I have been a member of the Botanical Garden for many years. Last year I renewed my membership but only visited one time. I used to walk most of the garden in two or three hours. But I was young. My knees were no problem.
But life passes and I have aged. So have my knees. I can no longer walk three miles at the camper. I can no longer walk the entire Garden. And I was afraid to try. The weatherman promised a warm sunny day. I decided to take a chance.
I planned my day. I decided to take my cane. I wouldn’t push, I would take advantage of the many benches and SIT down often. I would learn if I could still enjoy the Garden. The last time I went I took money for lunch but they only take plastic now.
The night before I went my knees hurt ALL NIGHT. But the sun was out, warming up the day. Unusually warm for April. I decided to take a chance. I wore my compression stockings and knee guards. I was pleasantly surprised. My knees didn’t hurt.
The Garden was still sleeping. Daffodils were blooming and the Persian Buttercups were showing off. In the Old English Garden the magnolia tree was just beginning to bloom. Not many other flowers. Sitting at a table under trees that were only beginning to get leaves I enjoyed talking to two young children — six and almost three. I stopped at the information desk and received needed information on butterfly and hummingbird plants. Preparing for the garden in the country. I planned to return when the crabapple trees were in bloom.
I stopped for lunch, The line For food was VERY LONG and I do not stand in line well. Thankfully a couple let me in front of them. I sat at a table outside and tried playing with water color paints. I could have walked further but the Garden was still sleeping. I had brought a bottle of water with me. Next time I would bring a snack.
Wandering With Spirit 
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