Bill's Blog

An afternoon storm leads to...

An outstanding sunset.

Coming in to watch the sunset (and drink wine)

Sunset Progression

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

Reflecting Pond

Approaching the Tower

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. 

A working sundial on the side of the tower.

Sundial closeup, with dedication by President Calvin Coolidge.

Views from the base of the tower

Lots of things left to age gracefully

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.  

Carved into the marble.

View from the Exedra

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.

'Sorry about the quality, it was a very bright day.

August 13, 2021

Wandering the Westgate River Ranch Resort south of Orlando
(we stayed in Deluxe Teepees)

Where the buffalo roam...

"Water" Buffalo

Being ignored

Surly "Water" Buffalo up close

Herd 'o Buffalo

The front one is a youngster without full plumage

Don't get too close: sharp beaks and they spit

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

Very strange: lighting in the room was solid blue but the camera added the stripes

Jodi and Ruth in Chihuly!