Sunset Progression
August 29, 2021
An afternoon storm leads to...
An outstanding sunset.
August 13, 2021
An afternoon storm leads to...
An outstanding sunset.
August 13, 2021
A trip to Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, FL
I have been driving by signs to Bok Tower for years when headed to other parts of Florida. Last month, with Ruth, we decided to stop. The gardens and the Singing Tower were beautiful. Since it was during the week, there were very few people. Unfortunately, it was a summer day in Florida: very hot, and very humid. They advertise a tram, but it was closed due to COVID so a lot of walking and we only covered a small part of the grounds. Well worth it, but if we go again it will be during cooler weather.
The history of Edward and Mary Louise Bok, the Singing Tower, and the Gardens are the subjects of many a book and website. Click here for the Wikipedia short version.
The Singing Tower is about a half-mile walk through the gardens
The Gothic Revival Tower is the highest spot in the Gardens. Named the Singing Tower because of its 60-bell carillon, it is built with marble from Georgia, and coquina stone from St. Augustine, FL. The tower is surrounded by a moat that is now a koi pond.
Trivia: there are carvings and paintings of flamingos. Unfortunately, attempts to introduce live flamingos failed because of the "cool" central Florida weather.
Off to the side and below the tower is an Exedra commissioned by Edward Bok's neighbors.
Amidst all the meticulous landscaping, it looked oddly neglected.
At the visitor's center, we were surprised by a demonstration of a unique Florida activity: Gator Wrestling, updated with the introduction of a cell phone.
August 13, 2021
Wandering the Westgate River Ranch Resort south of Orlando
(we stayed in Deluxe Teepees)
August 9-12, 2021
Tropical Depression Fred arrives at Anna Maria Island, Florida
August 14, 2021 approximately 3:30pm Eastern
Chihuly Collection
from a visit in May 2021