Siesta Key and Lakeland

 Here I am back home in Indiana and really there is no place to relax than at home but it was so hard to leave the beautiful and warm state of Florida. When we arrrived home yesterday there were snow flurries! What a differance in the weather, brr! On the happy side I had a nice surprise today, My hyacinth's are in bloom.

We started out in the beautiful place called Siesta Key. It was a perk my son in law gets through his company. A free to use vacation condo time shared with other employees. They were so kind to invite us earlier this year but I was not sure I could do it with the journey I have health wise, thankfully I got the OK.

Family is one of the biggest joys life holds. We do a lot with family at home and on vacations as well.

Our grandson Oliver was so excited about everything this year. He is almost 3 now. His birthday is in June. That is a fun, fun age, It's wonderful to see the joy and excitement in his face.

He thought it was so cool to ride the trolley in the village at Siesta Key. 

He loved the beach too, so did I!

And I love sunsets.

My heart is so full of the blessings God gives and surprises me with that I was like a kid in the candy store.

Here's Ollie in the candy store in Siesta Key!

I was also delighted to get to go to the beautiful city of Lakeland Florida and meet up with Terri once again. We had a lovely lunch and stroll through the garden. It was truly beautiful. My husband enjoyed it so much also. Terri and I have been blogging friends for many years now. We were on an old site called Multiply until it closed down. I had a little difficulty getting used to this Google site  but I'm trying to get caught back up here on Blogging. I've met  some nice people here. I'm still learning how to navigate this social media.

My husband and I are planning on a trip this winter, Last years had to be postponed and I look forward to spending more time with Terri as well. I treasure her friendship. 

oh and those beautiful gardens! I have to go back and get some more pictures! One can never have too many photos of beautiful places.

This tree reminded me of a talking tree in an enchanted forest. It seems to have a personality. I liked looking up through the branches and the way the sun was shining through them.

What a lovely place!

It's been a wonderful restful vacation. I didn't see it coming but never underestimate what treasures may seemingly be buried in the winter rains and snows. Things certainly happen that are not easily understood but there are always new blessings and mercies for each day.

Quietly

Little seed, sight unseen buried beneath the cold, dark ground.

Unknown existence, seemingly dead yet containing the secrets of the future you.

Through the winter resting within your shell without a worry or a clue

Of the miracle that soon would be changing you

Your Master speaks, the seasons change, the earth softens with the springs rain.

According to His divine plan the life within you is stirred to push through the soil.

The rain subsides, the sun kisses the earth, and you begin to emerge a tiny sprout.

Within His time your tiny blossom becomes a flower, without a shout your quiet beauty reflects His power.

Cheryl

Never underestimate the power of quietness, It can be as strong as a shout or an unexpected blessing .

Wishing you all love and blessings!

Cheryl