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What are you waiting for?
By MARY JANE PARK
© St. Petersburg Times, published November 9, 2000
As many other people in the country brace for cold temperatures, Floridians are basking in balmy days and cool nights, excellent weather for rediscovering nature's wonders. Consider these goodies when heading for the great outdoors.
[Times photo: Patty Yablonski] |
Pack up your kit bag for al fresco pleasures under the full moon on Saturday. This backpack has plates and flatware for two, plus goblets, a corkscrew, salt and pepper shakers, fabric napkins and a sharp knife. There's plenty of room for picnic fare, and the attached insulated cooler keeps beverages chilled. Picnic backpack, $49.97. Stein Mart.
[Times photo: Patty Yablonski] |
Stay up late or rise early: Jupiter and Saturn are at their best and brightest this month. Look for them to rise in the eastern sky. You don't have to have a telescope or binoculars to see planets or constellations. Just go outside and look heavenward. If you can't distinguish the Big Dipper or Orion, a basic astronomy text will help. One we like: The Stars: A New Way to See Them by H.A. Rey (Houghton Mifflin Co.), $11.95 paperback, at brick-and-mortar and online booksellers.
[Times photo: Patty Yablonski] |
Whether you're camping in the woods, fishing from a pier or stargazing in your back yard, you'll rest easier in this portable chair. Made of heavy-duty polyester, it has a padded back, measures 29 inches high by 20 inches wide, weighs 6.4 pounds and has its own carrying case. Northwest Territory folding deluxe quad chair, $6.49. Kmart.
[Times photo: Patty Yablonski] |
Magic wands? Sort of. Lutz metalworker Taju fashions big bubble makers in the shapes of stars, hearts, fairies, butterflies, crescent moons and more. $18 each. Nature of Art Gallery, St. Pete Beach.
[Times photo: Patty Yablonski] |
Keep the lines of communication open with these walkie talkie radios, excellent for keeping tabs on little ones who may meander off the beaten path at camp sites or outdoor festivals. Each requires a 9-volt battery. Discovery Channel cool communication walkie talkies, $9.99. Target.
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