I had a half hour free this morning so I snuck out for a quick bike ride to grab some images for a 4th of July blog. My intent was to photograph this patriotic mural on the side of a building on Orange Avenue, as it is as powerful patriotic statement as I can think of in Orlando. Painted after 9/11, this artwork is hard to miss as you head south from downtown.
Next up was Constitution Green, a park off Summerlin Avenue commemorating the 200th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution. The focal point of this urban green space is a wonderful Live Oak whose long limbs stretch to the ground to create a wonderful natural canopy in the middle of the city. While not the largest oaks in the city, it is one of the few that has been allowed to grow unhindered in every direction. Perhaps that is real freedom.
And finally on the way home I happened upon the aftermath of some early celebrating. When I was a kid with fireworks, waiting until the 4th of July was like waiting for Christmas and we would usually have fired off everything well before Independence Day. And by the look of things kids today are just eager to get the festivities underway.
So from Visual Ephemera have a safe and enjoyable holiday and may you experience the day with the same sense of wonder you had as a child!
Here is something I like very much about Florida: Freedom to set off mortars and aerial fireworks without being busted, as in California, for firing up a sparkler.
ReplyDeleteI can see that I need to visit your area more often. There are finds there that the casual tourist would overlook.
I know that tree!
ReplyDeleteWhen i first saw your post "Freedom Ride", i thought you were the non profit Freedom Ride, the old Ben White Raceway off Lee Road, a riding stables for children with disabilities. Nice place to take photos.
Ive lived in this area since '55, love to photograph and read history of Fl. Thanks for some great reading and info!