A Weekend to Remember

Fred & I arrived in Sarasota on Saturday, narrowly avoiding the wintry forecast predicted for Charlotte. It was a balmy 72 degrees, blue skies, coastal humidity, everything you think of when you think of Florida.



But Mother Nature changed her mind before the day was done. With sunset came the thunder, thickening clouds slashed by lightning. Come Sunday, it was so much cooler.



So much cooler that my shell-hunting attire required a hoodie purchased at the Walgreens across the street from our hotel.
Hardly haute couture, but a fashionista I am not. I'm a devotee of comfort and WARMTH! (Later I wore my coat on top of my Walgreens hoodie on top of my turtleneck. )

I found some nice shells here.



And at Siesta Key, one of the Worlds Favourite Beaches, I found some odd seagulls. I suppose I shouldn't call them odd; they seem perfectly at home on the Gulf Coast. But I've never seen one like 'em on the Carolina coasts. I wish I'd thought to bring some saltines or bread to feed them. I surely will next time.



Balmy breezes and beach-combing weren't the reason for our trip, however. We were there for the preview of "Children of All Ages," a documentary by the same team who made "A Man Named Pearl." Once again, Scott & Brent created a wonderful film, this time about --- well, the title should give you a clue -- the circus. There are three main story lines in the drama, each weaving seamlessly into the other. It may be a few months before you can see it in a local theatre or on DVD. But it's worth the wait.

Fred scored this marvelous story. And I had a hard time keeping the camera steady to snap this shot of Fred & Scott with Margie Geiger (aerialist with the Wallendas) . She's one of many who shares her memories in the film.



And then there was Jackie LeClaire, the Ringling clown who has won the hearts of children of all ages for decades...and continues to do so in Sarasota. Not "under canvas" but at retirement homes....at childrens' parties..any place where people will benefit from a smile and a joke and a heartfelt laugh.



He won my heart at Sunday's preview, as did every person involved in the making of "Children of All Ages."

It was, indeed, a weekend I'll remember for a long, long time.