2013 - January - Naples Botanical Gardens with Mike, Laura

 

 

 

On the 4^th we again took a dock in Naples so we could spend the day with Mike & Laura at the Naples Botanical Gardens - she volunteers there & wanted us to be her guests. I lived there many years & have never visited this most amazing place. First of all, it’s huge! Very well planned out in various zones. Information from

 

 WikipediA: “In 1993, a group of eight Naples residents founded the Garden with nothing more than the dream of creating a world-class botanical garden. In 2000, a gift from the Kapnick Family enabled the purchase of an extraordinary 170-acre site with seven different habitats just south of Old Naples…includes six cultivated gardens, 2.5 miles of walking

 

trails, and 90-acres of restored native preserve”. “In addition to six cultivated gardens, Naples Botanical Garden models the natural world of the Everglades' ecosystem, such as the Mary and Stephen B. Smith River of Grass, a beautiful representation of a filter marsh that dramatically improves water quality by slowing down run-off and absorbing contaminants as well as wetlands preserves. The Vicky and David B.

Smith Florida Uplands Preserve offers a unique sanctuary, providing vital habitat for hundreds of species of plants and animals, including a large population of gopher tortoises. The Collier Enterprise South Wetlands Preserve offers a rare glimpse into a disappearing Florida habitat - unspoiled marshes, twisted mangroves and an abundance of wildlife”.

 

We were in awe - our cameras clicking away like mad. We spent hours soaking up the pleasures of beauty…but now, we were ready for happy hour! They took us to the Real Macaw - a wonderful little Key Westy-type of restaurant/bar. However, the restaurant located  inside was upscal & 5-star- gorgeous!

 

Later that night we met at the Boat House for dinner then on to Luna for music & after dinner drinks. Such an amazing day.  Thanks Laura & Mike....

Laura & Mike - SO in love