Drum Circle On the Beach

 As the sun began to set, another sound joined the calls of the gulls and terns swooping along the edge of Florida's Venice Beach. It came from the drum circle, a low, deep vibration. The drummers attracted sunburned teenagers and small children who had lost interest in their sand castles. Elderly residents set up lawn chairs around the edge of the circle. The drumming continued until the sun dipped below the ocean. Clouds flared with orange and blue-violet, then faded along with the drumming, marking the end of another fine day.

The Cars Ride In Here

 If you live somewhere along the East Coast, you have the option of taking Amtrak’s Auto Train to or from Florida. A train goes in each direction once a day. Instead of the endless highway that is I-95, passengers doze overnight in seats or roomettes then wake to find themselves in either Sanford, Florida or Lorton, Virginia. Children love to watch the automobiles being driven up the ramps into auto cars that get hooked to the back of the passenger train. Just remember to take that special stuffed animal or blankie out of the family car, or it will have to ride in darkness until everyone reaches their destination.

Through The Veil

 At the Sarasota Museum of Art, viewers can immerse themselves in the glowing colors of Lillian Blades’ artwork. Textured assemblages hang on the walls, inviting a closer look to puzzle out all the repurposed objects that form them. The free-hanging "veils" are mesmerizing, with units cut from mirror, transparent plastic and fabric-covered wood. They are wired together into fabric-like veils that cast complicated shadows. It’s a magical environment.