The Mid Florida Winnies Travel to Sarasota

In mid December our Winnebago group went to the Sun and Fun RV Park for several days of fun and, of course, our monthly meeting.  It was billed as a Christmas Party by the hosts Bob and Kathy Olson and Bob and Lynn Czaesar.

One of the things we really enjoyed was the opportunity to visit the Marie Selby Gardens that sit on property abutting the Gulf.  Such a beautiful setting although the strong cool breezes made it a might brisk to spend alot of time near the water.

These gardens are best known for their huge collection of "air" plants -- epiphytes including orchids and bromeliads.  They had a huge greenhouse filled with a fantastic display of them.

Including this intriguing "ant plant"found in Malesia

Outside there was a wonderful "children's garden" area with board walks, play areas, intriguing signs and displays to capture interest.  This big hugging tree with the explanatory sign that better tells a bit more about air plants.  Note the huge banyon tree behind it.

This was one of the intriguing walkways showing off the air plants and unusual trees.

This is a sampling of several of the air plants spotted in nearby trees

One of the things we discovered is that there are several types of bamboo trees and they come in different colors.  Here is a spot where three different types are growing.

This egret was enjoying the plantings near the water.

This home of friends who lived next door to the Selby's has now become part of the garden area and is used to display beautiful art work as well as give visitors an opportunity to enjoy the unique architecture inside.  The owner loved curves and shapes and did some interesting things like creating a staircase to a second floor balcony that looked out on the patio and water and beautifully arched doorways.

This lovely display of air plants and tropical plants was outside the home.

We also enjoyed a trip over to see what is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.  It was quite cool so there were very few people enjoying this huge expanse of white sands.

Here I am with friends Bette and Frank Foulke

Part of the fun at the campout was the "bad"Christmas shirt contest

 The creation of reindeer antlers with panty hose and balloons

 And each team creating a Christmas tree person using a sheet of foil, two rolls of rolled crepe paper and tape.  I'm the tree on the left.  Aren't I lovely??? Actually that was the winner. :-)

Here is a close up of two of us: me on the left and Frank Foulke on the right.