I went for an outing this morning to downtown. As I was sitting on my favorite park bench in Vinoy Park, I was noticing the various types of clouds. Being Father's Day, my thoughts were about my Dad, and my kids. I love Father's Day because even though my kids and I are separated by physical distance, we're only a phone call away. As I was snapping pics, the song, Both Sides Now came to mind. Judy Collins version, from her Wildflowers album was always my favorite.
I was thinking about my life, and all that has happened, and all that is yet to unfold. I was enjoying the warmth of the sun, and the beautiful setting, loving it, and at the same time, feeling very alone and missing my family. In three weeks, I'll be celebrating a 'landmark' birthday, and realizing that no matter how old we get, we're still searching for that perfect day, and meaning to our existence, and love and companionship. So today I'm thinking about life, my kids, families and clouds.
And ice cream castles in the air
And feather canyons everywhere
I've looked at clouds that way
But now they only block the sun
They rain and snow on everyone
So many things I would have done
But clouds got in my way
I've looked at clouds from both sides now
From up and down, and still somehow
It's cloud's illusions I recall
I really don't know clouds at all
Moons and Junes and Ferris wheels
The dizzy dancing way you feel
When every fairy tale comes real
I've looked at love that way
But now it's just another show
You leave 'em laughing when you go
And if you care, don't let them know
Don't give yourself away
I've looked at love from both sides now
From give and take, and still somehow
It's love's illusions I recall
I really don't know love at all
Tears and fears and feeling proud
To say "I love you" right out loud
Dreams and schemes and circus crowds
I've looked at life that way
But now old friends are acting strange
They shake their heads
They say I've changed
But something's lost but something's gained
In living every day
I've looked at life from both sides now
From win and lose and still somehow
It's life's illusions I recall
I really don't know life at all
On Tuesday night we headed over to the open party at the Suncoast Squares. It was good seeing all of the friends I used to dance with there. We stayed for about 20 minutes then headed over to Georgie's for dinner. It was buy one dinner, get one free night. We ran into Lou there and he sat and joined us for a short while before he headed out.
On Friday night we met Otto for dinner at Valentino's. I had to make sure that Russ and Jose got to eat there. My favorite Italian eatery!
On Sunday night we went to the Three Birds Tavern on 4th Street N, just west of my apartment. It was my first time there. We ate on the porch, as the flashings of lightning and rumblings of thunder rolled around us. The meal was excellent. Going to hit it up again for sure!
Russ's club sandwich, and my fish and chips.
On Monday we went to the Dali Museum, another first for me. Enjoyed learning about Dali and the collection there. The new Dali Museum is scheduled to open on January 11, 2011 ( 1/11/11).
The view behind the museum, looking from the entrance side.
When I went to get up, I found my left leg longer than my right, and bent at a strange angle, plus the right side of my face seemed melted down to my waist.
We headed to the Lucky Dill Deli on Central Ave for lunch. Russ and Jose had the Jewish Cuban, I had tuna salad on whole wheat.
For dinner on their last night in St Pete, we went to the Outback Steakhouse on 4th. Delicious, plus we saved room for dessert!
My rib/chicken/coconut shrimp platter w/ coleslaw and baked sweet potato. YUMMERS!!!
Our farewell at parting photo taken this morning. The 3 Caballeros bid adieu. Parting is such sweet sorrow.
On Thursday we headed over to the Magic Kingdom. It was Jose's first visit to Walt Disney World. The weather cooperated, and the crowds were very manageable, seemed much smaller than in the past. It was a fun and relaxed visit!
All decked out and ready to go!
Señor Jose and Señor Russel on Main Street
One of my favorite. Remember the gum incident Mia! I still have that old shirt! Love you!
What happened to that sorcerer's hat???
We spotted Cap'n Jack Sparrow on the streets of Tortuga.
And Gina joined us for a short while in Adventureland!
Waiting to enter the Tiki Hut.
The angry Tiki Goddess!
While waiting for the Main Street Electrical Parade to begin, I kept eyeing this little shop across the way . . .
I have some video of the parade to post. . . but having a problem uploading it. Will try again. **Note: the video button seems to be AWOL from my compose window.
My Goofy pass.
Russ, Jose and I headed over to Ybor City today to see the sights. Jose likes the feel of the area and told Russ he could live there! I don't think they're about to move though!
Guess who Jose is rooting for in the World Cup?
The mayor of La Setima
[
La Septima]
His assistant.
Jose bought some cigars and tobacco for his friend Javier.
Lunch at Hamburger Mary's.
My chicken tender wrap. I was eyeing the plate it was on.
Hello! Goodbye Mary!
I was thinking about my life, and all that has happened, and all that is yet to unfold. I was enjoying the warmth of the sun, and the beautiful setting, loving it, and at the same time, feeling very alone and missing my family. In three weeks, I'll be celebrating a 'landmark' birthday, and realizing that no matter how old we get, we're still searching for that perfect day, and meaning to our existence, and love and companionship. So today I'm thinking about life, my kids, families and clouds.
