It was one of those “perfect storm” snow storms. The type of storm where the snow clings to the trees and grass. But, somehow it doesn’t stick to the roads.
Mesmerized by the beauty around me, as I was completing my morning deliveries. A thought came to mind “We should go to the Botanic Gardens today!”. My mind was made up. This was the perfect day to go!
I texted my partner; “it’s so cold though”. I really had to push the sale; “At least it’s not windy! It’s so BEAUTIFUL with the snow on the trees. I’m done having excuses for everything! Winter or Summer we can enjoy every day!”. She was sold! Heck yeah!
Let’s go to the Botanic Gardens!
Upon arriving there; we saw three other cars in the parking lot. The 36° day wasn’t exactly “welcoming” to everyone.
Our little professional hiker took the lead. Sometimes I set out on a route and need to stick to a path. Other times I just want to meander around. This was one of those meandering days. I enjoy letting him lead on those “wandering around” hikes.
His little legs took a quick right off the trail. We ended up in the “Secret Garden”. The stone masonry arch was the highlight of the garden. This was worth the trip!
We walked through the stone arch path, and it led us to the Children’s area.
Immediately I was greeted with bright colored bird houses.
They were the first thing to catch my eye. The bright colored bird houses contrasting the fresh white snow.
We spent a little bit of time in the Children’s area. Monkeying around and skimming the pond.
Behind the Children’s area led to another path. It’s a labyrinth!
Again, this was the perfect snow storm. Where the snow doesn’t stick to the gravel or roads. And yes, the labyrinth was clear!
We wandered and meandered through some more. These tiny-baby pinecones caught my eye! So tiny! So cute!
Almost up to the Spillway; we spotted a little sign “Pond View Trail”. It was a very short (less than one minute) trail leading up to a beautiful pond.
Ain’t it a pretty sight?! As we took in the beauty of the pond; we read a placard about the reservoir. This area was used to supply clean drinking water to Morgantown area residents. Right where we were standing was a giant “lake” until 40 years ago. In 1980, they drained the reservoir. The full history is found on the WV Botanic Gardens website.
Be sure to wear hiking boots or waterproof shoes for the pond off-shoot. It’s muddy as heck! We had lots of laughs and little giggles as we stomped through the mud!
The spillway was breathtaking! The snow-covered Rhododendrons growing in the banks of Tibbs Run. The run of the stream flowing through the Wintry scape.
Hiking is a true delight!
It feels like a direct connection with our Creator. Out in the woods; it’s just you (creation) surrounded by trees (creation).
Wonder as you wander.
Joy and amazement comes with every step forward.
In the dead of Winter; the landscape looks so incredibly different. Without the shade of the trees, nothing is hidden. The views are barren and vast. It’s a whole new perspective of the land.
The beauty of Winter does exist. Yet, very few find it welcoming.
I encourage everyone to invite themselves to do something “out of the ordinary”.
Nature is extraordinary.
I am so thankful and blessed to call West Virginia home.
The “Mountain State”.
This is “Almost Heaven”.
The place I belong 💙💛
A link to CAmeRA Photography below: 👇
ACE Mindset Journey 
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