Flute-a-Pillar

After a weekend forecast of persistent rain, how could I not take advantage of a refreshing Sunday-morning break in the clouds and head outdoors. At the recommendation of a fellow BRAS member, I decided to visit the Schoepfle Garden (one of the many metro parks operated by Lorain County), to stretch my legs a bit and take some photos.

The park--only a short drive through the cornfields from Oberlin--consists of a traditional European style formal garden (complete with meticulously-manicured topiary), surrounded by acres of natural woodland that edge a stretch of the Vermillion River. Though this adorably perky green sculpture was undeniably charming, I'll admit I generally prefer seeking out slightly more chaotic and hidden treasures.

A jumbled leafy mess at first glance, the tantalizing geometry of this spiderweb drew my attention...

...and maybe raccoons are so common here as to be a nuisance, but what beautiful little five-fingered footprints they leave behind...

As cliche as it can be, I don't suppose I'll ever get tired of gazing at bits of dew glimmering in the morning sunlight...

...or finding bold bits of color that glare out atop beds of mud and decay...

 Nature high aside, nothing prepared me for what I later encountered in the children's garden. I'll let this one speak for itself...I really have nothing else to add!

..."OF COURSE"...  

                                     Hmmmm...

A Flute-a-Pillar... What they won't think of next!

I certainly didn't expect musical instruments to feature so prominently in the local landscaping...

But no trumpet...aw shucks!