After the electric, driven pace of New York City, the tranquility of the Place of the Heart renews me. Sitting quietly, sipping herbal tea, I watch fluffy yellow butterflies skim tropical mango and grape fruit trees.  The scents of jasmine and orange lift my spirit.  At night I sink into soft down pillows on a crisp linen bed and pore over a book. I come back here again and again to restore my soul.Jeannette LaVoy, Opera Singer, Actress

Enjoy sites and sounds of Sarasota. Practice silence, read or just relax on the finest Siesta Key sand beach in the world. Stroll galleries. Visit museums. Take a short trip to Disney. Visit nature parks, Jungle Gardens or the Selby Botanical Museum. Arrange a summer sunset sailboat cruise. Thrift or antique to your heart's content.

However, you choose to restore your balance or inner peace, the Place of the Heart offers you the atmosphere and surroundings to do so.

Thank you! Your kindness will never be forgotten.  This was just what the doctor ordered. My spirit has truly been renewed. I am now again ready to go back home and help to fight a very important battle for not only myself, but the many women , who don't have a voice and depend on mine. This is truly the best kept secret."Pat Nalls, Executive Director, The Women's Collective.

"What joy to find the Place of the Heart and its gracious proprietress--its the perfect environment...a haven of peace and traquility not to mention charm and elegance. Thank you so much for coming into my life.

Lois Williams, Retired, World Bank Executive

"My first time in Sarasota and at the Place of the Heart. What a lovely and peaceful environment to renew the spirit and for me to catch up on writing my dissertation.

Dr. Alicia Petersen, Howard University, Washington D.C.

Photo Gallery & Guest Comments

I think this house has magic. I feel safe and warm here. It was a precious moment. I had all kinds of experiences. I think its you, Joy, who creates the magic. Thank you very much. June Chomphunut

Visual Artist, Lampang, Thailand

2006 Illustration Academy Visiting Artists: Mark English, Brent Watkinson, Anita Kunz, C.F. Payne, Gary Kelly, John English. Ringling College of Art & Design