Schmidt's Spend Time At Shingle Creek

We were more than lucky to accompany our daughter, Alicia and family to Florida for an UHC business conference her husband attended. We called ourselves Mr. & Mrs. Nanny, otherwise known as Grams & Gramps. The name of the hotel, wasn't my favorite, Shingle Creek, because it reminded me of the disease, shingles. But it isn't anything close. This very beautiful place is surrounded by golf courses, away from the city of Orlando and the many theme parks nearby.

Several limos, taxis and arriving guests filled the spacious 50 x 100 foot drive-up entrance. We were greeted by abundant assisting parties. The hallways leading to guest services, dining, conference and lobby areas was cavernous.

Our fifth floor rooms were deluxe and inviting. Since it was after dark, we were happy to get a good night's sleep.

The view from our room was spectacular, which overlooked the four swimming pools. Palm trees swaying in the breeze and the skyline was dreamy. The hours were even better 6am to midnight. We spent every evening we could in the warm waters relaxing.

One last photo of the entire hotel in all its splendor, because I may never stay at anything so swanky again. Five days on the fifth floor in Florida and beyond.

Butts To You

While watering my flowering pear tree in the parkway by the street, I saw a generous amount of cigarette butts at its base. What a treat. No thanks for tossing your waste at his towering feet. Find some other receptical and leave my yard off your beat.

The Blooming Bush

This was the year for the blooming bush. The Rose of Sharon took top honors, with blossoms crowding every spot available. The side of my house looked like pink and purple sunset 24/7.

Tall and tan and young and lovely the bush from Epa-Bloomina keeps blooming. A month of gorgeous beauty and so little up-keep, is the Rose of Sharon. When a co-worker had a bucket of starts to share, I didn't know what the plant was. Thanks to her, I enjoy their aroma and unique flower all month.

While walking one morning I came across this purple splashed bush, with more blooms than a teen has zits. I couldn't resist snapping its photo and staring at it, like an impolite person. It didn't mind one bit, and stretched its branches out a little more as if to say, "Yes, I am beautiful, stare away!"

Funny thing is, I think it's a Rose of Sharon, too! The blooms are the exact same. Probably had lots of fertilizer and attention, unlike mine that were ignored, other than pruning.

Goin' On a Zucchini Hunt

Going on a zucchini hunt. Might catch a big one. I’m not afraid. Yay, it’s the size of a hot dog bun! Can’t leave it, gotta cut it, to grill in the summer sun.

Going on a bean hunt, Might catch a stringy one. I’m not afraid, have some green ‘Where’s Waldo’ fun. Pick a bunch to cook for an evening snack or run. Going on a cucumber hunt. Might catch a fat one. I’m not afraid. Grind it up in relish, give it to a nun.

Back to the zucchini hunt, afraid and never done. Someone missed this alligator and now it weighs a ton.

Busy But Beauty Abounded

I cant believe the month is almost over. It has been busy, with a new grandson, 45th class reunion, family visiting from out of state (9 in all). I have hardly had time to think, let alone blog. Along the way I went to Murray Park and saw some very old trees. I asked a city worker how old they were. 100 years old at least he said. Unfortunately, many are dying from age, disease and the stream that runs by them is eroding them away.

They are truly aged beauty. If you have a chance go see them. Take a look, enjoy their wisdom. If only they could talk. Imagine the things they have seen, heard and smelled. I also chanced upon this lovely purple orchid at the credit union, while making a deposit. The teller said it was her very own. She has several at home and grows them. It looked loved and cared for. Thanks for sharing your baby with us.

Up, Up And Away In That Balloon

We made our first hot-air balloon up close and personal visit. We usually sit on the back row and watch. With out brave (New Jersey resident) daughter, we just marched right down into the middle of the major material filled melee. It was so interesting to watch the owners pull out the yards and yards of fabric that make up these floating giants. The canisters of gas, fans and process to begin and completely fill them is interesting. This particular colorful balloon's owners were from Sweden. They had the Swedish flag flying. We got so comfortable that we almost asked for a ride.

Hankering for a Hike

I would really like to go on a hike. It's been almost a month (July 4th), and my hike hunger has kicked in. Nothing will quench this pain in my mountain lover climb around pack, except a hike. Last time I did Delicate Arch was over ten years ago with a newly broken wrist.

We probably wont make it down to Moab this year, but the Wasatch Mountains are calling my boots. Hopefully, we can meet up this week.