A Spring Visit to Bryn Athyn Cathedral

One quick glance from the street 

and you might think you are in Europe. 

The gothic styled Bryn Athyn Cathedral almost

seems out of place in this suburban neighborhood. 

The Swedenborgian cathedral is one of three buildings on the landscaped grounds. 

Along with the cathedral, 

initially funded by John Pitcairn, 

you can tour 

Glencairn Museum and Cairnwood Estate. 

These three buildings are considered the historic district of Bryn Athyn

which itself is very small. 

The Swedenborgian faith 

is based on the theology of 

Emanuel Swedenborg. 

I do love to visit the gardens there. 

If you go, try to make it in spring or summer. 

The grounds are really beautiful.

This location is on my top ten list of 

scenic places to photograph in 

Montgomery County, PA.

Location: 1005 Cathedral Rd., Bryn Athyn, PA 

Tours: Tuesday through Friday between 1:00-4:00 pm, $5

The Ceramics of Deruta, Italy

While making our way through Umbria 

- which I fell in love with, by the way-

we found ourselves touring a family ceramic shop in Deruta. 

Ceramics is Deruta's claim to fame 

since the middle ages, 

thanks to the local clay found there. 

Today, Deruta continues to provide the world 

with exquisite maiolica. 

As you can see, 

each piece is meticulously hand painted 

with intricate designs.  

I could not even pick a favorite pattern.  

I loved all the rich colors on the white backdrop 

no matter what the design was. 

Of course we had to come home with something, 

but choosing was so difficult. 

I finally selected a piece 

which was carefully packaged in order to make it home safely.

There a many ceramist shops in Deruta, 

we visited Ceramiche Gialletti Giulio 

located at 

Via Tiberina Sud, 304, 06053 Deruta PG, Italia

Images from this visit can be seen here. 

Leaf Peeping in PA

A beautiful fall day + Hubby takes the day off= Day Trip!

Off for a little hike in Ralph Stover State Park.

We went to the High Rocks Vista.
(Vista parking at 40.4409373, -75.07462)

Once you arrive, park in the lot and walk directly toward the view.

Turn left on the yellow blazed trail and you will see some breathtaking views

from about 4 overlooks that are placed in easy walking distance to each other.

We also visited the Stover-Myers Mill on Dark Hollow Road

located just outside the park.
(Mill at 40.437627,-75.124344)
(Parking at 40.435684,-75.122219, short trail to mill.)

The volunteer here was friendly and knowledgeable.

The place is undergoing restoration,

which makes me so happy.

Right now everything inside is taken apart,

but soon it will be an operational mill again.

And a half mile further up the road

on Covered Bridge Road is

Cabin Run Covered Bridge.
(40.432025,-75.112542)

Next we made our way to Black Bass Hotel

for a lunch with a view.
(40.40677,-75.037676 Parking across street.)

The dining area overlooks the Delaware River

and has big picture windows from which you can enjoy your view.

The hotel is on the National Register of Historic Inns.

I love those places!

I can't wait for retirement so we can do this everyday. ;)

Do you have a favorite spot for leaf peeping?

I'd love to know!

Lavender Day Dreams

Tucked away on a quiet hill in the Bucks County country side you'll find the

Peace Valley Lavender Farm.

The farm overlooks Lake Galena and

is just outside the bounds of Peace Valley Park.

You'll know you have arrived when you see the chickens by the roadside...

...and the fragrance of lavender wafting through the air.

The gift shop rests on the top of the hill behind neatly planted rows of lavender.

Once you arrive, the charm feeds your curiosity.

And inside, you will not be disappointed.

A variety of lavender delights await you...

all displayed creatively throughout this rustic little shop.

Here's a peek:

Is your heart a pitter patter yet?

We made our purchases and for an additional $1

They will gift bag them in lavender!

When you are in Southeastern PA

be sure to take the time to visit this tranquil little farm and gift shop.

After all, lavender is what day dreams are made of...

Tie your visit in with a visit to Doylestown
or Peace Valley Park.

802 New Galena Road
Doylestown, PA 18901
Tel: 215. 249.8462
Purchase online at www.peacevalleylavender.com

My complete set of photos can be found here.