Microadventure #19: Sarasota Open Fine Art Show with Madeline

New friend, Madeline and I, at the Sarasota Open Fine Art Show at Phillippi Estate Park

Today’s microadventure was fun both for the event and the company, which, of course, is always the goal. However, since it was the first time I’d met Madeline, and the only thing I knew about her is that we had a mutual Facebook friend, I wasn’t quite sure how she’d like being my microadventure-buddy. I’m happy to say she very happily agreed to not only joining me for the event, but enduring my photos and questions with good humor and interest!

Actually, when she told me she’d recently bought a Winnebago and was traveling only with her dog, I was in major awe of her bold spirit! I just love her sense of adventure and felt bonded with her immediately!

Madeline has a love of art and had suggested that we meet at the Sarasota Open Fine Art Show, a Hotworks event.

There were so many beautiful and unique works of art. Every time I go to one of these events, I’m so tempted to buy something special for myself. Maybe it’s a good thing that there are just too many special things that it’s hard for me to pick out just one! There’s also the fact that I don’t even own a place out here (yet). However, when I’m settled in my Bradenton condo (April!) it will be fun to find some special art pieces to decorate the place and make it feel like mine.

Madeline is checking out some of these cool pieces from The Perfect View– turning “antique artifacts into art”!

This is Kathy Lohr with her creations! Jewelry by Kathy Lohr Designs. Definite items for my wish list!

These gorgeous unique lanterns can be found at Woodsmith of Naples, Inc.

After perusing to our heart’s content, Madeline and I took a walk around Phillippi Estates (where the event was held).

Then we grabbed some lunch at this Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck! (Michael B., I just sampled the goods here with lobster bisque, but waiting to really pig out (or would that be Lobster Out?) with you!)

It was a little chilly outside, so Madeline invited me to her Winnebago to enjoy our soup and talk. Her van was so pretty and clean and new with lots of coziness to accommodate both her and her dog.

She shared a beautiful purplicious quilt that she made with the help of a friend. She had never made a quilt before, but her experienced friend taught her how and now she has her own special work of art for the ultimate in coziness.

A colorful and vibrant day with a colorful, vibrant new friend!

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Carpe Diem Connections

Live a Happy, Productive, and Meaningful Life fostering Deep Connections

Short introduction of Dan Jaworski, who is participating in the Kona Ironman after receiving an early onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Full YouTube video available here: https://youtu.be/BuqwJjPNZzk

Blog post: https://www.carpediemday.com/alzheimers-diagnosis-motivates-dan-jaworski-to-fulfill-his-dream-participate-in-the-kona-ironman/

When Dan Jaworski received a devastating diagnosis and a recommendation from his doctor to move forward on his bucket list, he knew what he needed to do.

“Within hours of my diagnosis, I contacted Sarah Hartmann at The IRONMAN Foundation. I am so grateful for this amazing opportunity to race Kona on October 9, 2021”

The month of June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month.

You can read more about Dan and his inspirational story here. His attitude of resilience and strength is the same “Carpe Diem spirit” that I saw in my friend Craig Dunham when he was faced with an ALS Diagnosis. It’s the reason I started CarpeDiemDay.com.

Rather than ask for money, Dan asked for 140 names – one for each of the 140.6 miles of the race – of others who are battling Alzheimer’s and related diseases.

His list of 140 names, along with notes and tributes are listed on his site. And despite not asking for money, he has currently raised over $70K in donations for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Gratefully, I don’t currently know anyone personally suffering from Alzheimer’s, but I certainly understand the devastation and fear most people would have in the face of such a diagnosis.

Dan’s optimistic attitude, his drive, tenacity, and resilient spirit will most certainly work in his favor in the coming months, both in his training and in his overall health.

Let’s follow his lead! Whether it’s participating in an Ironman, writing a book, or repairing a relationship, don’t wait. Follow your dreams.

Carpe Diem!