The desert and the parched land will be glad;
Isaiah 35:1-2
the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.
Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom;
it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.
The glory of Lebanon will be given to it,
the splendor of Carmel and Sharon;
they will see the glory of the Lord,
the splendor of our God.
Dare I say that, “Today, you are in for a treat!”?
Yes, I am a writer, and I know that words can evoke powerful images. But this is one of those days where I have to be a photographer first. Because, Oh My Goodness, there are no words to describe some of the colors we were privileged to witness Thursday at Duke Gardens.
“Too bad you’re not here for the spring daffodil and tulip displays,” I had said to Rebekah’s cousin, Zandra, as we were walking in through the entry. “I’m not sure what’s on display that’s going to be special today.”
Talk about clueless! I had no idea how amazing the terraced gardens would be. I could give you the names of all the plants, and I could try to describe them to you; But why bother when I have these photographs to share instead!
The Sarah P. Duke Gardens consist of approximately 55 acres, featuring lavishly landscaped, lawned, and wooded areas at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. If you have the time, you can enjoy up to 5 miles of walks and pathways throughout the sprawling site.
The design, punctuated by layer upon layer of contrasting and complementing beddings that are planned and planted by the season, needs more than a few still photographs – even really good ones. So here, in addition to the image gallery below, is a short video.
North Carolina!
Just one more unbelievably lovely fall day here in North Carolina. Just another overwhelmingly brilliant display of garden landscaping. Just another consummately beautiful example of a partnership between the Creator and the created, the reverent application of intelligence and imagination and stewardship by humankind.
Enjoy the pictures. But then, if you are anywhere within reach, take a morning or an afternoon to stroll around the gardens yourself. You will be glad that you did.
Meanwhile, while you enjoy this particular amazing new day, keep your eyes open for the wonder and the love and the light that is all around us – DEREK
Then God looked over all that he had made, and it was excellent in every way. This ended the sixth day.
Genesis 1:31
The beauty created by Mother Nature all over our planet never ceases to amaze me. Thank you for sharing, Derek.
it is good stuff!!
[…] is also true in places such as (and I have linked these in case you want to see some photographs) Duke Gardens, the Arboretum, and North Carolina Botanical […]