Saturday, August 13, 2011

In search of greener gardens...

One of the pretty days this week seemed like a perfect day to take my curious and busy toddler out to discover some of Howard County's less traveled roads. I had read a tourist magazine recently filled with ideas of places I had never heard of before and I was intriqued. James, Erin and I set out first in search of the Brighton Dam that housed acres and acres of beautiful gardens. Unfortunately, the gardener told us they were only open in May, but we were able to enjoy the view of the water and a fun picnic on the playgrounds that were open to the public. After that we went in search of local farmers markets and finally ended up at The Shrine of St. Anthony. This turned out to be the hidden gem of the whole trip - the rolling hills, the italian architecture, and the pristine landscaping made us feel as though we had stepped into Italy. A tour of the property was just as awe-inspiring. The Friars have established a number of quiet gardens and places for mediation and prayer that are open to anyone in need of a place to get away and pray. It was beautiful!
 It was the dam in the background, but for our purposes, we pretended it was
a beautiful waterfall for Erin.

 Bologne sandwiches for lunch.

 James steals Erin's pringles.

Playgrounds are for kids of all ages!







 As soon as James saw the large statue of St. Anthony, he
ran up to him babbling excitedly and waving his arm in an animated way.
 James is actually in the middle of doing a "circle jig" where he dances and
runs in circles.
 James was extremely dissapointed he could not get INTO the water.
 Balconies overlooking acres of gardens. Should have brought my journal!


 Trellis walkways from one garden to the next.




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