Jimmy Buffett: American singer-songwriter (1946–2023)
Lately, I’ve been thinking about Jimmy Buffett—his music, his outlook, and the easygoing magic he brought into the world. He didn’t just write songs about island life and margaritas—he gave people permission to slow down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the moment they’re in.
There’s something beautiful about that. In a world that’s always rushing, always striving, Buffett reminded us to laugh more, worry less, and maybe go barefoot a little more often. His songs were filled with sunshine, mischief, and warmth—but there was also wisdom in his words. A reminder that happiness isn’t just about where you are—it’s about how you live where you are.
This week, I’ve also been thinking about my late sister, who lived in the Florida Keys and was a huge Jimmy Buffett fan. His music was part of the rhythm of her life—playing in the background at gatherings, echoing through the island breeze. Whenever I hear his songs now, I can’t help but think of her and smile. It’s a connection that still brings comfort, color, and a little bit of sunshine.
As an artist, I find that same spirit in painting—especially when I let go of the outcome and just enjoy the process. It’s in those playful, relaxed moments that something magical often appears. I think Jimmy would’ve understood that. He lived his life like a canvas—full of color, stories, and good vibes.
So today, I’m raising a virtual glass to the man who made island daydreaming an art form. 🎶🌴
What’s your version of Margaritaville? Maybe it’s time spent in your garden, an afternoon painting just for fun, or watching the sunset with someone you love. However you find your peace, I hope you make space for it this week.
Thanks for being here—and as always…
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“If there’s a heaven for me, I’m sure it has a beach attached.” ~Jimmy Buffett
Florida Key Lime pie is a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds and immediately takes you to the sunny shores of Florida. With it’s slightly tart lime flavor, smooth texture and delicious graham cracker crust, this iconic dessert has become synonymous with the Florida Keys.
There are quite a few variations to this delicious treat but one of my favorites can be found at Kermit’s Key Key Lime Shop, located at 200 Elizabeth Street in Key West, Florida. This is one of four locations with a second shop on Duval Street also in Key West, another in Deland, Florida and a fourth shop in Charleston, South Carolina. Kermit’s offers a variety of Key Lime items including candies, sauces, seasonings, cookies, jams and of course the pie to name a few. If you have the opportunity, I highly recommend stopping at one of the locations!
Who invented this delicious dessert? The exact origin is still shrouded in mystery to this day. It’s widely believed that the pie was first created in the late 19th or early 20th century. One theory is it was a botonist named Jack Simmons. Another theory is it was invented by a sponge fisherman in the Florida Keys who used readily available ingredients which were easily preserved to make the pie. The ingredients included condensed milk, egg yolks, and Key limes and it was a delicious dessert for sailors. And yet a third theory gives credit to “Aunt Sally” who lived in the Key West area and was the cook for Florida’s first millionaire, William Curry who popularized the dessert in the late 1800’s.
Regardless of it’s exact origins, Key Lime Pie is an iconic part of Florida’s culinary heritage which is loved by locals and visitors alike for it’s tangy flavor and creamy texture. So, whether you’re indulging in a slice at a local bakery or trying your hand at making one at home, be prepared to savor every last bite of this timeless classic.
Hope you enjoyed this post today, thanks for stopping by!!
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“Key Lime Pie: A slice of Florida sunshine in every bite!” ~Unknown
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Key West, Florida the southernmost point in the continental USA and also the westernmost island connected by highway in the Florida Keys. There are more than 800 Florida Keys stretching over 180 miles but only 43 of them are inhabited. The island of Key West is fairly small running 4 miles long and about 1 mile wide.
In 1912 Henry Flagler built his railroad down into Key West connecting it to the mainland. Sadly on September 3rd 1935, Key West was hit by one of the most powerful hurricanes to date, “the Labor Day Storm” and it washed the railroad away which cost Flagler $20 million dollars to build. The railroad was never rebuilt but instead was replaced with a highway.
The scenic drive into Key West on the 110 mile Overseas Highway is simply spectacular! On your drive you’ll enjoy the natural coastal beauty as you cross a total of 42 bridges including the infamous 7 mile bridge which is my favorite. There are plenty of great restaurants, shops and art boutiques to stop at along the way.
There are a lot of interesting sites to visit in Key West including the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, a must see, showcasing artifacts and treasures from the Atocha. President Truman’s Little White House with guided tours and lots of US history. The legendary novelist, Ernest Hemingway resided in Key West and did a lot of his writing in his home which is now open for tours and home to about 60 cats. But keep in mind these are just a few of the fun places to visit while in Key West, there are plenty more.
I’ve saved the best for last as the sunsets in Key West are simply breathtaking. If you do nothing else but take a sunset cruise you won’t be disappointed. You’ll be in awe as you enjoy Mother Nature at her finest while cruising the ocean, there’s nothing quite like it!
I hope you enjoyed this little travel review and are able to visit the Florida Keys some day. Thanks for stopping by!!!
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“Every sunset is an opportunity to reset.” ~Richie Norton
Flowing Waters Art 