Psst…It’s a Secret Garden

My sister, Christie (Mimi to her 8 grandchildren), has a Secret Garden in her backyard. With her husband, Lee, following with a lawnmower, she created a path that meanders through her native wildflower field. Along the trail, she and her grandchildren have placed fairies, gnomes, and critters.

The field is bordered by a forest of trees Lee planted 20 plus years ago, and that is where the secret lies.

The wooden structure with iron etching announces that we are now at “The Quarry”, referring to their acreage in Roca, Nebraska.

Okay…. it is now time to take you on Mimi’s Trail leading to her magical Secret Garden. But, Psst, remember….. it’s a secret.

To assist me with the journey are four of Christie’s grandchildren: Ezra, Eli, Hayden, and Clara.

Hayden rings the bell calling all to follow.

Our first stop is Mr. Mole who travelled all the way from England to his new home complete with a door and window. Mr. Hedgehog has come for a visit.

Along our way a gnome can be found resting near the succulents in the Sweet Spot.

Ezra displays one of many critters featured along the path.

Keep going…..

It may seem strange to have a basket of rocks on the trail, but each one has a special memory of Christie’s travels. She writes on the back where they were found – Ireland, Italy, Greece, Hawaii, Nebraska, etc……

The Gnome Brothers greet you along your journey.

Next, are statuesque flowers designed out of antique plates and drawer pulls.

This way…..

Wind chimes made by the grandchildren out of sea shells sway gently in the breeze.

The Fairy Watch is especially magical when it twinkles at night under the solar flowers.

Time for a rest under the tree, Mr. Sanders. Who knows, you may even see Winnie the Pooh out and about.

You are now entering the Wild Woods Village with a population of 100 critters, gnomes, fairies, tiny people, and even a Wizard.

Back on the trail we are greeted by more gnomes.

What?! A warning not to enter. What child could not be enticed to do just that.

Circumventing the sign, we are rewarded with entry into the Secret Garden.

Come on in and take a seat. Embrace the serenity in this tranquil setting nestled in the woods.

Fairies fly in the trees above the enchanted space.

And, even a dragon or two….

After leaving the Secret Garden our last stop is the Babbling Brook which is currently under construction. The branch entrance, created by Eli, promises enticing projects yet to come.