We discovered a fun new place this weekend. We had not been down to Bartlett Arboretum in Belle Plaine before, but made the drive down to check it out. A quick Wikipedia search showed that the gardens were purchased and revived by Robin Macy, one of the original members of the Dixie Chicks (she left before they got famous, I guess). Bartlett Arboretum is home to many unique and/or historic/award-winning trees and plants. We were there while the tulips were in bloom, and had a wonderful time wondering around, enjoying the scenery. They also have a darling little "teeny tiny tot town" village with miniature-sized buildings, and a "story-walk" book trail that takes you on an adventure through a wooded area, while you follow along and read a story book. What a fun little find!
There was a swing set with two swings, and each swing was connected to a pulley-system, and swinging made something happen. Above, Jonah is playing with a wooden figure that would dance and strum his banjo; there was also a rocket the swung back and forth and a bunch of wind chimes that danced around when the swings were going. Very creative and clever!
Fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon; I'm sure we will be back to see how the gardens change throughout the year.
Beginning of the "story walk"
In the middle of the story walk, there's a fun homemade swing hanging from a massive tree, so we took a little swing break, then got back to the story.
"Teeny Tiny Tot Town"
There was a swing set with two swings, and each swing was connected to a pulley-system, and swinging made something happen. Above, Jonah is playing with a wooden figure that would dance and strum his banjo; there was also a rocket the swung back and forth and a bunch of wind chimes that danced around when the swings were going. Very creative and clever!
I loved these pink flowering trees! We spoke with Robin Macy on our way out, and she said these trees are difficult to grow in Kansas climate, but because of the somewhat sheltered environment within the gardens, they are able to thrive, and she has three on the property. So pretty!
Fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon; I'm sure we will be back to see how the gardens change throughout the year.
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