Anna Maria Island

Stayed at a less than clean hotel last night in Venice. I was up bright and early to head more North. I just know the perfect place will pop up and everything will just fall into place.

Arrived at the island about 10 am. Town is adorable. As soon as you cross the bridge there are no franchises, all boutiques, beach gear rentals and locally owned businesses. I found a pier just slightly above that beautiful turquoise water. They advertised a grill at the end. I walked out amongst all of the fishermen, fisherwomen and fisher kids.

The grill is tiny and cute. I sat and soaked up some sun for a while and enjoyed the excited kids when they’d get a bite.

Cell service is terrible and I need to find a place to stay for the night. I meander back on the pier and all of a sudden a HUGE down pour happens. We are all running as if fire is chasing us, then we laugh once we make it to the shelters on the beach, cause, it’s just rain..and it’s warm.

I make my way to one more beach bar. It’s definitely on the beach, it has a gift shop, restaurant, tiki bar, Patio dining and ice cream. And they have a help wanted sign out. I feel compelled to inquire. Even though I could end up getting no experience in what I need. I’ll probably be scooping ice cream or selling souvenirs.

I sat down for the interview, the gal disclosed that they don’t need help at this location, but rather at their tiki bar at the end of the island. It’s much smaller..I smiled and said I’ll gladly go there.

Only hurdle left is finding housing inline with my expected income. I met a plastic surgeon vacationing here for a few months. He gave me tips on how to maneuver through affordable housing. It’s out there.

After my interview. He and another guy I met are taking me to places that they think I might be looking for.