Kissing Cousins

Just got back last night from an enjoyable 3-day trip down to Fort Myers Beach to spend time with Tom's "first-level" cousins Jack and Emma.


Tom and Jack

Emma and Jack

Emma, Me and Tom

Chihuly in Florida

Yesterday my friend Billie and I drove over to St. Petersburg to see the Chihuly Collection, presented by the Morean Arts Center. We left Ormond Beach at 6:30 a.m so we could get through Orlando before the morning rush hour, stopping for breakfast once we got through Orlando. After viewing the collection, watching a video and visiting the gift shop, we headed to the Morean Glass Studio and Hot Shop for an art glass demonstration. Unfortunately, picture taking inside the Chihuly Collection was prohibited. I've scanned some photographs from their catalog, but they don't do them justice. My favorite was the Boat Float which was full of glass orbs. I've always been fascinated with all kinds of orbs and am endeavoring to create a similar effect in my garden with marbled bowling balls. So far, I have one. Who knew it would be so hard to find used bowling balls. So, I highly recommend a trip to St. Petersburg to see the Chihuly Collection - this is a permanent collection - not an exhibition. For more information and photos, please visit www.chihulycollectionstpete.com.