*Sigh*

     This week for outdoor Wednesday I'm wishful thinking. The pictures were sent to me by my dad, who was on this beautiful yacht yesterday. It is a floating art gallery and it just happened to float into Sarasota, FL for a few days. Dad didn't realize he would be "guest posting" when he took the pictures, but since it is so much prettier there than  around here...he got the job. Dad said the privately owned yacht was 283 feet long and had a crew of 7. It is owned by a couple who sail the world, showcasing the artwork of others. That is all I know...but, dad was impressed by the ship and the art.

The peacocks are covered in crystals and the feathers are real.

Now that you've been to Florida,

I'll show you a little of Illinois this week.

This is what pussy willows look like if you don't pick them.

They usually don't have snow on them!

I am joining Susan @ A Southern Daydreamer

for Outdoor Wednesday. Please visit her today!

Siesta Key Sandsculpting Competition-How Do They Do That?

     I don't know about the rest of you, but I've been so busy the past couple of days that my blogging has slowed down to almost a crawl. When I have had time to sit down, I can't stay awake. Today is also going to be a busy day, so I was really glad when my dad sent me these pictures last night and I could share them with you. A few days ago, my dad strolled over to the public beach to check out the the sand sculpture competition. I've never seen one of these myself, but I've always wanted to. I am in awe at what these artists can do with a little sand, a lot of talent and according to my dad...a spray bottle of water mixed with a little white glue. I want to thank my dad for his "guest blog"!

Dad said the artist told him that all of these "things" are

pouring out the guy's nose. When asked if that just

evolved as he went along, the artist said "that is the way it works"!

I think this one is y favorite. I love

 the flowers, do you see the ladybug?

The next two photos show the overall winner, Circle of Life.

I think this photo shows you just how beautiful Siesta Key is.

I feel very lucky my parents have been living there for many years.

It is a great place to think of as my second home!

The view from dad's balcony when he got home.

I am going to join The Tablescaper for Seasonal Sundays.

This certainly isn't seasonal where I live, but it is seasonal

if you live in paradise!

Dale Chihuly:A New Eden-Outdoor Wednesday

     I first became aware of Dale Chihuly's stunning glass art when he had an exhibit a few years ago at the St. Louis Botanical Garden. For the first time in my life I can honestly say I was completely memerized by an artist's work. His use of color, shape and the way he blended his art in with the environment truly took my breath away. Once you see a Chihuly piece, you will recognize his work anywhere. I have waited patiently for him to have another exhibit within driving distance of my home, this year he has two!

     Two weeks ago, on our way home from a few days in Traverse City, we stopped at the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, MI to see Chihuly: A New Eden. We were not disappointed. The gardens themselves were beautiful and filled with interesting sculpture. I will write more about that at a later date. Today, I just want to share with you Dale Chihuly. I think the pictures will speak for themselves.

     Next Chihuly exhibit for me...Nashville, TN in July. Cheekwood Botanical Garden is hosting Chihuly at Cheekwood through October 31st. If you have a chance to see one of his exhibits in your area, I highly recommend it.

     I am linking today with Susan @ A Southern Daydreamer for Outdoor Wednesday. Please visit her, you never know what you might find!