Windy Mini Day!

I have been thinking a lot about making a Sailor's Valentine (explanation at the bottom of this post) with shells I have found, want to avoid buying any shells if possible.  I realize it's a tall order, but that's my goal anyway...so I need to find all the minis I can.  So today was going to be mini day.  I noticed while I was crossing the Causeway onto Sanibel that it appeared that the bay side of the Lighthouse was somewhat protected from the wind, so I thought I would start there.  I realize the tides are not right, but it's still worth a look, right?!...and I ALWAYS need some Beach Therapy!

I wasn't there but a couple of minutes when I saw this guy, high up on the beach...a tiny Lace Murex

That's a good start! ....with the wind so strong, and tides so high, I figured it would be tough to find the tiny minis, but in just a few minutes I had several small ones...

Coquina pair, Shark's eye, coral, small olive, Dosinia, and bubbles

Tiny worm shell, shark's eyes, Top Shell, Drill, coquina pair, oyster drill, keyhole limpet and jingles

Of course I couldn't resist the opportunity of a postcard photo op....

I didn't have much luck with the micro minis, but was a lovely walk anyway....

I had another miss with an Alphabet cone....merely a piece...

and I couldn't resist picking up another Lace Murex...

I love the Baby's ears too!

and I ALWAYS have to take a picture of my favorite lighthouse! :)

I stopped on my way home on the causeway for the sunset....

Another perfect day in Florida!!

Stay Tuned!

::Shelllady Hugs::

PS...for those of you that don't know what a Sailor's Valentine is...

A sailor's valentine is a form of shellcraft, a type of mostly antique souvenir, or sentimental gift made using large numbers of small seashells. These were originally made between 1830 and 1890, and they were designed to be brought home from a sailor's voyage at sea and given to the sailor's loved one or loved ones.^[1] Sailor valentines are typically octagonal, glass fronted, hinged wooden boxes ranging from 8 to 20 inches (20 to 51 cm) in width, displaying intricate symmetrical designs composed entirely of small sea shells of various colors glued onto a backing. Patterns often feature a centerpiece such as a compass rose or a heart design, hence the name, and in some cases the small shells are used to spell out a motto or sentimental message.

Just a couple of examples: