Last weekend my husband and I returned to Aldridge Gardens—a thirty-acre woodland garden featuring a lake, wide trails, whimsical sculptures, native plants, azaleas, and hydrangeas. (I describe the gardens in more detail in THIS blog.) I needed a diversion, some sunshine, a wee bit of exercise, and a reminder of the beauty all around in nature. A walk in the gardens seemed like the perfect morning.
I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.
— John Burroughs (1837-1921) American naturalist and nature essayist
We were not disappointed. Getting away for even an hour is calming and brings life more into focus. At one point I stopped to enjoy the bird songs and the burbling waterfalls. (Yes, burbling is the real word for the sound made by waterfalls.)
The smooth, serene lake was peaceful.
More flowers were in bloom on this trip. I particularly enjoyed the various colors.
The Snowflake Hydrangea is named for the shape of its heads of intricate double blossoms layered on top of each other.
Some of the fun features of Aldridge Gardens are the whimsical bronze sculptures scattered throughout.
from top left: Waiting for My Ride – Frank Fleming; Along for the Ride – Frank Fleming;
On the Nature of Building – Ted Metz; Long Tall Silly – Nelson Grice
Bonsai are amazing and inspiring. I marvel at the skill, talent, and aesthetic decisions that goes into nurturing and shaping these beautiful trees—they require patience and time.
Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.
— Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) American essayist,
lecturer, philosopher, minister, abolitionist, and poet
We came across a snake—I turned around and left that area. My husband stopped and took a picture.
A stroll through the gardens brought an immediate boost in mood—along with a sense of tranquility and peace.
Believe me, for I know, you will find something far greater in the woods than in books. Stones and trees will teach you that which you cannot learn from the masters.
— Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) Venerated as Saint Bernard, he was an abbot and mystic
As we were leaving, we met a man who was entering. His gaze was downward. I cheerfully welcomed him, “Good morning!” He looked surprised—but he returned my greeting with a big smile and a nod back to me. He looked as if his day was made better—maybe his faith in humanity restored, if only for a moment.
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