Nature

Why do people head south in the winter? The simple answer for this gardener is so I can be outside and enjoy nature in ways that don’t require a snow shovel or scraper.

The camellias are blooming here, and the daffodils are getting to the point where we’ll see buds pretty soon. The pansies are out and being installed in many plantings. I had to buy a pot to set on our balcony. I had to.

One of the highlights for me when I visit Brookgreen Gardens is to see the turtles all clustered together on logs leading into the water. The first couple of visits, there were no turtles to see – too cold. Yesterday, there were four. The weather is getting there.

Since so many love squirrels, I tried to get a shot of this southern fox squirrel that scurries around Brookgreen. I did my best, but, folks, he’s quick. Look at that face and those ears.

Sometimes, nature comes in the form of amazing art, and we enjoyed these two beautiful sculptures from artists hailing from Illinois and Colorado.

But, you may still be wondering why return once a week. Well, because if you are going to walk for exercise, you might as well have a good running conversation with friends and be surrounded by live oaks dripping with moss and resurrection ferns.

Here’s hoping you have an opportunity to enjoy nature and the beauty of the outdoors. I just hope it doesn’t include the shovel that starts with an ‘s’. 🙂