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Annette Gallagher Weisman

@agwwriter

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I’m a freelance writer covering lifestyle and culture, with a focus on food, wine, travel, and books in Southwest Florida and beyond.

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Family Photo —My daughter Samantha with husband Jordan on left @jordanlevydp and my son Patrick, who was visiting recently from San Francisco. We are enjoying a super meal @dosbesospasadena which specializes in tapas and paellas. It was a perfect evening to dine outside, though the patio can be covered in less ideal weather. I know my husband and I shared a seafood paella but can’t recall the appetizers specifically except there was enough and it was tasty. Just one of those truly “happy meals” when being together is the main thing. If you are in the area though, I recommend Dos Besos—good food, good service and a pleasant vibe.

PS I tend to write any time of day when I have some free time. I was informed though 3-6pm today, Tuesday, is good for those who follow me.
Darn I see it’s 6.05. I’ll choose some music pronto and hope the algorithm is not too exact. 🤞 taken in Pasadena, California by @agwwriter

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17 hours ago

MONDAY MUSINGS: YOU CAN’T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER, OR CAN YOU?
CERTAINLY, FOR THE AVERAGE BOOKSTORE BROWSER—AND WHO DOESN’T LIKE TO BROWSE, WHAT ATTRACTS US IN THE FIRST PLACE TO PICK ONE BOOK OVER ANOTHER IS THE COVER. THESE BOOKS SEEMED TO CLAMOR FROM THEIR SHELVES “ PICK ME. PICK ME!”

I’ve noticed in recent years book covers have more day glow colors such as bright orange, lime green, and shocking pink. I recall Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus had a bright pink or was it an orange cover. I forget which, but I won’t forget the tall stacks of her novel on display in Barnes & Noble as Book of the Month where even the end papers facing out were electric blue.

If you are a follower of the book world, you’ll know that the 2026 winner of the Booker Prize will be announced on November 9, in London. Down from 13 books to the short list of six, I was chuffed to see I had picked four of the six potential winners. They are: JOHN OF JOHN by Douglas Stewart, which I intend to read; THE THINGS WE NEVER SAY by Elizabeth Strout, which I have read and recommend; MAY WE FEED THE KING, a debut novel by Rebecca Perry, which I’m debating adding to my nightstand; and THE DISAPPEARERS by Marlon James. I did not guess the last two. THE END OF EVERYTHING by M. John Harrison and BLACK BAG by Luke Kennard, but chose instead SWITZY by Emma Cline, on my list to read also is fellow Dubliner Djamel White’s debut novel ALL THEM DOGS.

Who do I think will win? Douglas Stewart is a contender for sure. But I thought at first Elizabeth Strout who has been nominated before and is a master storyteller would win.
Now I put my money on Marlon James. While I think it may be too brutal for some to read, it is a substantive novel, both in size 640 pages, and content.
It’s about the aftermath of a homophobic assault on eight gay men who are performing in a play. Two of the men disappear after the attack and years later two others in the group try to find them, which leads the novel through the gay underground, the Aids era, friendship, and betrayal. James’ novel is also nominated for the National Book Award.

Interesting to note The DISAPPEARERS has two covers (pic 2 is the US version). taken in N. Naples, Florida by @agwwriter

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2 days ago

SUNDAY READING— CLARIDGE‘S: QUEEN OF HOTELS, HOTEL OF KINGS. The OFFICIAL BIOGRAPHY by Martin Williams. Claridge’s is a treasured, stylish hotel in London, which is over 200 years old. If I have the number of years wrong, no doubt the author Williams will correct me. @disraeli81 According to Claridge’s archivist, Kate Hudson, he was obsessive about checking facts.
I haven’t got a copy yet, but it seemed to me the kind of book many of you would be interested in reading, so I thought I’d mentioned it here aside from briefly in Story.
Having lived in London, I know @claridgeshotel afternoon tea is sublime and no doubt meeting for drinks there would be a treat too. As for cuisine, their Lobster Wellington is famous, a whole lobster concealed in puff pastry accompanied by a divine lobster bisque sauce. But it’s the stories about the hotel and people who’ve stayed there I want to hear more about from royals to politicians, the literary set and Hollywood stars. Published October 8th by Hodder & Stoughton. Perhaps a gift for someone? Maybe yourself.

#luxuryhotel #claridgeshotel #historylovers #author #bio by @agwwriter

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3 days ago

GETTING READY FOR ‘SHOWTIME’ @seasaltnaples taken in Naples, Florida by @agwwriter

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4 days ago

SEA SALT - TWO DAYS AGO, THE LAST DAY OF SIZZLE DINING @sizzledining WE HAD LUNCH AT SEA SALT IN OLD NAPLES. THE NEWLY RENOVATED RESTAURANT’S INTERIOR IS STRIKING WITH A COASTAL, CONTEMPORARY FEEL. THE PIÈCE DE RESISTANCE IS A GIANT MURAL RUNNING ALONG THE MAIN DINING ROOM WALL BY ARTIST YANKEL GINSBERG. THE MURAL DEPICTS VENICE IN ALL ITS SHIMMERING GLORY, NOT SURPRISING GIVEN CHEF/OWNER FABRIZIO AIELLO’s VENETIAN ROOTS.

It was such a lovely day though, most diners cooled by fans awhirring above them dined alfresco. All three appetizers on the Sizzle menu appealed to me. I finally opted for the gem lettuce, radish, and avocado salad with its super tasty ginger-carrot dressing. As you can see, Bob’s Tuna Crudo was also, covet-worthy. And then, and then, I had a yen for a hamburger. Unusual for me, who has burgers infrequently. Could it possibly be as good here as the last one I had a few weeks ago? Yes. Yes. And yes. Sea Salt’s Black Angus Burger is hard to beat with its shack sauce, smoked bacon, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and house fries. I demolished the burger and bun pronto. And the fries? Well, that’s a given. My Irish logic will abandon a bun occasionally when diet conscious, but never the fries. After all, they are potatoes.

While Sandy had an Aperol Spritz, I asked for a Rosé Spritz. (My version of Iced Tea— cold tea is an acquired taste I still haven’t got used to yet.) Coffee afterwards and we were all happily sated. I’m so glad we got to dine somewhere we hadn’t been in ages. That’s what Sizzle does: remind one of all the great dining to be had in SWFL. As most of you know by now all of the 140 participating restaurants this year donate $1 from every meal purchased to Blessings in a Backpack @blessingsswfl who in turn provide school age children with meals on weekends who may go hungry otherwise. Sizzle has grown from one to four weeks over the past ten years. Thanks to all who contribute especially Guy Clarke who’s makes it all happen.
@guyeats239 sizzledining.org

📷 @agwwriter
#DineWithPurpose #sizzledining #swfl #naplesflorida #seasaltnaples taken in Naples, Florida by @agwwriter

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5 days ago

“Rabbit. Rabbit.” Good morning. Happy October 1. I hope this rabbit by Tracy Porter @porter_art_guild will bring you luck this month. Maybe it’s a hare. I’m not sure. I do know it’s an account worth following. I’m a fan. Not sure I can find the music choice either but will try to find something appropriate.

#rabbitrabbit #october #artinspiration #animalovers #goodluck taken in N. Naples, Florida by @agwwriter

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6 days ago

SIZZLE DINING ENDS IN TWO DAYS! HERE’S A QUICK ROUND UP OF SOME OF THE RESTAURANTS WE’VE ENJOYED SO FAR. ONE TO GO —SEA SALT ON THE 30th and THE SUPPER CLUB OMITTED— will get to later and edit these. Traveling, extreme haste.

FIRST UP BALEEN’S — Two course lunch with a Gulf view to die for and the best burger I’ve had in forever: a blend of brisket, short ribs & round chuck with their own special aioli sauce.

BLEU PROVENCE: Provençal cuisine and decor. Never disappoints. Love entire menu including Loup de Mer seen here. (See prior post.)

CE SOIR— New, so like us it’s a good restaurant to try if you haven’t been here. Sophisticated vibe. French Mediterranean. Suitable for date night or group.

CHOPS CITY GRILL. True steakhouse of the elegant variety. Steak and fries here. Bar is a buzzin’ in Season.

THE SUPPER CLUB — No pics here but will review separately. Sizzle is an excellent opportunity to try this top chef level normally multi -course special dining experience. Three courses, with dessert as additional charge. Not to be missed.

SEA SALT — Can’t wait to dine at this newly renovated Naple’s favorite on the 30th. Will review afterwards.

Apologies for this hastily written post, but wanted you to have these recommendations in case making reservations before Sizzle is over end of month. It’s such a good cause, so do go to sizzledining.org for details and to make reservations. Will try and edit this next day or so, and review restaurants in more detail when home. @sizzledining @blessingsinabackpack

📷 @agwwriter

#dinewithapurpose #sizzledining #reviews #naplesflorida #swfl taken in Naples, Florida by @agwwriter

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9 days ago

VROMANS in Pasadena at over 130 years-old is the oldest independent bookstore in Southern California. I just had to make time go there after dinner yesterday evening. In the bag some gifts for my granddaughters or I’d show you. Didn’t have time to browse nor visit their wine bar next door.
Have you read any books on the Booker Prize Shortlist yet? I guessed four of the six from the Longlist of 13. You?

@vromansbookstore

#independentbookstore #pasadena #readerlife #authors #writingcommunity taken in Pasadena, California by @agwwriter

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12 days ago

PERUVIAN LILY MAY BE EASIER TO RECALL THAN ALSTROEMERIA, THE NAME YOU’ll FIND WHEN BUYING THESE FLOWERS AT TRADER JOE’S.
They are such good value and come in many colors, some are even flecked with a contrasting shade.
Alstroemeria cost about five dollars a bunch, though I think the bunches are getting slightly smaller. I usually buy two bunches to put in a vase this size at home. Purple is my favorite color, but when these opened up yesterday, their beauty and delicacy made me so happy. I guess I’d be a cheap date — if I were not married!
Change the water after a week or less and they’ll last another week. Publix now sells them too. Happy weekend!

@📷 agwwiter

#floweroftheday #peruvian #lily #naplesflorida #traderjoes taken in N. Naples, Florida by @agwwriter

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18 days ago

BLEU PROVENCE — YES, THAT IS THE SIZZLE DINING MENU AND NO, THAT’S NOT ME IN THE SECOND PHOTO. IT’S MY FRIEND SANDY WITH HER DAUGHTER HEATHER ON THE LEFT, AND HER GRANDDAUGHTER ADRIANA ON THE RIGHT. WE ARE CELEBRATING HER HUSBAND GEORGE’S BIRTHDAY. WHERE BETTER TO DO SO THAN AT ONE OF OUR MOST FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN NAPLES @bleuprovencenaples

Southwest Floridians look forward to SIZZLE every year. Now bigger— over 130 participating restaurants, and longer—it runs for the entire month of September. Bleu Provence has supported this worthy cause for the past ten years in which for every meal purchased a dollar is donated to Blessings in a Back Pack. BLESSINGS distributes meals to school children who may go hungry on weekends. As soon as one enters the restaurant, one can see the framed Sizzle menu on the wall. It is also given to diners right away with the wine list, rather than as an afterthought, which has happened in a few cases. @blessingsswfl @sizzledining

Bleu Provence is an authentic French Provençal restaurant, owned by Lysielle and Jacques Cariot since 1999, it is now run by their sons Clément- responsible for the award-winning wine program, and Kevin Cariot, Gen. Mgr.. The chef is Gaspard Troulouppe, from Marseille, and he’s to be commended for every dish I’ve tried so far, including everything on its Sizzle Menu.

I’ve shown only a few pics of what we had to eat, but feel confident in saying there’s nothing on there you wouldn’t like, unless allergic. I tend to order a salad first as often don’t have any for lunch and the Goat Cheese Salad was so light and appetizing. While my heart belongs to Moules Marinière et frites, I love the Loup de Mer too, and chose the Apple Tart Tartin for dessert. Three courses for $49.00 is a good deal. Also, while its blue and white decor is elegant yet simple, Bleu Provence is the kind of fine dining restaurant that’s perfect for most any occasion. Located in Old Naples at 1234 8th Street.

Go to sizzledining.org for details.

#dinewithpurpose #blessingsinabackpack #feedhungrykids #swfl #frenchcuisine taken in Naples, Florida by @agwwriter

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21 days ago

BOOKS —THREE RINGLING CIRCUS BY SANDRA GURVIS. Gurvis’s fascinating book about the Ringling Brothers illuminates their past and present historical and cultural impact on Sarasota, Florida. The Ringling Family saw the Circus as a lively business venture and the brothers’ way of entertaining the masses through good, clean fun. More than that, the Ringling Brothers’ story is a significant part of Sarasota’s history.

Gurvis’s 18 books to date have included topics as disparate as quirky Ohio Curiosities, and Day Trips from Columbus (3rd edition) as well as two novels: The Pipe Dreamers, and Country Club Wives. She lived in Columbus for more than four decades before moving to Sarasota/Bradenton, Florida. She frequently gives talks and will be doing so on Wednesday, September 16 at Sarasota Garden Club, which is celebrating its 100th year. www.sandragurvis.com

#ringlingbrothers #sarasota_fl #bookstore #circus #readers taken in Sarasota, Florida by @agwwriter

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23 days ago

9/11 —A DAY TO REMEMBER. I was driving across Alligator Alley yesterday and came across several signs that said “UNITED WE STAND. WE WILL NEVER FORGET.”
True — We will never forget. As for united we stand, the feeling of brotherhood in this country afterwards was palpable, even from afar. It’s sad years later to find a political stake driven through our hearts dividing us in a way that seems to throw ‘Love thy neighbor’ out the window.

We all remember where we on 9/11 and whether through the power of media we saw one or both of the hijacked planes hit the Twin Towers. Then later, the towers and the people come tumbling down. I watched the second plane hit in real time on The Today Show — an unbelievable apocalyptic act, the kind one only had seen in the movies.
Twenty-one years have passed, but we will never forget those who died, and especially to honor those who died saving lives on September 11, 2001.
Speaking of brotherhood, those poignant photos of brave New York firemen come to mind. I was struck also by this magnificent new image, a seven-story mural in Manhattan called “The Brave of 9/11.” It’s by Brazilian artist Eduardo Korba, showing one of heroic firemen. It’s at 780 Third Ave.
📷 @nyclovesnyc
While we will never forget all the brave men and women that day, I hope it doesn’t take some other heinous act of terror to unite the people of this country once again.

#911 #fdny #twintowersnyc #mural #unitedwestand taken in New York City by @agwwriter

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25 days ago