I spent four and a half hours at the Naples Botanical Garden yesterday – about twice as long a normal. I paid the pain price but oh it was sooooo worth it. It was one of those beautiful days when everything seemed more, well sensual.

My goal was to walk to the edge of the garden where they are preserving the wetland, to see if there were wading birds. The color and texture in the succulent garden was my first distraction. In previous years I have tried photographing these plants, but I didn’t feel the passion I am feeling this year.

I am drawn to the beautiful curves and colors.

Yesterday, I played tag with the sun that dappled the thick, fleshy leaves as gossamer clouds rode the wind.

I watched an artist sketch those parts of the landscape that have also caught my eye on many visits. We talked for a long time about composition and golf bags.

The subtle colors of vegetation slowed me down and kept me from my destination. How could I possibly choose to walk to the water’s edge when so much beauty was right before me?

What could be more inviting and sensual than the petal’s curl of a blooming rose or an orchid?

I had a lot of other distractions from my goal, but the most inviting and sensual was my lunch. I usually stop for a cup of tea and scone before I leave, but yesterday it was later so I ordered a mango chicken salad and an iced coffee.

The salad had a wonderful herb I couldn’t identify but the blend of flavors brought a smile as I savored it with the tender fresh lettuce and crispy toast. And the iced coffee was extra special with the cream I added.

This adventure fed all my senses. On mornings like this I rejoice at being alive.