Every year, the Orioles contract with an artist to paint the yearly spring training logo along the stadium concourse, Once this logo gets painted on the stadium wall, we know the games are just around the corner, as the excitement builds while the weather warms-up.
While baseball plays a big part in what we do for the three months we are in Sarasota, we are excited when we get to entertain family who visit us in Sarasota. We are thrilled that they take time out of their busy schedules to come and spend time with us.
Our oldest 2 grandchildren, Amelia (10) and John (8), are enjoying a game at the stadium.
Our daughter, Wendy, says that she needs a "beach fix" when visiting Sarasota. Siesta Key is renowned as one of the country's best beaches. Here Amelia and John are enjoying their spring break on the the fine soft white sand that is easy on your feet.
Our other two grandchildren, Jack (6) and Henry (3), had a different week of spring break. The weather was not nearly as nice, but they and mom Laura still were able to enjoy swimming and mini-golf. One afternoon, we did get to enjoy playing games on our picnic table. Paul, Ann, and Jack are playing Rummikub, while Henry is playing a solo game of Uno.
Because of the wet and cool weather, we enjoyed some of our meals inside the RV. Jack and Henry enjoyed being able to watch a DVD movie while eating their lunch.
When we didn't have family visiting, we enjoyed taking several bike rides along the Legacy Trail, an 18 mile paved bike trail from Sarasota to Venice. The views from some of the homes along this trail are spectacular. These homes back up to the intercoastal waterway along the Gulf Coast. The homes are rather large, and many of them having a dock and a boat. If you can afford a home here, you can certainly also enjoy some toys to enjoy the water in your backyard.
Paul is pausing to take in the view from one of the many bridges we crossed during the ride. The spectacular view over Paul's shoulders shows the waterway leading towards the Gulf of Mexico. Spectacular view for us to enjoy on a clear sunny day.
During this ride, we did spot this large box turtle meandering along the trail; the shell was probably about 12-14 inches in diameter. We scanned the waterways for any sea life but were unsuccessful at spotting any creatures.
Yes, we work hard while in Sarasota, but we also enjoy our time off taking advantage of the many recreational activities the area has to offer. It is obvious to us why so many people choose the Sarasota area for their winter home or vacation destination.
I see a lot of Schlegel in Henry in that picture of him and Jack watching a DVD. He looks like Chris and Lyn, I think!
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