Your choice – either I didn't know enough to come out of the rain and/or just needed something to make me smile over the weekend. Did both! I was over at Disney Springs Saturday early evening for dinner at Maria & Enzo's for delightful dinner complete with antipasto platter and the epitome of Italian comfort food with spaghetti and meatballs. Oh yes, make reservations! My coworker Ashely and I had an early dinner at 5 and when we left the line was out the door. But what made my night was a trip after dinner to the Grand Floridian and a chance to take in the grandeur of their Christmas decorations. That grand entrance and lobby will just take your breath away. Oh yes, the Gingerbread House is there, celebrating 20 spicy years! After that, back for a quick cannoli and latter and Maria and Enzo's before hitting the road…. because Sunday, well, was a REAL Ann-Venture.

We had plans to check out the Orlando Farmer's Market and pick up our order of artesian marshmallows from Sugar Rush Marshmallows. We had just hit the Winter Haven exit when the first tornado warning went off and we decided to turn around head south and way from the worst of the weather. Try Anna Maria Island! But we no sooner made it on to the island when the rains hit, and the flooding began. But a mad dash into Ginnie G and Jane E's was the perfect place to dry out and have a wonderful brunch…and shop of course. When things lightened up we made a quick tour to pay homage to the City Pier which may begin construction something soon. Please!

But oh so glad we decided to head a little more to the south and Bradenton Beach. The historic BridgeWalk resort is so impressive, and it was nice enough to walk those few blocks, visit their pier and just breathe. It was a little on the crazy side this weekend but a soul-soothing necessity. And no, I'm not telling you what I bought. Too many of you will figure out what you're getting for Christmas. But enjoy the pics!