Sometimes life hands you something special.

When life knocks on your door, you best pay attention.  I had the opportunity and I paid attention. See that white gate. Well let me tell you something about that white gate. On the other side of it is an 82 year old woman who has the vision, strength and love, to put together the most magnificent of gardens!  And, best of all, she shared it!

I will never do justice to what this woman has created. She has carved out about 12 different theme gardens, one after another, with such detail and style. The meandering paths lead you from one garden to the next and you have to look in every nook and cranny to catch all that she has tucked away ... there to surprise you!

She carried the stone, gathered and laid the bricks, planted the plants, placed the statues .. well, you get it.  And, remember, she is 82 years old and going strong!

                                           Each piece has a history, that she so willingly shares.

 And, this little piece started the whole thing. How sweet is the story, how rich is her life, how much soul this incredible woman has.

I am going to share the gardens and the property over the next few days. Believe me, it's worth the trip back to the blog to get the whole picture ... or at least what I was able to capture in a quick visit.

I am truly inspired.    (Thanks NJC and Mrs U ..... boy am I glad I answered the door.)

9/11

It only seems fitting to re-post these pictures of pieces of the World Trade Centers that are now resting in Baltimore, Maryland.

              To this day, it just doesn't seem possible.  How our world changed on that fateful day.
                                                  Remember, feel and raise your eyes ....

Mini Vail

Yes, that's what it's like .... a mini Vail! The quaint little town of Ellicottville, NY is so inviting.

                                                    From the slopes, the lodge, the inns ....

 

... to the welcoming and most enjoyable B & Bs ...  

 ... to the lovely town center with shops, boutiques, restaurants and friendly engaging people .....

 

 

                                              ... to the sponge candy store (a must experience)!

                        I can only imagine what this lovely little town is like in the winter. 
                                            But, I plan on experiencing it first hand!

                                                

The Picture

                            When I look at the big picture, I'm in awe of what has been created.

                    And then I think ....  the big picture could not be created without the fine detail.

                                                    It takes it all, to make the whole.
                                                        I find that to be humbling.

Griffis Sculpture Park

This place is great!  I'm heading back there when i have time to roam and shoot! This is a must do!

Since the early 60′s, the steel sculptures of Larry Griffis, Jr. and other international artists have been residing in the woods, fields, and even ponds of Griffis Sculpture Park. The 450 acre Ashford Hollow park, located eight miles outside of Ellicottville, is not only a tremendous regional attraction, but holds the distinction of being one of America’s largest and oldest sculpture parks.
The park features over 250 large scale sculptures dispersed through miles of hiking trails. Each sculpture was placed with the natural setting in mind, creating a truly unique experience between art and nature.
The park is actually split into two sections: Rohr Hill Road Site and Mill Valley Road Site. The Rohr Hill area is characterized by towering sculptures set in fields and woods just off the road. The Mill Valley Road Site features both a smooth walk area, as well miles of trails through a variety of terrain. Whether you have five minutes or five hours, one can always get a flavor of the park.

Description is taken from their website http://www.griffispark.org/

The following pictures are from the  Rohr Hill Road Site. All these statues must be about 25 - 30 feet tall.  They are amazing!

I can't wait to go back and get some shots that really show this park! It's really something to experience!