to see more of the area, check out Clearwater Beach Daily Photo and Clearwater Daily Photo. If you enjoy photography for the sake of photography, check out my photo blog. To see What's Happening, scroll down to yesterday's post. Thanks for coming by today! (Oh, hey, did you bookmark this page yet?)

Dunedin Florida: Dunedin Causeway: Sailing Hurricane Pass, Honeymoon Island

This image of serenity was captured on a recent day at the Dunedin Causeway. When I look at this photograph, I just want to go lay in the sun somewhere. I want to just lay down in the sun, and forget all my cares and worries. Wouldn't that just be cooler than cool. sigh.

The sailboat is headed in the direction of Hurricane Pass, which passes between Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island, both of which are state parks. These are two very beautiful beach areas that we will visit together soon. Caladesi Island is only accessible by boat, and Honeymoon Island is accessible by car, over the Dunedin Causeway.

So check back soon, which you know you want to do, so go ahead and bookmark this page now please. Oh, and please spread the word "Google this: Dunedin Daily Photo". Thanks!

Here's What's Happening: DEC. 15: Dunedin Coastal Cleanup will begin at 8AM, meeting on Dunedin Causeway. For details, call Dunedin Volunteer Services at 727-812-4545.

DEC. 16: Holiday with the Hounds is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at Happy Tails Dog Park, 3051 Garrison Road. Celebrate the season with your pet with a hot dog cookout for owners and a gift exchange of wrapped dog-related items under $5, such as dog bones, dug brush, collar. etc. Call 298-3288 for more information.

DEC. 18: The city’s Concert Band Holiday Concert is set for Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 pm., in the new Dunedin Community Center, at the corner of Pinehurst Road and Michigan Boulevard in Highlander Park. The concert is free and open to the public. Donations are welcomed. For more information or directions call the Dunedin Community Center at 812-4533.

WEEKLY: The Dunedin Green Market is located in Pioneer Park at the cross streets of Douglas Avenue and Main Street in Downtown Dunedin and runs every Friday 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, from October 19, 2007 to April 25, 2008.

WEEKLY: Every Tuesday night from 8PM to 11PM, the Dunedin Brewery hosts the Dunedin Brewery Drum Circle. The Brewery is located at 937 Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, Florida. Phone# 727-736-0606

ONGOING – The Dunedin Fine Art Center’s Holiday Show is continuing through Dec. 24. Stock up on ornaments and decorations and pick up Christmas gifts. A dozen themed holiday trees are up for sale, as well as art. Check out their awesome galleries. The center is at 1143 Michigan Blvd. Call 298-3322.

Dunedin Florida: The Patriotic Spirit is Alive and Well

I spotted this VW Bug parked near the Dunedin Marina when I was walking back from the Dunedin Downtown Old Fashioned Christmas event. I have been looking forward to posting it ever since. I love this picture for so many reasons.

Let's review: First, it is a Volkswagen Beetle (Bug), and I LOVE VW Bugs! We've had numerous Bugs in my family over the course of the last three generations, and I would drive one again in a heartbeat. My own first was a '64 that ran on a 6 volt electric system.

Second, the way this baby is painted and decorated is AWESOME. I love the United States flag design. It's wonderful. And if you look closely, there are rope lights all over it. I just wish I could have gotten a picture of it while it was lit up. Not to mention the decal on the front window that says Greyhound Taxi.

Third, and finally, the front license plate. This is a license plate you can only get from Florida Blood Services. And what is the big deal there? Well, it recognizes the owner for having donated 26 GALLONS of blood! That is an enormous amount of blood donated. If you take it a step further, that means this person has saved a lot of lives!

Dunedin Florida: Downtown Dunedin: Decorated Light Poles Contest: SNOOPY!

Depending on what generation you are a part of, you may well feel that Christmas just isn't Christmas without Snoopy! I was not able to find a Charlie Brown, or Lucy, or Pig Pen decorated light pole, but I am keeping my eyes open for them! I would love to see a Linus decorated light pole. I think he is my favorite of the Peanuts Gang.

Sadly, I must admit that I do not know what business or community organization decorated this pole. I will be working to find out. Someone asked if these poles make it to Christmas. Yes, it is my understanding that they will be up at least until Christmas.

What's Happening:
DEC. 15: Dunedin Coastal Cleanup will begin at 8AM, meeting on Dunedin Causeway. For details, call Dunedin Volunteer Services at 727-812-4545.

DEC. 16: Holiday with the Hounds is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at Happy Tails Dog Park, 3051 Garrison Road. Celebrate the season with your pet with a hot dog cookout for owners and a gift exchange of wrapped dog-related items under $5, such as dog bones, dug brush, collar. etc. Call 298-3288 for more information.

DEC. 18: The city’s Concert Band Holiday Concert is set for Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 pm., in the new Dunedin Community Center, at the corner of Pinehurst Road and Michigan Boulevard in Highlander Park. The concert is free and open to the public. Donations are welcomed. For more information or directions call the Dunedin Community Center at 812-4533.

WEEKLY: The Dunedin Green Market is located in Pioneer Park at the cross streets of Douglas Avenue and Main Street in Downtown Dunedin and runs every Friday 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, from October 19, 2007 to April 25, 2008.

WEEKLY: Every Tuesday night from 8PM to 11PM, the Dunedin Brewery hosts the Dunedin Brewery Drum Circle. The Brewery is located at 937 Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, Florida. Phone# 727-736-0606

ONGOING – The Dunedin Fine Art Center’s Holiday Show is continuing through Dec. 24. Stock up on ornaments and decorations and pick up Christmas gifts. A dozen themed holiday trees are up for sale, as well as art. Check out their awesome galleries. The center is at 1143 Michigan Blvd. Call 298-3322.

Dunedin Florida: Homes and Housing: Home for Rent

Getting back to homes and housing in the Dunedin, Florida area, here is a house in my neighborhood that is for rent. Or at least, it was when I took the photo! The sign said it had 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2 car garage. I am guessing it has about 1400 square feet of living space, maybe as much as 1600.

As for the neighborhood... well, you are about 7 minutes from the Dunedin Downtown area, driving. Also, about that from the Mease Hospital Dunedin. Another three minutes or so will get you to the Dunedin Marina. I would guess between 15 and 20 minutes from the Dunedin Causeway and Honeymoon Island. Right down the street, like a minute or two away, you will find Pizza Hut, Wendy's, Taco Bell, Papa John's, McDonald's and more. Three minutes away you are at Sweetbay, the grocery store, or at Ace Hardware. Oh my, where am I going with this? Oh yes, so it is a pretty good location. Close to a lot of things.

Oh, and perhaps most importantly... the sign says the rent is $1,295 per month. And I could go on and on about how close it is to things... like the mall, Westfield Countryside Shopping Town is only about 8 or 10 minutes away. So, just an idea of what is available. There are smaller homes in neighborhoods with smaller lots, and bigger homes with bigger lots, available throughout Dunedin and the surrounding areas. In the future, we will get to see more and more of them, so you can get an idea of what housing is like here... on the off chance you are thinking about relocation. :D

To see What's Happening, please scroll down to yesterday's post. Thanks.

Dunedin Florida: Downtown Dunedin: Decorated Light Poles Contest: Black Pearl

Another in our continuing series on the Downtown Dunedin Decorated Holiday Light Poles Contest. Wow, that was a mouthful. Kids, don't try that at home!

This pole, I am told, was decorated by The Black Pearl Restaurant. And what a snazzy, classy place it is. So it makes sense that this decorated light pole would have such a classy look. It's just beautiful, and that's all there is to it. I love that they have gifts hanging below the tree. After all, what is a Christmas Tree without gifts beneath?

We have seen some excellent decorating of light poles so far. There are still more to be found too! I would imagine judging a winner could be tough!

What's Happening:
DEC. 15: Dunedin Coastal Cleanup will begin at 8AM, meeting on Dunedin Causeway. For details, call Dunedin Volunteer Services at 727-812-4545.

DEC. 16: Holiday with the Hounds is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at Happy Tails Dog Park, 3051 Garrison Road. Celebrate the season with your pet with a hot dog cookout for owners and a gift exchange of wrapped dog-related items under $5, such as dog bones, dug brush, collar. etc. Call 298-3288 for more information.

DEC. 18: The city’s Concert Band Holiday Concert is set for Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 pm., in the new Dunedin Community Center, at the corner of Pinehurst Road and Michigan Boulevard in Highlander Park. The concert is free and open to the public. Donations are welcomed. For more information or directions call the Dunedin Community Center at 812-4533.

WEEKLY: The Dunedin Green Market is located in Pioneer Park at the cross streets of Douglas Avenue and Main Street in Downtown Dunedin and runs every Friday 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, from October 19, 2007 to April 25, 2008.

WEEKLY: Every Tuesday night from 8PM to 11PM, the Dunedin Brewery hosts the Dunedin Brewery Drum Circle. The Brewery is located at 937 Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, Florida. Phone# 727-736-0606

ONGOING – The Dunedin Fine Art Center’s Holiday Show is continuing through Dec. 24. Stock up on ornaments and decorations and pick up Christmas gifts. A dozen themed holiday trees are up for sale, as well as art. Check out their awesome galleries. The center is at 1143 Michigan Blvd. Call 298-3322.

Dunedin, Florida Homes - Downtown area - Mease Dunedin Hospital

There are a number of attractive housing options near the Dunedin Downtown area. This is a cute bungalow in a neighborhood nearby. It's got some nice overhang on the eaves, and a welcoming front porch that all help keep the heat of the sun out of the house. Not to mention a beautiful tree shading the front yard. That front porch really does seem as though it would be a delightful place to spend a warm afternoon, catching up with friends and neighbors.

If you look just above the roof line of the house, you can see the top of Mease Dunedin Hospital a few blocks in the distance. Dunedin, Florida is lucky to be home to an excellent hospital, just a few blocks from downtown.

What's Happening:
DEC. 15: Dunedin Coastal Cleanup will begin at 8AM, meeting on Dunedin Causeway. For details, call Dunedin Volunteer Services at 727-812-4545.

DEC. 16: Holiday with the Hounds is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at Happy Tails Dog Park, 3051 Garrison Road. Celebrate the season with your pet with a hot dog cookout for owners and a gift exchange of wrapped dog-related items under $5, such as dog bones, dug brush, collar. etc. Call 298-3288 for more information.

DEC. 18: The city’s Concert Band Holiday Concert is set for Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 pm., in the new Dunedin Community Center, at the corner of Pinehurst Road and Michigan Boulevard in Highlander Park. The concert is free and open to the public. Donations are welcomed. For more information or directions call the Dunedin Community Center at 812-4533.

WEEKLY: The Dunedin Green Market is located in Pioneer Park at the cross streets of Douglas Avenue and Main Street in Downtown Dunedin and runs every Friday 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, from October 19, 2007 to April 25, 2008.

WEEKLY: Every Tuesday night from 8PM to 11PM, the Dunedin Brewery hosts the Dunedin Brewery Drum Circle. The Brewery is located at 937 Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, Florida. Phone# 727-736-0606

ONGOING – The Dunedin Fine Art Center’s Holiday Show is continuing through Dec. 24. Stock up on ornaments and decorations and pick up Christmas gifts. A dozen themed holiday trees are up for sale, as well as art. Check out their awesome galleries. The center is at 1143 Michigan Blvd. Call 298-3322.

Dunedin Florida: Dunedin Causeway: Jet Skis!

Okay, at this point we know that you can sail off the Dunedin Causeway, in St. Joseph Sound or Hurricane Pass. We know you can ride bicycles on the Dunedin Causeway Spur of the Pinellas Trail. And I think I mentioned the jet skis... but I wanted to drive that one home to you. These things are fast and fun. At least, they look like a lot of fun.

Admittedly, I woul prefer a sit-down craft myself, like a waverunner. I can imagine that these get to be a bit much on the knees, with all that wave pounding, if you are not of an active nature. :) Either way, these two really seemed to be enjoying themselves. And there really is a lot of space out there, plenty of room for all manner of watercraft. So you definitely want to put it on your Florida Vacation list, or your after-relocation relaxation list, to check out jet ski or waverunner rentals.

What's Happening:
TODAY: Dunedin Community Chorus Holiday Concert - The 80-voice Dunedin Community Chorus presents, “Holiday Fantasy,” a concert for the season, on Sunday, Dec. 9, 3 p.m., at Edinburgh Hall in the new Dunedin Community Center, 1920 Pinehurst Road. Suggested donated is $5. For more information, call 727-812-4533.

DEC. 16: Holiday with the Hounds is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at Happy Tails Dog Park, 3051 Garrison Road. Celebrate the season with your pet with a hot dog cookout for owners and a gift exchange of wrapped dog-related items under $5, such as dog bones, dug brush, collar. etc. Call 298-3288 for more information.

DEC. 18: The city’s Concert Band Holiday Concert is set for Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 pm., in the new Dunedin Community Center, at the corner of Pinehurst Road and Michigan Boulevard in Highlander Park. The concert is free and open to the public. Donations are welcomed. For more information or directions call the Dunedin Community Center at 812-4533.

ONGOING – The Dunedin Fine Art Center’s Holiday Show is continuing through Dec. 24. Stock up on ornaments and decorations and pick up Christmas gifts. A dozen themed holiday trees are up for sale, as well as art. Check out their awesome galleries. The center is at 1143 Michigan Blvd. Call 298-3322.

Dunedin Florida: Dunedin Causeway: Cycling On Pinellas Trail

Just so you don't think sailing is the only option on a beautiful, sunny day in Dunedin, here is a picture of a couple enjoying a bicycle ride on the Pinellas Trail, on the Dunedin Causeway. This portion of the trail is called the Dunedin Causeway Spur. It's quite a long causeway, and a beautiful ride. At the far end of the spur, you arrive at Honeymoon Island State Park, with its beautiful beaches.

Of course, you can stop just about anywhere along the path here, and you are only paces away from the beach areas along the causeway. It's no wonder people love the Dunedin Causeway. In fact, you can even rent kayaks, sailboats, jet skis, and waverunners here too.

Dont forget, the City Of Dunedin Holiday Street Parade, aka Christmas Parade, is today, starting at 11AM! And also, they are having the Candy Cane Lane Holiday Craft Fair Extraordinaire today! The craft fair will be at the Dunedin Community Center. The parade will be on Douglas Ave. Tomorrow, Sunday, is the Holiday Chorus Concert, also at the Community Center. Lots of fun stuff this weekend!

And if this new photo is not enough for you today, please stop over at Clearwater Daily Photo or Clearwater Beach Daily Photo. Thanks for coming by, and don't forget to bookmark this page. :)

Dunedin Florida; Dunedin Causeway; Sailing In Hurricane Pass

More fun in the sun. This was picture was taken less than a week ago! It was a beautiful, warm day and people were out enjoying every bit of it. These two sailboats make a good picture to give you an idea of how it felt to be out on the Dunedin Causeway, or sailing in Hurricane Pass, between Caladesi Island and Honeymoon Island. Even standing still in the shade, to take my photographs, was a very hot endeavor!

The nearer, blue, sailboat is a trimaran, but I don't know the make. The further boat, with the multicolored sail, is a Hobie Cat. Hobie is a very popular brand of catamaran. They are light, and easy to sail. And LOTS of fun. Trimarans can be a lot of fun too. This trimaran was not exactly screaming along, but if you want to see an incredible trimaran video on YouTube, click here. It gets more incredible as you get a little further into the video.

Oh, and did I mention... The City Of Dunedin Holiday Street Parade, aka Christmas Parade, is tomorrow! Yup, tomorrow starting at 11AM! And also, they are having the Candy Cane Lane Holiday Craft Fair Extraordinaire! The craft fair will be at the Dunedin Community Center. The parade will be on Douglas Ave. Also on Sunday, the Holiday Chorus Concert, also at the Community Center. Lots of fun stuff this weekend!

Winter Water Activities in Dunedin, Florida

My last several posts, featuring scenes of Christmas Celebrations in Downtown Dunedin have met with delight at the realization that many people are wearing shorts in those photos. I am sensing a lot of desire for warm weather and sunshine. So, because this is why people relocate to, or vacation in, Florida and the Dunedin area, I am starting a series today of sunny winter fun.

The photo above was taken from side street just a few blocks north of Downtown Dunedin, just north of the Dunedin Marina. I have never seen this spinnaker before. But it is a pretty little craft, and certainly speaks to the spirit of Florida Living. It looks like fun, doesn't it?

The body of water they are sailing upon is called St. Joseph Sound by some people, or Clearwater Harbor by others, and makes up part of the Intracoastal Waterway . The trees in the background are on Caladesi Island, which is also Caladesi Island State Park. To get to the Gulf Of Mexico from here, you either go a little further south to Clearwater Pass, or you go a little north to Hurricane Pass. In fact, over the next several days, I will bring you more images of sunny winter water fun along the Dunedin Causeway, including boating activity in Hurricane Pass.

If you would like to see more photos of the area, check out Clearwater Daily Photo and Clearwater Beach Daily Photo too!

Dunedin Florida - Old Fashioned Christmas Fun & Food

Did I mention all the fun for the kids? They had a children's craft booth, a place they could make their own s'mores. There were old fashioned toys like the hoop, and the walking cans and even stilts! As if all that were not cool enough, they had a train running up and down Main Street, just for the kids! Way cool!

Of course, you may be asking yourself "But what about Santa Claus, Wayne, where was he?" Well, he was there alright. The top left picture in the table below shows one of his helper Elves. If you look closely just left of the Elf's hat, in about the middle of the picture (click on it to enlarge it), you will see his face peeking through the mob. That's right, he was there, but if you were not a determined parent with a child in tow, you were NOT getting near him! :D

I am wrapping up the series on the Old Fashioned Christmas in Downtown Dunedin, Florida, with the table of pictures below. Click on them for large, easy to enjoy, images. There is one on the bottom left of the horse and carriage ride that was available. The other four give you an idea of the variety of edibles that were available. Just getting this post ready is making me hungry all over again. The booths included Funnel Cakes, Chick-Fil-A, Papa John's Pizza, and Kettle Korn, just to name a few. This was a great event for anyone here on a Florida vacation, scouting relocation to Dunedin, or even just out for a nice evening with the family. An excellent event for locals and visitors alike.

Dunedin Florida - Old Fashioned Christmas Live Entertainment

There was no lack of live entertainment at the Old Fashioned Christmas event! Dunedin, Florida did it again, with a wide variety of live entertainment, sprinkled all up and down the street. Everyone enjoyed the music, each of us having a favorite of the evening. Mine was the duo above, The Moon Glow Duo they are called. Excellent, mellow music. Wonderful Christmas cheer. So I bought one of their CD's, and have enjoyed it very much indeed. So, you want to know more, eh? Click here to see their MySpace page, and listen to some of their music.

But I also enjoyed the accordion player at Bellini's too. He was playing Christmas music, but of course, with an accordion, it sounds so delightfully Italian! There was a man playing a keyboard near the Children's Area, but there was so much noise there I could not even hear him. Poor guy. And there was a Scotsman playing bagpipe near Cafe Alfresco. You could not miss the sound of those pipes! Wow. It was neat stuff. I listened for a while, and then decided I needed to share his picture with you. One last note... to all my fellow bloggers that I normally visit every day. The hours are killing me. Have not seen bed before 1:30am for weeks (up before 6am). So although I will visit each day, I will only be able to comment every 2nd or 3rd day. Thanks for understanding.

Dunedin Florida Downtown - Christmas Celebration

First, I must say, if any of you would like to see a daytime shot of the bridge I featured on Bridge day, click here.

The Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration was a big hit. Lots and lots of people having a good time. There were all sorts of food choices, and plenty of live entertainment. You cannot forget the children at Christmas time, and there was plenty for them too.

Santa was sitting with the little ones to have their pictures taken with him. There was a whole section for kids where they played old fashioned games, made crafts and so much more. In fact, down the side street where Erika's and The Enchanted Branch are, they had a whole second street festival setup for kids, where they played with 'old fashioned' toys like hoops, and walking on cans, and walking on stilts. It seemed to be a great time.

There was a concert in the Pioneer Park band shell. Very nice, with different 'acts' from a variety of groups throughout this area. Most merchants were open, providing everything from free drinks to information about their products.

Oh, and let's not forget the carriage and hay wagon rides!! Yes, and even a little train for the kiddies to ride! And believe me, there was more that I cannot remember at the moment, but as I review the pictures for posting, you will hear about anything I forgot. In the meantime, the pictures below include a boy getting a test drive on an old High Wheel bicycle; happy people getting a ride on a hay wagon; and happy dog owners enjoying their happy dogs! There were quite a few dogs enjoying the festivities, and all seemed very well behaved.