We had a little time to visit some friends in Venice, FL this weekend after spending time in Tampa for a conference.  Venice is a small town that sits on the Gulf of Mexico, just south of Sarasota, and just about two hours from Tampa.  We lived in Venice from 1996 to1999 when my husband, Paul, first started working for the YMCA.  I loved living there and always jump at the chance to revisit.

We stayed near the Venice Yacht Club and South Jetty.  It was a perfect evening to walk the jetty, then sit by the shore and watch the surfers and sunset.  The air was cool, but with a little red wine, charcuterie board, and time to catch up with friends, it was just what we needed.  

Earlier in the day, we walked the main street of Venice where you will find some great restaurants, gift shops and art galleries.  The atmosphere is laid back and the merchants friendly and helpful.  We stopped in a shop and picked up a couple of Venice T-shirts.

Dinner was at The Crow’s Nest.  It was one of our favorites when we lived in Venice and it’s been around for over 40 years.  Great menu with a casual bar “Tavern” and seating downstairs and a bit more formal dining upstairs.   In warmer weather, there is also patio seating.  We had a very attentive server and she made some great recommendations.  I ordered the seafood special and Paul had the Bouillabaisse.   Before leaving, we stopped in the Tavern downstairs and enjoyed some live music and a drink before calling it a night.

The next morning we were all up early and took a walk on the Jetty and then walked the beach.  I can’t resist looking for the perfect shell to take home.  It was a beautiful morning and I could have stayed forever.  But there were more roads to travel and we packed up and headed back to Jacksonville where we would spend the night before flying back to Chicago.   

Sometimes the best travel memories are made in a day.  I’m always reminded to take in the moments that may pop up unexpectedly, and appreciate time with friends no matter how short the visit.  

Grateful for friends and sunsets,

Brenda