A Visit to the Highlands

Finally, a beautiful spring day in Rochester, NY.  Ginger, the photogenic Bichon Poo, indicated that a W-A-L-K would be the proper course of action.  In fact, she was even willing to take another abhorrent ride in the automobile to get to Highland Park, a most wonderful walking spot.

 

Do not be confused by this single malt.

From May 11th through 20th, the park is the site of the  Rochester Lilac Festival, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary.  To miss this gathering would be an onerous olfactory oversight, and and an objectionable omission by not honoring Olmsted. 

What?  Not familiar with Frederick Law Olmsted?  He is to American Landscape Design what Steve Gadd is to session drumming.  Mr. Olmsted designed New York City's Central park, and a number of parks in Rochester, but his crowning jewel is Highland.  If this is not completely true for the wonderful walkways through the unusual terrain, a stroll through the fragrance of the lilacs leaves no doubt.

But not yet.  The long hard winter has delayed that splendid experience somewhat.  Probably more than last year.  Nonetheless, a visit is always worthwhile, any time of year. "And particularly as a warmup to the festival," added Ginger.

Blue Star Creepers, larger than life.

Magnificent magnolias.

Yes, Kathy T., at times, the sky actually is blue in Rochester.

A few of the magnolias were in full bloom.

Most still had a way to go.

Just need a few more sunny days,
which have been in short supply recently.

But the forsythia doesn't seem to mind.

The pansy bed was not completely filled out.

But even so, the geometric design was apparent.

These two-tone daffodils are somewhat reminiscent
of the logo of a local company,
prominent in bygone days. 

Crinkly daffodils!

Alpine asters (?)
in the form of the Moosehead constellation.

Fivesythias.

More blue sky silhouettes a pair of trees.
The one on the left is one of Jennifer's Conifers.

There may be reasons to avoid sitting on this bench,
but absolutely none occur to me.

Notsythias.

Not ready-dendron.

This delicate blossom of a flowering tree looked as if a puff of wind would destroy it.

If you whistle, mimicking its call,
the Cardinal will often call back,
unlike contractors.

Tulip beds still sleeping.

Public service announcement for the elderly:
Public restrooms reside in the Conservatory beyond.

Andromeda, another constellation of flowers.

The south view to the Bristol Hills is available any time of year.

City skyline to the north is best when foliage is not in place.

The past winter makes one wonder about Willy's sanity.

Gnarly trees and blue star creepers.

Ginger approves!

This is one of many great places to rest
after a long morning walk.
But don't take her bark for it.
Go see for yourself!