“And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.

Matthew 6:28-29

April 1, North Carolina: Welcome to one of the most beautiful months of the year in one of the most lovely states in the Union! I’m not just saying this, I have the photographs to prove it!

So yesterday, long overdue for this kind of adventure, Rebekah and I made our way to Durham to take a stroll around Sara P. Duke Gardens. I have photographed this site a couple of other times over the years, but every view, every flower bed, every individual bloom is unique in every way, every single day.

We started – and you can see this photograph at the top of this page – by enjoying a picnic lunch close to the entry.

Then we made our way back through the main gate, along the arched avenue, and down into the oldest section of the gardens, pausing every few feet to examine or photograph some glorious specimen.

For me, at this time of the year, I can’t wait to get to the terraced tulip gardens. I have tried to limit the number of photographs, but the variety and the density of these spectacular flowers so saturates the senses it can be quite overwhelming.

Torn between landscape and individual flowers:

I found myself torn between looking at the big picture and taking individual shots. I have included one video (a little jumpy and not that well thought out), just to give a sense of the scope of the display.

In fact, I think I am going to offer this in two bites: First, the landscape in general and then – in a post either later today or tomorrow – particular focus on the tulip beds.

Landscape:

After drinking our fill Rebekah and I walked around the extensive lawns then on into areas featuring more natural landscaping. Just lovely.

What I am left with, every time I visit somewhere this creatively landscaped, is this idea that humankind is at its best when we collaborate with our Creator.

Not abusing the Good Earth, or imposing our will at the expense of what God has done so masterfully, but working together.

God has gifted us with imagination, with creativity, and with the ability to achieve great masterworks of engineering. But we are at our best when we work together with God. Gardens like Duke are a great example.

I am looking forward to more “day trip” excursions. This new camera has an appetite that absolutely has to be satisfied!

Check back soon for the spectacular tulips! – DEREK