My Own Cruising Journal: a Nautical Gallery and Gift Shop in Lighthouse Point, Florida

My Own Cruising Journal , in Lighthouse Point, Florida,has it's roots in the talents of Pat Anderson, an artist with an island bent. Cruising with her husband, Captain Pete, years ago she kept a journal by drawing beatiful scenes of what she saw around her. This was in 1992. In 1996 she opened My Own Cruising Journal featuring some of her artwork. It carried tropical and marine inspired clothing. and still does. They carry shirts by Kahala of Hawaii that actually feature Pat's drawings in their design. Pat does the designs, the fabric is printed in Japan, put toegther in Hawaii and sold all over the world.

When you walk into My Own Cruising Journal the island feel just captures you. To the left is the men's area with Tommy Bahama shorts and shirts. Scanning around you see wonderful home decor, mugs, trays, statuary, all Island themed. There are beautiful tiled trays with Pat's designs in the tiles for $$64.00 and matching mugs for $12.99. There are wonderful placeants and vases as well as cutlery. You can buy gorgeous naplis and paper plates as well. Most with an Island theme. You can have this artist works in your home for that little cost. Pat's original artwork sells for up to $7000.00. Meet her in the store, she's usually there.They carry hand crafted trays and serving pieces by Mariposa.Mariposa makes cutlery, glass and ceramics. A twin palms Mariposa tray costs $134.00 others are around $60.00. Remember these are hand crafted by artisans so you are getting a work of art.

Look for the trademark pink and gren under the Lilly flag and you will find all the most beautiful Lilly Pulitzer clothing. The Lilly designs came from the clothing Lilly Pulitzer wore when she opened her juice stand in Palm Beach. People loved her prints. They were in fruit colors to hide the stains from the juice she was selling fresh squeezed. They have Lilly Pulitzer cable hoodie sweaters in the discount room, get them at the reduced price.

Brighton pocketbooks are behind the counter and all the accessories by Brighton are around as well. Brighton key chains, gorgeous Brighton belts, , lipstick cases or shoes are here.Brighton doesn't sell in department stores or on line. They will only allow stores that cater to their customers with excellent service to carry their merchandise. That says a lot about My Own Cruising Journal. You couldn't ask for more attentive and friendly personnel.

Their t shirts are sold to Marinas and at sports events that are top of the line. They carry Guy Harvey and Hook and Tackle. Hook and Tackle is authentic outdoor apparel for sport fishing enthusiasts and top pros. Hook and Tackle makes those fishing shirts with breathability that you see pro fishermen wearing. If your guy is into sport fishing you can outfit him here.

One room towards the back is all Jams World for children. The splash of color will let you know right away that your in Jams World. If you're looking for a special outift for a special child this room is full of wonderful pieces. The clothing is on shelves that look like a little TIki hut as well as hung around the room with more of Pat's art work behind it. It's a glow with Island color. Of course, they carry a complete line of Jams for adults, visors, shorts, sundresses, shifts and more. They also carry beautiful Fresh Produce clothing. Hats to go with any outfit you buy are everywhere. I had no idea Jams World made flip flops until I looked here.

Check out the sale room, there are lots of these top brands at reduced prices. There are candles and clothing and more on sale.

Tommy Bahama mens and womens wear is here. Gorgeous shirt and dresses in the Tommy Bahama fabulous silk material and soft prints. The displays put outfits together right down to the hats and scarves so you can put something together more easily. Check out the Tommy Bahama boat shoes. Excellent quality and a good selection.

If you want to do your shopping locally, avoid the crowds and find something exquisite this is the store. You'll come away with a very special gift that anyone would appreciate. o you want exquisite Christmas cards to send out, there are three dimensional cards available as well as boxed sets. If you need a special gift the staff will put a beautiful basket together for you. When I was there they had a shell wreath with goodies in the center. Speaking of shells there are baskets abounding in shells for sale and gorgeous iridiescent covered shell ornaments displayed on the Christmas tree.

Parking is ample as this is in a small shopping center right off Federal Highway. It is right around the corner from Offerdahl's if you want a great lunch or snack before or after shopping. It is wheelchair accessible. This is a very special store with very special items.