Goodbye Tennessee Aquarium, Hello Florida Botanical Garden!

For a couple of years, I volunteered at the Tennessee Aquarium in the horticulture department. I am grateful for the wonderful experience. We decided to move back to Florida, so I bid farewell to the aquarium last fall. Watering and taking care of the plants behind the Delta Country exhibit and at the greenhouse, I learned a lot about the plants and animals - turtles, ducks, fish. I miss them and miss the lovely Chattanooga waterfront as well.

The Tennessee Aquarium on the riverfront in Chattanooga downtown

Hello Florida Botanical Garden! We love this place and visited often; I've always wanted to volunteer here when I move back.  I use to drive 20 miles to the aquarium once every two weeks, now I drive 3 miles to the garden once a week. It is a welcome change, trafficwise.

One of the reasons we chose to live in Pinellas County is its extensive park system. Hurricanes Helene and Milton did quite a bit of damage to these parks. Some are still closed. The garden, which is also part of the Pinellas County Parks, opened two weeks ago. On the day I started, they had a poinsettia delivery. The volunteers were tasked to move and situate them to their final destination. The poinsettias were absolutely beautiful. Just in time for the holidays! The holiday lights at the Florida Botanical Garden opens on Friday Nov 29 and runs until Saturday Jan 4, 2025. Click on their website link for more details.

some of the lovely poinsettias are anchored here.

Many an artist likes to draw/paint at this scenic spot

great place to sit and relax

Turtles and bird basking in the sun; there's an alligator around somewhere

we trimmed the Norah Grant Ixora so visitors have an unobstructed view of the lake

If you are in the area or on the way to the beach, plan to visit this amazing garden. You'll be glad you did.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

This post is shared on Skywatch Friday and Through My Lens.

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