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Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Tale of Two Parks

So another great adventure with Robin.  We worked with speed of the camera to let in light. I learned how to get more detail by changing the speed of the camera so that we would always have the proper light on our meter.   The pictures below show just what happens with the light when you change just the speed.

 
 
 
 
 
 

 
The two parks today were very different, but ever so the same.  Here is the tale of two parks:
 
 
The city park(Eloise Butler Wildflower Gardens).
 
Although in the city; you feel as if you are lost in the wilderness.  All around you the sounds of cars fade away to turkey gobbles, and bird calls. This is truly a sanctuary in the city.  The programs for kids are outstanding.  They have a "do it yourself" Jr. Nature Detective backpack that gives you all the tools to do a nature scavenger hunt with maps, compass, and identifying books.  Once you have completed the activities in the guide book your child gets a badge.  My 4 year old was so excited when she received her bag she immediately had me arrange play dates with her cousins to take them there to get there own badges. This is a great place so close that you can take your lunch break and feel refreshed for the rest of the day.  When I don't have time to go to the country you will find me in the wilderness of the city at this park.
 
 
 
 
 
 and the country park (U of M Landscape Arboretum).
 
So I've never seen a turkey at the Arboretum, but I have heard the birds like at Eloise Butler.  There are more similarities than differences between the city and this country park.  They both have great children's activity.  The Arboretum has a giant sand play area with water pipes and tools so the little ones can build irrigation systems. There's little houses all over the grounds for the kids to play house.  Some are equipped with brooms and other tools.  There is a little reading library outside with a natural sitting area.  There is also a stage for the little ones to put on plays, and don't forget the maze.  This is a large place to explore, but to me it feels to groomed, and not like you are in the wilderness.  It is a great place to learn about plants, and to get in shape.  This is a country park that is all city.  Even if you plan a day trip you will need at least three days to explore all this place has to offer.  It is one of my favorite venues for it's shear beauty and knowledge it gives.  When my family has a full day with nothing to do you will find us here teaching our 4 year old about plants.
 
 
I hope you explore these parks and send us your pictures or better yet come tag along with us and share your knowledge with us.  Robin as usual thank you for helping me develop :> my photography skills.  This lesson was truly remarkable.

 
 

 
 

2 comments:

  1. This was my favorite outing so far! I can see you are getting better with the camera and this post does a great job of telling about the parks!

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  2. Thanks Robin. I'm only getting better by your help.

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