Art Stroll celebrates 15 years and Trina's birthday

Coconut Grove's favorite block party, the Gifford Lane Art Stroll took place Sunday. The weather could not be more perfect, it was 65 and sunny. I was told by organizers that this stroll had the largest attendance in their 15 year history.

I've been running into so many old friends lately, in fact, a few were at the stroll this weekend. At left is old friend Joe Gerace with my current friend Lisa Remeny, small world. I ran into Joe a couple of weeks back after not seeing him for 13 years, I was actually good friends with his brother Vincent, now it seems I see Joe all over!

Claudia Gomberg, left, and her mother Anita Gomberg were out showing off Anita's art. This was Anita's first time showing art at a festival ever. She sold a few pieces and now has the courage to start the art circuit, showing and selling her art. A store owner from Pinecrest saw Anita's work at Gifford Lane and offered to sell some in her shop. How is that for first time out!

I love when art is being created right there on the spot. So did these guys, who hung around for quite a while asking questions and watching the chair painting technique.

Grovites Louis Del Borrello, Kathy Hartfield and Jerry Wade, all enjoying the Cucumber Punch, the potent green elixir that's always a hit at Gifford Lane. I was thinking that with the chill in the air, green hot chocolate was more in order! But again, I was told that this year, more Cucumber Punch was served than in any previous year! Even in the cold weather.

The line for punch. For the price of a tip for charity, you can get your fill. It's served right out of David and Trina Collins' kitchen. Trina is one of the founders of the Gifford Lane Art Stroll.

Speaking of Trina, it was her birthday, so at the end of the day, as the Art Stroll was winding down, a couple of cakes were brought out and the band, Solar Dogs sang "Happy Birthday," and all who were left received some cake. Nathan Kurland lights the candles for Trina as Robert Loupo looks on. There were actually dozens of people taking photos and dozens more, singing along.

There are lots more pictures of the Gifford Lane Art Stroll here.