It’s funny how we are never tourists in our own city. We travel somewhere else and spend all our time exploring the sights and finding interesting things to do. But when we are in our own town, we tend to go to the same places, do the same things. We never take the time to explore.

This week, we decided to explore our area a little bit, and we headed over to Lake Wales to visit Bok Tower Gardens. I think the last time Kim and I went was post-hurricanes (not Irma or Ian, but after 2004, the year Charlie, Frances, and Jean rolled through). There was so much damage in the gardens when we visited that it wasn’t at its best. You’d think we would have been quick to give it a second try because we love gardens in all shapes and forms, but out of sight, out of mind, and now many years have passed since our last visit.

And we are so glad we made the trip. It was gorgeous. Lots of beautiful gardens to wander and lose yourself in, including lots of well-planted native habitats (reminded me of our Homegrown National Park^® at Kerby’s, be sure to check it out when you stop in next time, it’s growing in really well!).

And of course, the tower. We didn’t get to stay for a full carillon concert, but it was ringing and filling the area with music as we walked along the entrance paths. The tower is absolutely gorgeous and has such an interesting story of its inception, creation, and construction. Truly the Taj Mahal of Florida!

But even among all the beautiful sounds and sights, one of the most fun things we found to do was across a lawn in a quiet area. There is a pretty little finger pond, and if you take unsalted peanuts, you can feed the turtles. There were little box turtles and softshell turtles, and they would come right up to the pond’s edge and just about take the peanuts out of your hand. Unbelievably cute, and the girls had a great time giving the little turtles a treat. (We fed the fish, too, but they weren’t as cute as the turtles!)

A great morning was had, exploring something right in our own backyard. We came back with lots of inspiration and big projects that we would love to do in our gardens at home. We’re just trying to follow Edward Bok’s famous quote: “Make you the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it.” Wise words to live by. He certainly did his share.