Renewal

The last couple of weeks have been rough...the kind of weeks that sear the very edges of your soul. I've been overbooked, under rested, stretched too thin with my back up against a few too many walls and a painful dose of conflict thrown in for good measure. So, having found myself with an unexpected free hour I decided to take a long, leisurely stroll through Reynolda Gardens. I haven't done that in a very, very long time, but I used to go there often in my younger, single days and sit on this very bench to contemplate life and refill my spirit.

This was a gorgeous day, with the sun shining but not too hot. Being late morning there weren't many people there, so it was a perfect respite from the load. I took the chance to play with my new camera and had a great time looking for beauty and inspiration. Of course, here, one does not have to look far...it is all around.

There is a huge formal rose garden, one of my most favorite parts, and the roses are just coming into their own. Cliche, I know, but it really does help to stop and smell them! It takes time to meander through the pathways and really see each variety. On past the roses, the vegetable and herb gardens are progressing nicely. I can't imagine the number of hands it takes to tend it all.

I laughed out loud at this one...we do grow some unique things here in the South. And to think, I had mine the hard way....

I happened upon this bridal shoot and it was so beautiful I couldn't help but snap a shot myself. What a perfect setting to capture those special memories! I hope I didn't distract them.

I wonder if anyone has told her about the children's garden? :-)

My last stop was to wander through the greenhouses. I love them almost as much as the outdoor gardens. Lots and lots of cacti with their great textures, and the most amazing collection of orchids. I took more pictures than would be practical to post here...suffice it to say that the time spent there was just what I needed. I came away refreshed and renewed with a big collection of new photos for inspiration.

I especially loved this orchid...it looks like an angel...