Olawunmi

A magical garden full of wonders to behold. Majestic trees, the flowers blooming in their coats of many colours, even the sprawling well groomed lush green grass look exotic.

Hiking on a hill then the park of many colours.

Taking a hike on the hills then in a park. The trees are magnificent as they give shade to the influx of people just wanting to enjoy nature.

The swiftness of these birds in water is astounding. One would think their webbed feet would be a hinderance but, on the contrary, they Walz their way through as they peck at algae and other edibles in their domain.

Everything these big guys do is big and pleasant to behold. Watching them in their enclosure in the heat of the day, washing themselves down.

These gardens are purposeful in how they’re set up to recreate the original habitat of the flora and fauna conserved there. This place meets the average human needs for emotional detox, environmental shock absorber and stress relief.

The hilltop is where the best view of the city is, then I discover history as well. This historic brick watchtower on the hills, reminder of a time past and the history of an era. This tells a symbolic story of an architectural style when baroque and rococo were the vogue.

Nature and adventure lover that I am, I was curious to explore this forest and enjoy the tranquility that it offers. Thought I’d see deer prancing by. Lately there has been increased public awareness about wolf sightings.

Looking for the city‘s koi enclosures landed me in the Japanese botanical gardens. I saw the turtles instantly, they were relaxing under the cool shade of some bushes, they scuttled away as I approached and dove into the cool waters of the pond.

Like a hunter meandering the forests setting his traps for game, I sit beside this pond watching and waiting just to catch a glimpse of these amazing looking creatures and trap their activities on film but it has proved to be a daunting task until now. First I spotted one, then another and then, many more relaxing under the shady curtains of this tree with its full soft branches hanging down into the water.

The city connotes hustle, bustle and everything that is contrary to the peace of the human psyche and stability. Then some smart city planners thought about making the environment green, such that it resonates the serenity of a forest get-away. A relaxation spot, near enough to recover from daily stress.

The ambience is breathtaking, soothing and indeed healing! For that time-out to gather your thoughts and be back in touch with the inner you.