Bronx Zoo . . . Bringing Back Memories

One of my early posts when I started this blog was about my grandma. I shared a sketch I did of her and shared how close we were. (You can read that post here) She was born and raised in the Bronx, NY. I was also born there. She lived only a few miles from the Bronx Zoo. Most weekends growing up she would take my brother and I on the bus to the zoo. We loved it. I have only fond memories of my time spent with her there.

Today my husband and I went there and it was a beautiful day. It is the first time I have been back there in about 20 years. It was a strange feeling being there without her. When I saw the gates at the entrance (pictured above)and the familiar buildings my eyes welled up with tears. It was something I didn't expect and fought them back. Once we started walking around I felt better. I didn't want to feel sad although part of me did. Its strange how everything looks so much bigger when you are a child. I was happy though to be back there with my husband. I took so many photos!

This photo is of the Bronx River. I love the fall leaves.

I love these old concrete buildings that are found throughout the zoo.

This fountain caught my eye when we were in the butterfly house.

And here is a cutie pie sea lion! It was always my favorite stop as a kid. I loved to watch them swimming around!

I am hoping you will indulge me as I plan on sharing more zoo photos in an upcoming post! Stay tuned for some butterflies!

Botanical Gardens

I was born in the Bronx. That is where both sides of my family are from. I lived there till I was 8 years old and then we moved to the burbs. My grandma continued to live in the Bronx and it was always fun to go visit her on the weekend. She would take us on the bus, we would go the Bronx Zoo and Botanical Gardens. I had not been back to Botanical Gardens since I was a teenager. My husband and I went last fall. It was a beautiful day and of course I brought my camera. I love flowers. I enjoy taking pictures of them and macro shots at that. This first one I had to be quick with my camera because I am terrified of bees! And I needed to get super close for this macro shot!

The colors were beautiful and we enjoyed walking around. I love the richness of the purple in this shot.

There was something pretty around every corner. I thought these looked so interesting. They looked like lavender cotton balls to me.

This orange flower struck me with its deep color. I am looking forward to returning this fall when the weather is cool and crisp and walking amongst all its splendor . . .