Sarasota

On the evening of March 16, retirees, spouses and friends gathered for cocktails at the Lido Beach Grille from where we could look over the ocean, but that evening there was no spectacular sunset. It was fun to get to see old acquaintances and to meet new friends. Dinner followed and plans for the next day were discussed since lots of rain was predicted.

On the morning of March 17, those of us that were not residents of Sarasota, met at the Selby Botanical Gardens for a tour of the grounds. Some went with a docent and others went on their own. Although we all were ready for rain, it never came. The afternoon saw each of us doing something different. Some went on a boat tour at the Myakka State Park, others went shopping on Armand Circle, and others just enjoyed the afternoon at the beach.

Thursday morning March 18, we met at the Ringling Museum of Art which included a tour of the Ca D'Zan Mansion and the gorgeous rose garden. There were no plans for the afternoon so many of us had lunch at the Treviso Restaurant and then went off to different activities.

That evening, we got together for a farewell dinner at Cafe L'Europe on Armand Circle. The food was delicious, the company was great, and it was sad to have to again say "see you next year"! Where will we gather next year? Two suggestions were made, St. Augustine and Apalachicola. Since Karin will be in DC in the Spring of 2011 to sell her Arlington home, volunteers are needed to plan the 2011 Gathering (and whoever volunteers gets to select where the Gathering will be held!!!).