Here is a link to lots of Fort Myers Beach Businesses you can choose to support: www.fortmyersbeach.org/hurric... Consider supporting me on Patreon: / swfbeachlife
For 36 years, my husband and I have been owners of Tropical Sands Resort on Fort Myers Island! We donated to the RAL employee's who are now out of a job! I encourage one and all to support the families who have given us so much pleasure in visiting and being a part of paradise in Fort Myers Beach!❤
Hello I own MegaDri Restoration my team and I are heading to Assist with restoration Soon we are based out of Michigan ...thank you for the great Resort! My family and I have enjoyed it on several occasions
My wife and I have been going to Fort Myers Beach for many years. It breaks our hearts and we are praying for all who lost loved ones, friends, homes businesses. We not only lost our very favorite place we came to in all of Florida but we also lost our honeymoon spot Lahaina Inn and resorts. It’s completely gone. We loved being on Fort Myers Beach we loved the peaceful feeling that we got when we thought about it. It was our place on this earth of peace before we have eternal peace in heaven one day. We are praying for you all. We had plans of returning and finding a place to live on Fort Myers Beach or at least close as possible. Who knows it might still be possible someday God willing. My wife loves looking for shells and I have shared your RUclips videos with her. Thank you so much for your videos. Sincerely John & Nancy Wilkins - Indiana
Looks like the clean-up is fairly well organized. A lot of work ahead, but from the first fly-over videos from just after Ian and then today... I can see the improvements. Faster than expected. Step by step.... you'll get there. Praying for you all!
Im supporting Maria’s Garden in Punta Gorda who has a RUclips channel, as well. On my way to Ft Myers last year, I stopped at her garden to buy some of her plants & was happy I got to meet her & her husband. She lost her business & part of her home to Ian & all her vehicles. As soon as Ft Myers & Sanibel opens, I’m coming back down. Last year I visited for the first time & absolutely loved it. (caught the Key West Express to Key West, too.) Going to do it again as soon as things are up & running. Love & hugs to my childhood state of FL from GA.
Oh my gosh the Key West Express! I have tickets that are good until next year. They will be operating out of Marco Island so at least I can still take my trip down to Key West. Thank you for supporting Maria's Garden - everyone needs support right now!
I know for me I am absolutely not concerned with seeing seashells. I am concerned for the people of Florida and their well being. It is heart wrenching to see this footage. I also know without watching your channel I would have never known the true beauty of SWF prior to Ian. I am very thankful for that and for you. I am absolutely going to plan a trip to come support in the future and In the meantime I will support you and your efforts by becoming a patron! God Bless Florida 💕🙏
She saying she's going so she could support a business that was affected by the hurricane to help them make money so that is supporting me people of Florida
Thank you for keeping us abreast of all things SWF. It would be great to see how the areas progress and recover. Knowing the devastation and regrowth enables us to empathize with all effected. Sending our prayers to all.
You are so optimistic and strong! I can just hear it in your voice, that this entire thing has shaken you up. Rightfully so. 😔 been praying for you and every other Floridian 🏝 every morning I look at the shells you traded with me while I have my coffee. They’re an example of beautiful Florida. Remain strong ❤️
@@SWFBeachLife I absolutely love that saying. I'm not sure if you remember that I was looking at properties in fort Myers but decided to buy in Cocoa FL. We had no where near the devastating hits that SWF took. I was hoping and praying everyone would be ok, yes it can and will be rebuilt. I'm definitely going to be coming out someday soon, I'm disabled but it won't keep me from supporting the things that make me happy (Shelling, not much to find on my side of the state, or that I have found so far) keep us posted on when places to stay will be available for rental . #Keeponshelling
Thanks for keeping all of us updated. Between you and friends we have in Cape Coral and links to local SWFL news stations we can keep up with the recovery and see the current conditions. National news has the attention span of a 6 month old baby so they have already moved on. I remember the residents of Mexico Beach after Hurricane Michael who complained that nobody cared after about a couple months. Those of us who love to visit the towns, cities, beaches of southwest Florida will not forget and will be waiting for the time we can return.
I am disappointed in the national news media for not covering the recovery efforts! It's sad what happened in that beautiful state. I live in Southern Michigan so I don't know what's going on down there. I have to go to RUclips and find vlogs and videos to see how everything is going. I have family in Florida so I like to know what's going on. This happens every time a hurricane or other natural disasters happens, media moves on to other things & that's sad because this is a long recovery process. My thoughts are with you guys!!!
I lived through your videos, y'all are living the destruction but our hearts are with you. I will be back. To the area as soon as it's ready for visitors again. Swfl is mine and so many peoples happy place. Take care and thank you for the update.
We won’t forget! We promise!!! I was there at the beginning of September. My very first trip to Ft. Myers, Sanibel, Captiva, Cayo Costa, Naples, and Marco Island and the 10,000 Islands… and I fell in love with the entire area. I was already planning another trip hoping for the winter. As it turned out, that may have to be moved out a little while, but I will definitely be back when y’all are ready. I’m glad that you and your family are safe, that you are in good shape and able to help your neighbors and community. It will be a process, but slowly things will improve. The area will come back. It won’t be exactly the same, there will be businesses that don’t recover, there will be people who give up and move to higher ground. There will be changes. But in other ways, things will be better. New business will open. Buildings will be built stronger and lessons that are learned will improve safety in the future. While there’s really no way to even mentally prepare, let alone physically prepare for a catastrophic event as huge as this was, SWFL has handled it with grace, dignity, and caring for one another. The progress made so far has been impressive. I think your State Government and the National Government have put politics aside and cooperated in the best interest of the people and it is showing. I have seen cat 3 hurricane recoveries in person that didn’t move this swiftly. Sending lots of love and prayers, and support your way, and for all of SWFL. ❤
It's wonderful to hear from you. I've been thinking of you, my extended family and Floridians. I can't imagine how you all are feeling seeing the destruction on a daily basis. We'll be here even without the videos. ❤
Thank you for coming on and sharing what you're seeing. I live in Maryland and have had plans to go seashelling on Sanibel in March. Listening to you I am more optimistic that I really can go as planned. I appreciate you and pray for the best.
Thinking about you all. You are definitely not forgotten. We know of people here in Canada that had property there in Fort Myer's that have lost everything, so the effects are far reaching. Praying for everyone. 🙏❤️
My heart just broke when the hurricane hit and when it was done to see the devastation. I wanted to plan a trip there within the next year but I guess my plans will have to be delayed. It's a grievous thing because of all the wonderful memories I have of time spent at all the areas hit. I am so relieved to see people building back and stepping forward to get things in order. I was also shocked at how quickly the temporary causeway/bridge was accomplished. I think at that moment I could finally take a little breath and an even deeper breath to hear of the turtles, coyotes and manatees presence throughout the area. Life is rebuilding. I keep praying about the mold issues etc... that are manifesting as well as those who are putting in all those extra hours to help clean up. May God bless this area as He has in the past and may He protect those who live there...Amen! Thanks for sharing with us all the progress thus far. God bless! 💗🏖
I know it takes an incredible amount of time to rebuild. I'm so glad you have electricity and pretty good where you are. Still praying for everyone there as you recover. We lived through Hurricane Hugo (1989)...90 mile an hour winds for us, tall pine trees down everywhere, my parents were without power and water for 3 weeks. I know y'all are dealing with so much more! Don't worry about keeping up with videos, just update us as you can and focus on what you need to do there. We are still praying for you. Gov. DeSantis did an amazing job getting that temporary bridge up and running. ❤🙏Jane in SC
Mountains of shells at Thousand Islands. So glad you're ok, but this is just sad. Michael hit a week after I left Mexico Beach. They're still rebuilding. It takes a while. Keeping you tucked in my prayers. Much love. #SWFLStrong!
Thank you so much for doing this. My family is in Naples and I was able to see the destruction down there. You will not be forgotten. Please keep us updated. Maybe someday in the future we can all meet with you on a beautiful beach there and give you hugs.
I’m glad you are ok. Praying for everyone going through this. We had some damage in central Florida but minor compared to Fort Meyers and surrounding areas.
I have been to Sanibel a couple of times but it’s been quite a few years. I found your channel after the hurricane when I was trying to find out how the island had fared. Your beach-combing videos have been so soothing and I’m glad you’ve posted. Glad your family is ok. I hope to get back down there someday.
Sharmon..We can never forget you and everyone who went through this heartbraking tragedy. You are in our thoughts and prayers..Warm regards from South Africa..😍
Thank you for the update, Sharman. Please take a moment and allow yourself to grieve the loss suffered by so many. We can hear the heartbreak you are suffering in your voice. It's okay to not be so strong right now . . . even though your home may not have flooded, you have suffered a great trauma. I sincerely hope you have some good friends you can talk to, express your sorrow and maybe a little fear, and listen to their stories of loss and a hopeless feeling. And, no I'm not trying to pretend I'm a doctor or any such thing - I've just experienced trauma and know what it can do to a person. I'm thrilled you will be able to get on a beach and do some shelling next weekend. We know how healing the ocean can be, and I suspect it will be great medicine for you. Take it slow, recovery is not going to be a marathon; it's going to be a long journey down a path strewn with heartbreak. You and all affected by Ian will remain in my prayers for comfort and continued hope.
I will admit I was mourning a bit while on my shell tour today. I was happy to be out there looking for shells, but I was thinking of "our" beaches on Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel. I will probably not be able to go back for quite some time. Thank you for leaving such an insightful comment. I do promise to be kind to myself and not pretend to be okay if I am not. ❤️❤️❤️
Bless your heart , thank you for the update. I have very close friends that are owners on Sanibel , they lost 3 condos , heart breaking , I will be there to support those that have lost so much
Bless you for taking the time to share this, as usual, West coast news broadcasting stations have moved on to other "stories". Please continue to keep us posted with goings on, and reminding us of Hope and Love. We admire your strength. We definitely will come out to spend some tourist bucks in 2024. See you again soon. 💖🙏🏻
God bless you all! I pray for healing and support in every level. Your community will be here waiting for your return and updates. I still plan on coming to visit when the waters are opened and visitors are welcome.
I can not imagine driving through that …I would be crying for all the people who have lost so much and yet I KNOW the resilience and strength to make it beautiful again will prevail.
So sad to see all the destruction, but happy that clean up is already happening. I would love to follow along and watch things being rebuilt. Your positive attitude is amazing (although deep down you must be traumatized by it all) and I love your willingness to support the community. Please do let us know organizations or local companies we can help support too. I was actually planning on coming down this winter, so I will still plan on it when things start opening up again…maybe by next winter. But whatever type of video you make, we will still watch them! ❤️
So glad to hear from you. Been thinking about you especially as the usual video time approached. Prayers for all and appreciate your positive attitude and love for the beautiful place you call home.
No words to explain the hurt I feel for everyone. Praying for you and all that have been affected. 2024 sounds like a good time to find my way back down to paradise. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Whatever content you wish to film, I will gladly watch. It's inspiring to see people come together and work as one for the greater good! Wishing you all great success and looking forward to seeing the beauty of SWF come back to life!
I'm so glad the you and your family are ok. There are so many youtubers that I watch from Florida that are ok, still haven't heard from the shelling network.
Good morning. I started coming to Sanibel and Captiva in 1993. Then I took a hug break and returned in 2021. I know this area will return stronger and more prepared for the future. The construction materials and methods are better now so the new buildings that are erected will with stand future hurricanes. I thank you so much for just keeping us updated about your plans and what is happening in the area. As fore the future, you can trust that people will be back to stay and shop. This area to me is so beautiful and I feel I am not the only person that feels this way. My family loved the time we visited in 2021. We will be back in 2024 and 2025. Just keep up dating us! We wish you the very best.❤❤😊😊
Praying for all. This area of Florida is one I have wanted to see for a long, long time. I promise as soon as it is feasible I will be there. I'm grateful for your videos and all the beauty you have shared.
Can't thank you enough for sharing this video! It gives me a better sense of what my family sees and is dealing with. Although I've seen plenty of video of the hurricane, this video touches on a more personal note. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Hope all continues well for you and yours! Stay strong.
It's so wonderful to hear from you!! Our thoughts and prayers are definitely with you and everyone affected. All the footage and pictures are unbelievable. It will definitely take time, absolutely will be down to visit in the future!! Take care and keep us all posted💕
You did a great job telling your story. Things are happening so fast with clean up. All working together.🤗 This was a good week. Got electricity back on and good Samaritan able to fix roof. Very blessed here in North Fort Myers, my neighbors another level of anxiety. Your mind just spins, like it's not real or something. Red Cross has been great getting us hot food.
It’s a few years since my wife and I were at Fort Myers beach but as soon as it is possible we will be back to support the area . Kev and Sue Collis Hull England . Best wishes to you guys that have stuck it out 👍👍👍👍👍
Sharmon, you already know how much I adore you. I am so glad you are alright. I know you have damage to your home, but, YOU and your family are ok. I will help in anyway I can. The PTSD for me is going away….slowly. Thank you for inspiring me. For making me see, I too, love shelling. The tranquility and peace it can bring. Mean hurricane Ian is showing people resilience and strength.
Tough times bring out the best and the worst in people. I'm making sure I'm only brining my best - we all need patience, kindness and support right now! ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you so much for this video. The news stations really have not shown us the personal side of this hurricane. I don't think that anyone could foresee the amount of devastation that Ian caused. How heart breaking to have your whole life and the means to support your family swept away from you. Thank you for making it real to us. I live in California, far away from all of this destruction but seeing your video makes my heart hurt for these people and their community. It's good to hear you being so positive about rebuilding. It is so important to be positive and to instill that attitude in others, not to give up, this is just a temporary set-back, it will not last forever, you will endure.
My husband and I will be moving to Citrus County, Fla. in the new year. We had, and still DO expect your area to be a favorite weekend getaway spot. God bless you all!
I’m so glad you got back with us. Your voice has always been a soothing one now it is a somber one. I live in Va and we are so sorry for this devastation. I’ve watched about all the videos and am so sad for those affected.
Very sobering to see this level of destruction. Your channel puts a face to all of this for some of us. Floridians are up to this, with the help of each other and God.
I’m glad you all are doing good. I laid awake last night thinking about people sleeping in tents who lost everything. One man was sleeping on air mattress with no tent. I know Florida is warm but I’m sure some nights will get slightly chill. I worried about them if they was warm, hungry. I physically or financially can’t help but I can pray. Tonight for us who have food and roof over our head we are lucky and blessed.
Me too I thought about all of you. I know you are in your house but what you all went through and things I heard what happened to some was heartbreaking.
I started watching your channel around 2 years ago, I guess, and finally in October of 2021 made my first pilgrimage down to SWFL from Tennessee. Stayed on East Gulf on Sanibel and up until about a week before Ian came through, was planning to make another trip down with my husband and boys for another lovely fall break. I fell absolutely in love with the area after just one visit and can’t wait to get back. Something about crossing that causeway just pulls all stress and burdens from your body and nothing but pure relaxation fills your soul. God certainly knew what he was doing when he created Southwest Florida ❤
Thank you for sharing this. My husband and I don’t watch regular tv. This destruction is astonishing. We have NOT seen it reported as thorough as you have shown. It was a big eye opener. So glad your home stands and you are able to help others.
I've been glued to youtube every since Ian started. It's heart breaking but know I appreciate this video. I was just there 2 months ago and was headed back but Ian was stirring in the gulf so I waited. It's just hard to believe that all the beauty is now gone. In a matter of hrs. Sending love and prayers to all of SW florida. I'd love to come help out but haven't a clue on how or where to start. I'm binge watching your channel today.
I just have to say how terribly sorry I am for you and everyone who has had to live through this nightmare. My daughter was living on Fort Meyers Beach, and has lost everything, but she and her boyfriend are young, have supportive families, and will be okay. My heart is with all of the folks who have made a life here, invested everything, and have now lost not just the material things, but their community. We live on Martha’s Vineyard, and I can not imagine what this kind of storm would do to our island, our hearts and souls. Blessings on you all, you have a lot of love being sent your way.
Hi Sharmon, Seeing all those destroyed houses and boats piled up on the shore makes me sad, and also in awe. Mother nature can do whatever she wants, she's so strong. But it's also amazing to see the people hard at work to get everything cleaned and repairing power lines and more. If I would live closer, I would love to visit to put some money into the economy and letting the people know we don't forget them. If you will find a great charity I would love to donate. For now, I became a patreon, my way of helping you and the shelling community. 😘 Wishing you all the best, big hug and lots of love, xoxo ❤️, Ilona
My dearest Netherlands Beach Friend....thank you. I saw you pop up as a Patreon and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will put that money to good use - I promise. And in the meantime I hope YOU and your health are okay. ❤️❤️❤️
I still can’t believe how bad our little piece of paradise got hit. This was my first hurricane and I never want to experience anything like this ever again. Fort Myers Beach will never be the same beach that many of us fell in love with. My house did make it ok. I live in evac zone B and the flooding from the Calloosahatchee luckily stopped a couple streets over from where I live. My heart breaks for everybody who lost something because of this storm. We will rebuild and come back better than ever!!
We will be back better than ever! I am thankful to hear your house didn't flood. I came about 1" from having a very expensive problem in my home. I hope this means we won't see another hurricane for the rest of our lives!
OMG, what a devastation, I'm glad you're alive. It looks like this will take time to rebuild, but I hope things will settle down quickly and we'll see a beautiful Florida again😮😢❤
Thank you so much for posting this update; I’ve been thinking about you and your family and glad to hear things are somewhat “normal” for you. As a life-long Floridian, I’ve been through many, many hurricanes but none as devastating as this. Can’t wait until you’re able to have visitors; so glad we got to visit last year. Sanibel has always been my happy place. Much love to you and your family. ❤
We just rented a house in Fort Myers so that our guys can continue working there. But all of us in our family have talked about making a trip out that way when things are a little bit more together.. We really want to support the businesses and the people there. Florida has always been a special place to us so we’re going to be there next year for sure. Thank you for sharing this video with us you’re wonderful.
So great to hear from you, so thankful your family is safe and fortunate. My husband and I had reservations for this weekend for 2 weeks. Obviously we had to make other plans. We're going to Palm Beach and the Atlantic and then up to the panhandle. So we'll have to plan a trip for next year or the year after. I love this area of Florida and have been checking the videos daily. Be safe and keep us up to date!
Hi Sharmon! So glad you all are OK 👍 That place you passed on Ft. Myers Beach (time stamp 4:53) was the Salty Crab. My Fiance and I usually perform every Tuesday night starting in January through end of Aprl. We are so sad to see all the destruction and damage. It breaks our hearts to see this and for all you wonderful people in Florida .....what you are going through is just so awful. We are sad to say that ee won't be able to return this season because 3 of our 5 regular venues are totally demolished. But we will be back next year to share our gift of music and look forward to bringing smiles back to people's faces again. Florida strong! Love you all! ❤❤
Oh we had emailed back and forth didn't we? I think I have your schedule saved somewhere - even though it wasn't final. This is heartbreaking on so man levels but thank you for wanting to come back when we are ready! ❤️❤️❤️
I’m so sorry for all of you. I’ve been through a several disasters (Hurricane Ewa in HI back in the 80s, a tornado in 2019, and the recent freeze in TX) , and it’s amazing how people can pull together. Also, BOLO for survivor guilt-esp after the tornado, where three of my immediate neighbors had to take down their houses, while mine sustained livable damage, I was feeling super guilty for accepting well-wishes and being able to have a roof over my head. I’ll look for your recommendations for local support and videos on your community’s improvement in the future.
Hey, your area is just now beginning to clean up, and it will be a few years before it gets better. My husband and I go to PA in South Texas every year and they continue to clean up from Harvey, and that was about 4 years ago. Support and prayers will get the job done. You all can do it together ☺️. You do what you need to do, and the shells will still be there. Take care 🙂
My brother lives in North Port and they were hit pretty hard. Definitely not going to forget about y’all here in Northern Indiana! Sanibel is one of my favorite places on the entire planet…thank you for the update on the causeway to the island. I pray that all those with damage (homes and businesses) had good insurance so they can rebuild! A good business/commercial insurance policy will also help with the loss of income while rebuilding. And hopefully those unable to work can apply for unemployment during the rebuild process. ❤️
I can’t imagine what it’s like to be there and seeing all this firsthand. I bet there’s a lot of shells on the streets and parking lots around there. I wish I could go down and help. I would never forget my shelling buddy and teacher. ☺️🐬🐬 I’m so happy to hear you and your family are doing good. Let’s hope by summer of ‘23 that things will be getting along smoothly in the rebuilding of Fort Meyers and surrounding area. Take care and we’ll hear from you soon. ☺️🐬
Would love to come to Fort Myers beach after you guys tidy it up a bit! Seeing where my daughter lives would be great and supporting those local businesses would definitely make m e feel better knowing I helped in some small way. Glad you guys are safe!
For 36 years, my husband and I have been owners of Tropical Sands Resort on Fort Myers Island! We donated to the RAL employee's who are now out of a job! I encourage one and all to support the families who have given us so much pleasure in visiting and being a part of paradise in Fort Myers Beach!❤
RAL?
Hello I own MegaDri Restoration my team and I are heading to Assist with restoration Soon we are based out of Michigan ...thank you for the great Resort! My family and I have enjoyed it on several occasions
Great video so positive in the height of this disaster ❤️💯
Hopefully soon
@@ChappelleHakim where at in MI. That’s where I’m from
Your idea of documenting the comeback would be uplifting, and I'd definitely be interested in following the healing and revitalization. ❤
I agree, and understand its not your normal. but it would be wonderful through your eyes.
Yes!! I'm also interested in the updates!! My prayers go out to those who were affected 🙏🙏💔
You all are not forgotten!! God knows Florida paid a high price. We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers for restoration. Hugs!!
My wife and I have been going to Fort Myers Beach for many years. It breaks our hearts and we are praying for all who lost loved ones, friends, homes businesses. We not only lost our very favorite place we came to in all of Florida but we also lost our honeymoon spot Lahaina Inn and resorts. It’s completely gone. We loved being on Fort Myers Beach we loved the peaceful feeling that we got when we thought about it. It was our place on this earth of peace before we have eternal peace in heaven one day. We are praying for you all. We had plans of returning and finding a place to live on Fort Myers Beach or at least close as possible. Who knows it might still be possible someday God willing. My wife loves looking for shells and I have shared your RUclips videos with her. Thank you so much for your videos.
Sincerely John & Nancy Wilkins - Indiana
Looks like the clean-up is fairly well organized. A lot of work ahead, but from the first fly-over videos from just after Ian and then today... I can see the improvements. Faster than expected. Step by step.... you'll get there. Praying for you all!
Im supporting Maria’s Garden in Punta Gorda who has a RUclips channel, as well. On my way to Ft Myers last year, I stopped at her garden to buy some of her plants & was happy I got to meet her & her husband. She lost her business & part of her home to Ian & all her vehicles. As soon as Ft Myers & Sanibel opens, I’m coming back down. Last year I visited for the first time & absolutely loved it. (caught the Key West Express to Key West, too.) Going to do it again as soon as things are up & running. Love & hugs to my childhood state of FL from GA.
Oh my gosh the Key West Express! I have tickets that are good until next year. They will be operating out of Marco Island so at least I can still take my trip down to Key West. Thank you for supporting Maria's Garden - everyone needs support right now!
Praying for all who have been affected by this storm it’s devastating but I believe everyone will make it back stronger than ever
Thanks for the update.
So sorry for all who have been affected by Ian.
I have been praying for you all. 🙏❤️🏝
I know for me I am absolutely not concerned with seeing seashells. I am concerned for the people of Florida and their well being. It is heart wrenching to see this footage. I also know without watching your channel I would have never known the true beauty of SWF prior to Ian. I am very thankful for that and for you. I am absolutely going to plan a trip to come support in the future and In the meantime I will support you and your efforts by becoming a patron! God Bless Florida 💕🙏
Thank you Sara! I am behind in thanking my new Patrons but I will get to you soon! ❤️
She saying she's going so she could support a business that was affected by the hurricane to help them make money so that is supporting me people of Florida
There are no words to describe the loss SWFL has gone through. My heart and prayers to everyone🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻
I have no words other than...heartbreaking. 💔 My prayers to you and to everyone affected by Hurricane Ian. 🙏🙏🙏
Thank you for keeping us abreast of all things SWF. It would be great to see how the areas progress and recover. Knowing the devastation and regrowth enables us to empathize with all effected. Sending our prayers to all.
You are so optimistic and strong! I can just hear it in your voice, that this entire thing has shaken you up. Rightfully so. 😔 been praying for you and every other Floridian 🏝 every morning I look at the shells you traded with me while I have my coffee. They’re an example of beautiful Florida. Remain strong ❤️
I'm not a survivor - I am a warrior! We are all going to come out of this better and stronger than ever!
@@SWFBeachLife Amen
@@SWFBeachLife I absolutely love that saying. I'm not sure if you remember that I was looking at properties in fort Myers but decided to buy in Cocoa FL. We had no where near the devastating hits that SWF took. I was hoping and praying everyone would be ok, yes it can and will be rebuilt. I'm definitely going to be coming out someday soon, I'm disabled but it won't keep me from supporting the things that make me happy (Shelling, not much to find on my side of the state, or that I have found so far) keep us posted on when places to stay will be available for rental . #Keeponshelling
Thanks for keeping all of us updated. Between you and friends we have in Cape Coral and links to local SWFL news stations we can keep up with the recovery and see the current conditions. National news has the attention span of a 6 month old baby so they have already moved on. I remember the residents of Mexico Beach after Hurricane Michael who complained that nobody cared after about a couple months. Those of us who love to visit the towns, cities, beaches of southwest Florida will not forget and will be waiting for the time we can return.
I am disappointed in the national news media for not covering the recovery efforts! It's sad what happened in that beautiful state. I live in Southern Michigan so I don't know what's going on down there. I have to go to RUclips and find vlogs and videos to see how everything is going. I have family in Florida so I like to know what's going on. This happens every time a hurricane or other natural disasters happens, media moves on to other things & that's sad because this is a long recovery process. My thoughts are with you guys!!!
I’m glad you’re ok. Thanks for updating us
Thank you so very much for the update. Blessings to all.
I lived through your videos, y'all are living the destruction but our hearts are with you. I will be back. To the area as soon as it's ready for visitors again. Swfl is mine and so many peoples happy place. Take care and thank you for the update.
We won’t forget! We promise!!! I was there at the beginning of September. My very first trip to Ft. Myers, Sanibel, Captiva, Cayo Costa, Naples, and Marco Island and the 10,000 Islands… and I fell in love with the entire area. I was already planning another trip hoping for the winter. As it turned out, that may have to be moved out a little while, but I will definitely be back when y’all are ready. I’m glad that you and your family are safe, that you are in good shape and able to help your neighbors and community. It will be a process, but slowly things will improve. The area will come back. It won’t be exactly the same, there will be businesses that don’t recover, there will be people who give up and move to higher ground. There will be changes. But in other ways, things will be better. New business will open. Buildings will be built stronger and lessons that are learned will improve safety in the future. While there’s really no way to even mentally prepare, let alone physically prepare for a catastrophic event as huge as this was, SWFL has handled it with grace, dignity, and caring for one another. The progress made so far has been impressive. I think your State Government and the National Government have put politics aside and cooperated in the best interest of the people and it is showing. I have seen cat 3 hurricane recoveries in person that didn’t move this swiftly. Sending lots of love and prayers, and support your way, and for all of SWFL. ❤
Well said! I am proud to live here and I hope we can all feel at least a little bit normal soon!
It's wonderful to hear from you. I've been thinking of you, my extended family and Floridians. I can't imagine how you all are feeling seeing the destruction on a daily basis. We'll be here even without the videos. ❤
Thank you for coming on and sharing what you're seeing. I live in Maryland and have had plans to go seashelling on Sanibel in March. Listening to you I am more optimistic that I really can go as planned. I appreciate you and pray for the best.
Thank you for the update. Continued prayers for you and all of Florida effected by the terrible storm. 🙏🙏
Thinking about you all. You are definitely not forgotten. We know of people here in Canada that had property there in Fort Myer's that have lost everything, so the effects are far reaching. Praying for everyone. 🙏❤️
Thank you for the update! To hear your voice is wonderful. Thinking of all of you in SWF
My husband and I definitely plan to visit when things are better. Prayers for everyone affected by the hurricane. 🙏🙏🙏
My heart just broke when the hurricane hit and when it was done to see the devastation. I wanted to plan a trip there within the next year but I guess my plans will have to be delayed. It's a grievous thing because of all the wonderful memories I have of time spent at all the areas hit. I am so relieved to see people building back and stepping forward to get things in order. I was also shocked at how quickly the temporary causeway/bridge was accomplished. I think at that moment I could finally take a little breath and an even deeper breath to hear of the turtles, coyotes and manatees presence throughout the area. Life is rebuilding. I keep praying about the mold issues etc... that are manifesting as well as those who are putting in all those extra hours to help clean up. May God bless this area as He has in the past and may He protect those who live there...Amen! Thanks for sharing with us all the progress thus far. God bless! 💗🏖
I’m at a loss for words. I’m glad you’re ok. Wow… I’ll be watching.
Thank you for the update. It looks like a war zone. I’m praying for everyone affected by Ian. God bless you!
Heartbreaking. I retire next year and had thought about a trip to Florida, and your video encourages me to go ahead and plan that.
I know it takes an incredible amount of time to rebuild. I'm so glad you have electricity and pretty good where you are. Still praying for everyone there as you recover. We lived through Hurricane Hugo (1989)...90 mile an hour winds for us, tall pine trees down everywhere, my parents were without power and water for 3 weeks. I know y'all are dealing with so much more! Don't worry about keeping up with videos, just update us as you can and focus on what you need to do there. We are still praying for you. Gov. DeSantis did an amazing job getting that temporary bridge up and running. ❤🙏Jane in SC
I so agree!!!
Mountains of shells at Thousand Islands. So glad you're ok, but this is just sad. Michael hit a week after I left Mexico Beach. They're still rebuilding. It takes a while. Keeping you tucked in my prayers. Much love. #SWFLStrong!
Thank you so much for doing this. My family is in Naples and I was able to see the destruction down there. You will not be forgotten. Please keep us updated. Maybe someday in the future we can all meet with you on a beautiful beach there and give you hugs.
I would love that!
I’m glad you are ok. Praying for everyone going through this. We had some damage in central Florida but minor compared to Fort Meyers and surrounding areas.
Exactly
I have been to Sanibel a couple of times but it’s been quite a few years. I found your channel after the hurricane when I was trying to find out how the island had fared. Your beach-combing videos have been so soothing and I’m glad you’ve posted. Glad your family is ok. I hope to get back down there someday.
We would NEVER forget you all!!!! Much Love and Blessings....Always
Sharmon..We can never forget you and everyone who went through this heartbraking tragedy. You are in our thoughts and prayers..Warm regards from South Africa..😍
❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Thank you for the update, Sharman. Please take a moment and allow yourself to grieve the loss suffered by so many. We can hear the heartbreak you are suffering in your voice. It's okay to not be so strong right now . . . even though your home may not have flooded, you have suffered a great trauma. I sincerely hope you have some good friends you can talk to, express your sorrow and maybe a little fear, and listen to their stories of loss and a hopeless feeling. And, no I'm not trying to pretend I'm a doctor or any such thing - I've just experienced trauma and know what it can do to a person. I'm thrilled you will be able to get on a beach and do some shelling next weekend. We know how healing the ocean can be, and I suspect it will be great medicine for you. Take it slow, recovery is not going to be a marathon; it's going to be a long journey down a path strewn with heartbreak. You and all affected by Ian will remain in my prayers for comfort and continued hope.
Well said Suzi. Sharmon, thank you, and take care.🙏🤗🤗
I will admit I was mourning a bit while on my shell tour today. I was happy to be out there looking for shells, but I was thinking of "our" beaches on Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel. I will probably not be able to go back for quite some time. Thank you for leaving such an insightful comment. I do promise to be kind to myself and not pretend to be okay if I am not. ❤️❤️❤️
Bless your heart , thank you for the update. I have very close friends that are owners on Sanibel , they lost 3 condos , heart breaking , I will be there to support those that have lost so much
Thanks for the update, Sharmon. Glad you’re doing ok! SW Florida is definitely not forgotten. ❤️
Bless you for taking the time to share this, as usual, West coast news broadcasting stations have moved on to other "stories". Please continue to keep us posted with goings on, and reminding us of Hope and Love. We admire your strength.
We definitely will come out to spend some tourist bucks in 2024.
See you again soon. 💖🙏🏻
I've said it before and I'll say it again. I love your show!! God bless.
❤️
Prayers for all. You showed more of the distruction than I saw on the news. God bless you. Can not even imagine.🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼😔
God bless you all! I pray for healing and support in every level. Your community will be here waiting for your return and updates. I still plan on coming to visit when the waters are opened and visitors are welcome.
Wow,so glad you and others are ok. Looks like a bomb went offf. Thanks for the pics.love you guys
I can not imagine driving through that …I would be crying for all the people who have lost so much and yet I KNOW the resilience and strength to make it beautiful again will prevail.
I live in Colorado and have donated to help, this is very, very sad . We won’t forget about you guys I will continue to donate
Thank you so much for helping my community! 🙏🏼
I am praying for all those who have had there lives turned upside down! Hugs to you all!
I look at all that destruction and think "Where do we start?!" I hope you are okay and appreciate your update.
Basically. It's just one thing at a time. It really is overwhelming.
So sad to see all the destruction, but happy that clean up is already happening. I would love to follow along and watch things being rebuilt. Your positive attitude is amazing (although deep down you must be traumatized by it all) and I love your willingness to support the community. Please do let us know organizations or local companies we can help support too. I was actually planning on coming down this winter, so I will still plan on it when things start opening up again…maybe by next winter. But whatever type of video you make, we will still watch them! ❤️
So glad to hear from you. Been thinking about you especially as the usual video time approached. Prayers for all and appreciate your positive attitude and love for the beautiful place you call home.
No words to explain the hurt I feel for everyone. Praying for you and all that have been affected. 2024 sounds like a good time to find my way back down to paradise. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Whatever content you wish to film, I will gladly watch. It's inspiring to see people come together and work as one for the greater good! Wishing you all great success and looking forward to seeing the beauty of SWF come back to life!
🙏🏼
Thank you for keeping us updated and don’t worry we will continue to support you and the Ft. Meyers, Sanibel, and Captiva island areas. ❤
I'm so glad the you and your family are ok. There are so many youtubers that I watch from Florida that are ok, still haven't heard from the shelling network.
Good morning. I started coming to Sanibel and Captiva in 1993. Then I took a hug break and returned in 2021. I know this area will return stronger and more prepared for the future. The construction materials and methods are better now so the new buildings that are erected will with stand future hurricanes. I thank you so much for just keeping us updated about your plans and what is happening in the area. As fore the future, you can trust that people will be back to stay and shop. This area to me is so beautiful and I feel I am not the only person that feels this way. My family loved the time we visited in 2021. We will be back in 2024 and 2025. Just keep up dating us! We wish you the very best.❤❤😊😊
Thank you for keeping us updated. Prayers going up for all affected by the storms.
Praying for all. This area of Florida is one I have wanted to see for a long, long time. I promise as soon as it is feasible I will be there. I'm grateful for your videos and all the beauty you have shared.
Can't thank you enough for sharing this video! It gives me a better sense of what my family sees and is dealing with. Although I've seen plenty of video of the hurricane, this video touches on a more personal note. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Hope all continues well for you and yours! Stay strong.
It's so wonderful to hear from you!! Our thoughts and prayers are definitely with you and everyone affected. All the footage and pictures are unbelievable. It will definitely take time, absolutely will be down to visit in the future!! Take care and keep us all posted💕
You did a great job telling your story. Things are happening so fast with clean up. All working together.🤗 This was a good week. Got electricity back on and good Samaritan able to fix roof. Very blessed here in North Fort Myers, my neighbors another level of anxiety. Your mind just spins, like it's not real or something. Red Cross has been great getting us hot food.
Oh I'm glad you have your power back! It's amazing how quickly we depend on the simple conveniences. I hoe you continue to recover and rebuild!
Check on you guys everyday.I will come visit when y’all are ready. Praying for all
It’s a few years since my wife and I were at Fort Myers beach but as soon as it is possible we will be back to support the area . Kev and Sue Collis Hull England . Best wishes to you guys that have stuck it out 👍👍👍👍👍
Sharmon, you already know how much I adore you. I am so glad you are alright. I know you have damage to your home, but, YOU and your family are ok. I will help in anyway I can. The PTSD for me is going away….slowly. Thank you for inspiring me. For making me see, I too, love shelling. The tranquility and peace it can bring. Mean hurricane Ian is showing people resilience and strength.
Tough times bring out the best and the worst in people. I'm making sure I'm only brining my best - we all need patience, kindness and support right now! ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you so much for this video. The news stations really have not shown us the personal side of this hurricane. I don't think that anyone could foresee the amount of devastation that Ian caused. How heart breaking to have your whole life and the means to support your family swept away from you. Thank you for making it real to us. I live in California, far away from all of this destruction but seeing your video makes my heart hurt for these people and their community. It's good to hear you being so positive about rebuilding. It is so important to be positive and to instill that attitude in others, not to give up, this is just a temporary set-back, it will not last forever, you will endure.
Wish we had a governor like Desantis. He has morals, sound speech, wisdom, and is a superb example of commitment to the people of FL. Enough said.
My husband and I will be moving to Citrus County, Fla. in the new year. We had, and still DO expect your area to be a favorite weekend getaway spot. God bless you all!
I’m so glad you got back with us. Your voice has always been a soothing one now it is a somber one. I live in Va and we are so sorry for this devastation. I’ve watched about all the videos and am so sad for those affected.
Very sobering to see this level of destruction. Your channel puts a face to all of this for some of us. Floridians are up to this, with the help of each other and God.
I’m glad you all are doing good. I laid awake last night thinking about people sleeping in tents who lost everything. One man was sleeping on air mattress with no tent. I know Florida is warm but I’m sure some nights will get slightly chill. I worried about them if they was warm, hungry. I physically or financially can’t help but I can pray. Tonight for us who have food and roof over our head we are lucky and blessed.
Its chilly here today and for the next few days. I hope that everyone that needs help gets it! 🙏🏼
Me too I thought about all of you. I know you are in your house but what you all went through and things I heard what happened to some was heartbreaking.
I started watching your channel around 2 years ago, I guess, and finally in October of 2021 made my first pilgrimage down to SWFL from Tennessee. Stayed on East Gulf on Sanibel and up until about a week before Ian came through, was planning to make another trip down with my husband and boys for another lovely fall break. I fell absolutely in love with the area after just one visit and can’t wait to get back. Something about crossing that causeway just pulls all stress and burdens from your body and nothing but pure relaxation fills your soul. God certainly knew what he was doing when he created Southwest Florida ❤
We will rebuild for sure and I know it will be as wonderful as we all remember. ❤️
Thank you for sharing this. My husband and I don’t watch regular tv. This destruction is astonishing. We have NOT seen it reported as thorough as you have shown. It was a big eye opener. So glad your home stands and you are able to help others.
I’m so glad you’re able to keep us updated. It is kinda depressing how quickly a story will fall off of broadcast news.
They dropped coverage almost immediately. Had this been California ...?you would still get hourly msnbc updates imo.
Prayers for everyone touched by this disaster!!!🙏
Thank you for sharing these images with us. I would really like to see you document the progress and restoration of your area of Florida.
Will do!
i was thinking about you and wondering where you lived. Happy to see that you and yours are safe.
Thank you for giving an update!!! Definitely on my trip list!! Stay safe, keep us posted when you can. ❤️👏🙏🏼
I've been glued to youtube every since Ian started. It's heart breaking but know I appreciate this video. I was just there 2 months ago and was headed back but Ian was stirring in the gulf so I waited. It's just hard to believe that all the beauty is now gone. In a matter of hrs. Sending love and prayers to all of SW florida. I'd love to come help out but haven't a clue on how or where to start. I'm binge watching your channel today.
I just have to say how terribly sorry I am for you and everyone who has had to live through this nightmare. My daughter was living on Fort Meyers Beach, and has lost everything, but she and her boyfriend are young, have supportive families, and will be okay. My heart is with all of the folks who have made a life here, invested everything, and have now lost not just the material things, but their community. We live on Martha’s Vineyard, and I can not imagine what this kind of storm would do to our island, our hearts and souls. Blessings on you all, you have a lot of love being sent your way.
Thank you Jane. My heart breaks for the very same reason. ❤️
Sending positive thoughts to Florida, so sad.
Hi Sharmon,
Seeing all those destroyed houses and boats piled up on the shore makes me sad, and also in awe.
Mother nature can do whatever she wants, she's so strong.
But it's also amazing to see the people hard at work to get everything cleaned and repairing power lines and more.
If I would live closer, I would love to visit to put some money into the economy and letting the people know we don't forget them.
If you will find a great charity I would love to donate.
For now, I became a patreon, my way of helping you and the shelling community. 😘
Wishing you all the best, big hug and lots of love, xoxo ❤️, Ilona
My dearest Netherlands Beach Friend....thank you. I saw you pop up as a Patreon and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will put that money to good use - I promise. And in the meantime I hope YOU and your health are okay. ❤️❤️❤️
I still can’t believe how bad our little piece of paradise got hit. This was my first hurricane and I never want to experience anything like this ever again. Fort Myers Beach will never be the same beach that many of us fell in love with.
My house did make it ok. I live in evac zone B and the flooding from the Calloosahatchee luckily stopped a couple streets over from where I live. My heart breaks for everybody who lost something because of this storm. We will rebuild and come back better than ever!!
We will be back better than ever! I am thankful to hear your house didn't flood. I came about 1" from having a very expensive problem in my home. I hope this means we won't see another hurricane for the rest of our lives!
You could always talk to us about your collections ND how you store them. It's so great to know you fared so well.
OMG, what a devastation, I'm glad you're alive. It looks like this will take time to rebuild, but I hope things will settle down quickly and we'll see a beautiful Florida again😮😢❤
Thank you so much for posting this update; I’ve been thinking about you and your family and glad to hear things are somewhat “normal” for you. As a life-long Floridian, I’ve been through many, many hurricanes but none as devastating as this. Can’t wait until you’re able to have visitors; so glad we got to visit last year. Sanibel has always been my happy place. Much love to you and your family. ❤
We just rented a house in Fort Myers so that our guys can continue working there. But all of us in our family have talked about making a trip out that way when things are a little bit more together.. We really want to support the businesses and the people there. Florida has always been a special place to us so we’re going to be there next year for sure. Thank you for sharing this video with us you’re wonderful.
Thank you so much for planning to come here and support our area! ❤️
So great to hear from you, so thankful your family is safe and fortunate. My husband and I had reservations for this weekend for 2 weeks. Obviously we had to make other plans. We're going to Palm Beach and the Atlantic and then up to the panhandle. So we'll have to plan a trip for next year or the year after. I love this area of Florida and have been checking the videos daily. Be safe and keep us up to date!
Thank you for sharing this. My heart aches for all of the devastation on these beaches.
Hi Sharmon! So glad you all are OK 👍 That place you passed on Ft. Myers Beach (time stamp 4:53) was the Salty Crab. My Fiance and I usually perform every Tuesday night starting in January through end of Aprl. We are so sad to see all the destruction and damage. It breaks our hearts to see this and for all you wonderful people in Florida .....what you are going through is just so awful. We are sad to say that ee won't be able to return this season because 3 of our 5 regular venues are totally demolished. But we will be back next year to share our gift of music and look forward to bringing smiles back to people's faces again. Florida strong! Love you all! ❤❤
Oh we had emailed back and forth didn't we? I think I have your schedule saved somewhere - even though it wasn't final. This is heartbreaking on so man levels but thank you for wanting to come back when we are ready! ❤️❤️❤️
I’m so sorry for all of you. I’ve been through a several disasters (Hurricane Ewa in HI back in the 80s, a tornado in 2019, and the recent freeze in TX) , and it’s amazing how people can pull together. Also, BOLO for survivor guilt-esp after the tornado, where three of my immediate neighbors had to take down their houses, while mine sustained livable damage, I was feeling super guilty for accepting well-wishes and being able to have a roof over my head. I’ll look for your recommendations for local support and videos on your community’s improvement in the future.
We love it down there. Hoping to come back soon! Prayers 🙏🙏
Glad you are safe! We evacuated Fort Myers Tuesday night since we live on the water. Such devastation when we returned Thursday 😢 SWFL Strong! ❤
We will come back for sure. Great outlook SWF Beachlife
Thanks so much for the update.
Hey, your area is just now beginning to clean up, and it will be a few years before it gets better. My husband and I go to PA in South Texas every year and they continue to clean up from Harvey, and that was about 4 years ago. Support and prayers will get the job done. You all can do it together ☺️. You do what you need to do, and the shells will still be there. Take care 🙂
Great to hear from you this evening! Keep on keepin' on one day at a time!
My brother lives in North Port and they were hit pretty hard. Definitely not going to forget about y’all here in Northern Indiana! Sanibel is one of my favorite places on the entire planet…thank you for the update on the causeway to the island. I pray that all those with damage (homes and businesses) had good insurance so they can rebuild! A good business/commercial insurance policy will also help with the loss of income while rebuilding. And hopefully those unable to work can apply for unemployment during the rebuild process. ❤️
Thank you for the update. Glad to hear you are ok.
My son's family lives there - so I'll be coming down again as soon as is possible. Thanks for this.
I can’t imagine what it’s like to be there and seeing all this firsthand. I bet there’s a lot of shells on the streets and parking lots around there. I wish I could go down and help. I would never forget my shelling buddy and teacher. ☺️🐬🐬
I’m so happy to hear you and your family are doing good. Let’s hope by summer of ‘23 that things will be getting along smoothly in the rebuilding of Fort Meyers and surrounding area.
Take care and we’ll hear from you soon. ☺️🐬
Would love to come to Fort Myers beach after you guys tidy it up a bit! Seeing where my daughter lives would be great and supporting those local businesses would definitely make m e feel better knowing I helped in some small way. Glad you guys are safe!
Thanks for your work
WOW!! That is just so sad. I am just happy to hear your voice. May God give you all the strength and provisions you guys need.