For shopaholics only

I’m not a big flaunter of people, places or things (well, OK, I guess that’s a great big lie) but: if you’re in Florida, Beall’s is THE place to shop. I love Beall’s (pronounced Bell’s). I don’t know who their ladies’ wear buyer is but this much is true: s/he is totally plugged into my style and preferences. Some people get hooked on crack – well! Beall’s is my crack. I can’t walk in without seeing something that is a must-have. If you’re interested in colours (my favourite: florals), style, variety and good prices, try shopping at Beall’s online. They also have Beall’s Outlet shoppes which are every bit as addictive! Give ‘em a go - you don't need to be in Florida to dress like a Floridian. That’s not to say that Macy’s, Dillard’s, JC Penney’s, Kohls, Bonworth’s, Sears, etc, aren’t up to par. They’re all lovely stores with lovely things. It’s just that Beall’s is my favourite.

Now if you want cheap, you should check out Ross’s. They have amazing prices but like our Winners in Canada, you have to scrounge thru the racks a bit. In all honesty, the best bargains to be had here are in the ubiquitous thrift and consignment shops. Things are dirt cheap and even then are often discounted again 50%! Want an entire wardrobe? C’mon down to the Sally Ann or the Gulf Hospice or the Sheriff's Ranches for Youth. You’ll be supporting the needy whilst indulging yourself. This is a particular life-saver for those of us whose shapes are changing (due to diet or pregnancy or other)...donate your too-big or too-little stuff and feel free to stock up on your latest size and style!

Flea markets in Florida are de rigueur stops. They carry every little thing your heart desires and then some but you have to commit to a good long stroll, constant eye rolling and neck turning. Definitely a good workout! My latest fix is the variety of magnetic bracelets, of every colour and hue. They’re gorgeous, go with every outfit AND are reputed to help with arthritis and rheumatism. I can’t vouch for that but at $1/bracelet, you can’t beat this little fashion accessory. While we’re on the subject of jewelry, you gotta try what I can the “FMB” line. Between you and me, that’s Flea Market Bling. The rings shine like no diamond I’ve ever seen, and are very moderately priced. I’ve invested in 2 lovely rings both with crystals of amazing clarity and sparkle. So far my finger has not fallen off nor turned green. Now the watch department - that’s another story. Yes, a sad one. These sellers too have watches of every colour and style, lovely stuff. But be forewarned. While they all come with a new battery, they can have problems. I found an incredible deep blue watch that I adore. Its face had a latched cover with cloisonné flowers on it but when the time change happened, it became apparent the watch hands couldn’t be moved past noon – something was wrong. I took it back to the vendor who happily replaced the mechanism on the spot! Thank you, Anna! I also found some different abstract art to adorn our bare rented walls, and will take them home when we leave. Check out our local flea market.

Now in the food department, I’m talking chains here, you can’t beat Applebee’s Restaurants. They are competitively priced – how does a shared appetizer and 2 entrées for $20 sound? What I especially like is this:
· You’re sure to meet the manager – always a good thing
· You’re sure to have a weight watcher choice
· You’re sure to have a dessert portion that, if you’re a dieter, still makes you feel like you stuck to your diet (they’re called “shooters” and they’re baby-sized desserts best shared with your best bud)
· You’re sure to have a pretty good time.

Still in the restaurant category, IHOP is also on my list. IHOP stands for International House of Pancakes. Who can resist a restaurant who, on Shrove Tuesday, aka Pancake Tuesday, opens up their doors and gives FREE pancakes albeit encouraging you to make a charitable donation? I love IHOP. They also have WiFi and great servers.

In my opinion, Cracker Barrel makes the best tea biscuits in all of Florida, but in all honesty, their layout makes for very noisy dining. So, yes, if you want a good homecooked style meal along with the cacophony of multiple very large families, go to Cracker Barrel. They do have lovely rocking chairs and it’s taking all of my shopping willpower to resist having one of their big blue ones sent up home!

There are so many chains and other privately-owned restaurants that are very deserving of mention, but the above are some of my favs for the common folk with limited incomes. You can’t go wrong. But I warn you: if you like vinegar with your French fries – forget it! No vinegar for you! We haven’t yet found a restaurant that provides vinegar. The occasional one will offer malt vinegar, yech! What I find hard to understand is an industry that daily meets the needs of millions of Canadians, most of whom ask for vinegar, they don’t get this subtle yet likely minute-by-minute reminder. Service industry my eye! Next time, maybe I’ll discuss grocery stores.