The Enchanted Garden

I read on a wise person's blog recently, to make sure you bring a camera with you when you are driving around.  Even in your daily travels, you never know what you will find along the way.  Thanks to the technology of cell phones these days - it's even easier than ever.  ...and may I say, it was sage wisdom.

Friday I was making a pilgrimage out West and took a favorite scenic route to make the drive more interesting.  Along the way I came upon, what I now call, "The Enchanted Garden".  Here is a comprehensive view from the road:

The "Enchanted Garden" - view one

The property is sprawling, and I have seen it from time to time - with interesting yard art over the years.  But this year was different.  Obviously the garden designer is an avid purple lover, and to some it could be a bit overwhelming.  On the other hand, the 'green/blank space' gives your eye (and mind) enough relief - that I find this all so visually pleasing.

As you see, a lot of 'green' space with vignettes of interest deep in the property

I would have to suspect that the designer is also the owner of the home?  The landscaping and yard art is so personal, that this certainly is not a traditional textbook design.  While it might be personal, there has been quite an investment - both time and financially.  The driveway is edged in re-purposed cobblestone pavers, which is such a nod to the history of Chicago.

What a GRAND entrance, don't you think?

If you click on the photos in this post, the images will enlarge.  This will give you a chance to see some of the other visual treasures deeper in the property.  There is a large totem between the trees close to the home.  Seating areas with bird houses (some are big enough to be 'towers'), gazing balls, antiques and native plants and grasses keep your eye traveling near and far.

Zoom in (double click on the photo)!  Note some details closer to the home

Every corner of this property was planned and planted, including the right side of the entrance which butted up to the next door neighbor's drive.  No detail was overlooked.  I can't wait to see what blooms later in the season.

I felt a bit guilty and awkward as I took the 5 minutes to photograph this magical place.  It seemed voyeuristic and a tad invasive to be standing on the edge of the road, 'ogling' someone's work.  I wish I knew more of the garden designer that created this enchanted place.  I'll "Google" it - and see if there is local info on it, see if there is a local garden club that is doing a 'garden walk'.  Who knows - I may even get bold enough to stop by on a Saturday afternoon?  Anyone who paints their front door purple can't be too scary, right?!

So - if you haven't thought of it before, bring that point n' shoot pocket camera with you.  Take advantage of that "smart" technology.  Take the road less traveled, "It makes all the difference."

Pacem, amicis...

© All content and photography by Shyrlene Foster at The Bunnies Buffet (unless noted otherwise)