Saying goodbye to our Sarasota home

It’s time to say goodbye to our Sarasota home and studio, and I find myself filled with mixed emotions. For the past five years, this little place has been a source of joy, inspiration, and countless memories. David and I worked hard to make it ours, and in many ways, it feels like a chapter that’s ending.

The gardens, in particular, were a labor of love. I collected plants I hoped would thrive year-round, and we planted fruit trees that would greet us with their bounty during our snowbird months. Watching them grow and transform over the years brought us so much happiness.

We were fortunate to meet wonderful neighbors and friends here, too. And what a gift it was to live within walking distance of the Sarasota Art Museum, where I spent many hours soaking in the creativity. The area itself had so much to offer—from Cobb salads at Gecko’s and happy hours at Libby’s, to the bento boxes at Pacific Rim (and so many more delicious meals we shared).

Some of our fondest adventures were outdoors—hiking in Myakka River State Park, marveling at the alligators, and making the trek out to Deep Hole. (Only 30 people are allowed in each day, and you have to check in and out or they’ll come looking for you!) Florida’s unspoiled wilderness is breathtaking, and it was always a thrill to experience.

And of course, we’ll miss those legendary sunsets over the fine white sands of Siesta Key and Longboat Key, where David’s brother and his wife have a place. Those evenings by the water will stay with us.

For me, one of the greatest treasures of our Sarasota life was my studio. Inspiration came easily here, and I loved having a place to bring my ideas to life in paint. Sarasota also gave me the chance to take classes—glass fusion, mosaic making (with David, which was so much fun!), and portrait painting. Each of these opened new ways of thinking about art and materials, and I’m eager to keep learning wherever I can find the next opportunity.

It has been a nurturing, creative time, but also an adventure—and now it feels right to move on. We will miss this place dearly, yet we carry its beauty and memories with us.