Every Valentine’s Day, committed couples from around the world gather on Siesta Public Beach to renew their wedding vows. While many have participated faithfully for years, for us, it was a first that came gift-wrapped in wonderful surprises, including a personalized certificate and carnation.

Once upon a time in a land far away, my husband and I said, “I do.” We were thousands of miles from home, on a beautiful beach at sunset. A handful of locals, with sighs and smiles, looked on. Recently, we said it again, this time, just minutes from home, on a beautiful beach at sunset. And 800 others, with sighs and smiles, said it, too.

Every Valentine’s Day, committed couples from around the world gather on Siesta Public Beach to renew their wedding vows. While many have participated faithfully for years, for us, it was a first that came gift-wrapped in wonderful surprises, including a personalized certificate and carnation.

The event’s only “cost” is pre-registration, consisting of a phone call or completion of a short online form. Unregistered participants are welcome but will not receive the customized certificate that couples love to collect over the years.

We planned to participate with dear friends, who met us at the Pavilion with bright red, heart-shaped helium balloons imprinted with “I love you.” The congregation grew steadily, and we all chatted, sharing “how we met” stories and other heart-warming memories. The waves lapped gently on the shore, brisk Gulf breezes made our cheeks and noses rosy and the setting sun bathed us in a warm glow. It was sheer romance. And the ceremony hadn’t even begun.

“I promise you my love, to see the beauty that is uniquely yours; to trust you and rely on you…for today is the renaissance of our union. And from this day forward I will feel no rain, for you are my shelter. You have become my world and my life. The future is ours…always.”

At 6 p.m., 400 couples recited these lines, and more, in unison – lovely sentiments written by Judge Becky Titus and her husband for use during the ceremony, which has a more than 25-year history. “I wouldn’t miss this for anything,” she said. “It’s very special to the people that come, and a very special event, personally, for my husband and me.” It’s a stark contrast from Judge Titus’ daily courtroom tasks, which she said, aren’t always pleasant. “In my job we see all of the dysfunctional marriages, the ones that fall apart,” she explained. “But this brings me back to reality. It’s wonderful to see the people that are committed to each other.”

Prizes were awarded to couples married the longest – 64 years – and the shortest – one hour!

Mode of attire was just as varied. Most were dressed casually, though the event draws people wearing everything from bathing suits to wedding gowns.

One woman wore a veil with jeans; one couple sported baseball caps embroidered with the words “Bride” and “Groom.”

Cameras clicked constantly as couples photographed each other under the archway standing for just that purpose; but photo ops elsewhere were plentiful on this picture-perfect beach.

“In as much as you gentlemen and you ladies have this day consented together in Holy Wedlock and have given and pledged your love to each other in the presence of this company, by the virtue of authority vested in me, I now pronounce you Husband and Wife.”

The sun merged with the sea, 400 couples kissed and the music began: “Let Me Call You Sweetheart” sung by the Valentine’s Quartet from the Sarasota Chorus of the Keys, four charming gents in red- and white-striped jackets.

Couples enjoyed sweets for the sweet… tasty cupcakes and refreshing punch. Some strolled to the water’s edge, others set up a barbeque; many left to join the Valentine Stroll in Siesta Key Village, where shopkeepers stayed open, live music continued and people spilled onto the streets from outdoor cafés.

As darkness descended we made yet another commitment… to attend again next year. What a loving way, what a perfect day, to say, “I do” – again.

Written by Lisa Codianne Fowler * Reprinted from Sarasota and Her Islands: www.sarasotafl.org

Thanks to Vacation Rental Pros for sharing the really cool infographic below about some of the fun things to do in St. Augustine. It’s displayed as an image; you can also view (and share!) the live source here: Things to do in St. Augustine.

At Gaylord Palms’ “Shrek the Halls” 2011 Christmas Event

Puss ‘n Boots and me…. we’re buds! My hubby treated me to a weekend of revelry at Gaylord Palms resort in Kissimmee, FL for my birthday in December. The resort, normally a feast for the senses any time of year, was awash in Christmas magic, blanketed in twinkling lights, colorful wreaths, ongoing seasonal music and spectacular holiday shows. This year’s theme is “Shrek the Halls” … a tribute to the loveable cast of characters from the movie, “Shrek.”

From now through January 2^nd guests and visitors can partake in some pretty cool happenings, including ICE!, the legendary annual exhibit of ice sculptures that, this year, features Shrek and friends.

The fact that the festivities are geared toward kids added to the appeal, since my husband, Patrick, and I – though 50-plus – definitely qualify.

Patrick reserved a great package deal, which included, among many other perks, tickets to ICE! as well as to the “Shrek Feast” character breakfast buffet. After having checked in on Saturday and receiving royal treatment as a birthday girl (surprise complimentary room-to-suite  and dining upgrades), Sunday morning found us at Villa del Flora for a sumptuous meal while characters milled about, including the giant ogre himself.

We hugged and took photos with Shrek and his beautiful pre-dusk Fiona, a vision in Cameron Diaz chic. But the cat’s meow was meeting Puss ‘n Boots, the movie character voice-acted by Antonio Banderas. Keep in mind that these larger-than-life cuddly creatures are not permitted to make a sound, much less speak during public appearances.

So, we’re dining on smoked salmon with capers and onions, spinach quiche, fresh fruit, assorted omelets  and an array of cheeses and meats – forgoing the waffles, pancakes and pastries – while sipping bloody Mary’s and Mimosas along with freshly brewed coffee. Lo and behold, Puss ‘n Boots appears at our table.

I don’t know if it’s because I’ve been on a “cat” kick lately (that’s another story) or if I got swept up in the sheer magic of the moment, but not only did I hug the huge cat-masked Banderas look-alike, but I scratched his fuzzy tummy to see if he would purr. His big body went wild, right leg shaking in a frenzied motion that cracked up the crowd. Then we snuggled cheek-to-cheek for my photo op, when I whispered to him that his whiskers were indeed tickling my face.

That did it. He tried to stifle his unauthorized audible laughter… snorting, snickering… obviously moved by the unexpected sentiment from this perennial child… and remained available for my amusement throughout our meal. Hey Puss, not trying to “rat” you out, but rather expressing appreciation for one of the highlights of our visit!

Among others, of course, was ICE! – a colorful 20,000 square-foot display of Shrek characters and Christmas-themed figures sculpted from two million pounds of ice. Don’t miss the 30-foot ice slide… despite all the health warnings, it’s tame enough for me… and all the other kids. Pack gloves and be prepared to wear a resort-issued quilted parka as the exhibition area is maintained at a frosty nine degrees. A refreshing break from tropical temps and a great reminder of why we choose to chill out in Florida, any time of year.

Written by Lisa Codianne Fowler for and courtesy of Getaway Plus

Sarasota/Bradenton is  coveted for its gorgeous beaches and vibrant cultural venues. And if you want to get down to earth, there’s no better place than here.

The readers of Condé Nast Traveler recently heralded Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades as a winning combination, placing three area properties in the 2010 Top 100 Reader’s Choice for Mainland U.S. Resorts.

Condé Nast Traveler readers voted Longboat Key, Florida, as the No. 2 island in all of North America, for its blend of wild, natural beauty and manicured elegance. Visit Florida reports.

Mention polo, and most people conjure up images of Prince Charles, wealthy aristocrats and fine-bloodline ponies. The common folk tend to associate polo with the rich jet-setting life played out in the international media. Not here in Sarasota. But for the beauty of the sport, champagne swilling and divot stomping, the atmosphere bears little resemblance to that in the movie, Pretty Woman.

One of the most dramatic ways to experience a Sarasota sunset is aboard a cruise. There are several to choose from, and all afford opportunities to witness the area’s sea life, blazing sunset and opulent waterfront mansions. Whether you prefer a party boat, dinner cruise or a quiet romantic sail, you’ll find a satisfying venue at Marina Jack in downtown Sarasota.

On Bradenton Beach at Anna Maria Island, this is a segment of the “Gulf Beaches Story”. Watch the entire video of Bradenton Beach at videoofannamariaisland.com with host Lisa Codianne Fowler; produced by Charles Robert Neuf.