‘Pine Island Rocks’
According to the Facebook postings on “Pine Island Rocks,” painted rocks are being found all over Pine Island. In fact painted rocks are being found all over the country.
Part-time Pine Island resident Tami O’Hanlon-Newton was staying in Indian Acres, Maryland, when her grandson Landon found a painted rock from North Carolina.
“I just thought ‘what a wonderful idea,'” Newton said. “We have a house in Bokeelia and Pine Island and Matlacha are so artistic, it just seemed to be a perfect fit. When I looked into it I realized there are hundreds of places around the country doing this and it works perfectly for Pine Island so I set up the Facebook page ‘Pine Island Rocks.'”
Rocks painted with images of dolphins, starfish, hearts and, of course, “Pine Island Rocks,” along with words and phrases of love, beach life, pink island rocks, smile and sunshine have been found from St. James City to Bokeelia and from Pineland to Matlacha.
“We are painting rocks to ‘hide’ around Pine Island to spread joy and brighten people’s day,” Newton said. “I hope everyone joins us in this community-building group meant to inspire creativity in all ages and energize people to explore the beautiful area we live in.”
The Facebook site states: “The goal is to get lots of people all across our communities painting so that there are lots of rocks to be found out there. You might find yourself rediscovering parts of our community you haven’t appreciated in a while. Get out and enjoy yourself! Add any of your friends to our group who would be interested in doing this and share the link to this group on your personal FB page.”
“I found a rock outside CW Fudge Factory today,” said William Tidball, co-owner of CW Fudge. “It was a nice surprise and I left for someone else to find and enjoy. It disappeared and who knows where it will end up! So much fun!”
Be sure to visit the Pine Island Rocks Facebook page for rules and regulations.
“This is a wonderful way to bring the community together,” Newton said. “All it takes is some rocks, a few painting supplies, and little creativity. Then post pictures of your rocks on our Facebook page and place them in the community for someone to find. The intention of this is to spread joy!”