Reaching for the Sun

I was pleasantly surprised to see these sunflowers along Lockwood Ridge Rd. in Sarasota because I don't recall seeing many here in the Sunshine State.  These are located next to a landscape nursery, but unfortunately, there isn't a place to safely pullover nearby.  I thought about cruising by, but the combination of brilliant flowers, bright blue sky and that delightful puffy cloud was just too much to resist.  The block I hoofed in heels in the 92 degree heat was worth it. 

Lady in Red

I couldn't help but notice the Lady in Red standing at the stern of this sailboat as she frantically waved at someone in Sarasota Bay approaching the dock.  Or so it appeared.  She twirled a white towel over her head, flicked it by her side and and snapped it in front of her for minutes on end.  I was really intrigued because no one was there.  Not a soul.  She then hopped onto the dock, danced (imagine long fluid, twirling moves) to the nearest trash receptacle where she deposited something which clearly had to be thrown away that instant, then pranced back to the boat.  Oh...and this all happened during a rain shower.  Perhaps that's why the boat is called "Luna Sea".

Library Buddies

This is the view looking out from the entrance of the Selby Public Library in downtown Sarasota.  I love statue that sits on a bench just outside the door.  It's called "Best Friends" by Chris Navarro -- a little boy reading a book to his dog.

Watery Wednesday - No Oil

Perfect day to enjoy the bright blue sky and sugary white sand at Siesta Key beach.  Still no oil here, even after Tropical Storm Bonnie buzzed through last Friday.  I'm growing more confident with every day that we might just avoid it.  **(fingers crossed)**  To view Water Wednesday captures from around the globe click here.

Rosemary Court Pathway

Several businesses are run out of this house at the end of the brick pathway at Rosemary Court, including an organic vegetable co-op, yoga instruction and massage therapy.  It's a very interesting property, located a few blocks north of downtown Sarasota in an eclectic neighborhood known as the Rosemary District.  I seem to have problems photographing this area due to lighting issues because of the time of day I can get there.  It's always fun, though, just to wander around and I'll look forward to my next adventure there.  Previously, I've posted the entrance to Rosemary Court here; and a harrowing experience I had with a snake and a cat here.  

Chop House

I love the entrance of the First Street Chop House in downtown Sarasota, with the ivy covered wall, white trimmed windows and old fashioned lighting.  It opened about six months ago and I  haven't eaten there yet, but the menu and ambiance look great.  It's definitely on the list to check out.

Round 'n Round

Sarasota is taking on a European flair with...roundabouts.  Several are in the planning stages and this one, under construction right in the heart of downtown, should be finished by Labor Day.  This area is known as Five Points, where three streets converge, creating a five pointed intersection.  Both as a motorist and a pedestrian, I've always found the traffic patterns here a bit confusing.  So, hopefully, the roundabout will make it easier for everyone to navigate.  Round 'n round we shall go!  Standby for photos of the finished product.