by Andrea Crowley-Hughes
One of my favorite pastimes is to explore the natural sights in my home state, New Jersey.
The Watchung Reservation wakes up at the edge of winter and spring.
These flowers are thriving, nurtured by a mixture of sunshine and shade from a canopy of trees.
Duke Gardens in Somerset County boasts a greenhouse with an impressive collection of orchids.
Also at Duke Gardens, bright berries stand out among the autumn brush.
The Palisades Interstate Park offers moderate and challenging hiking, and stunning views of New York state across the river.
As wonderful as nature hikes and trips to gardens are, it’s refreshing to see spring flowers around the block.
Or succulents in a flower pot.
And sometimes there’s unexpected beauty in a tree stump!
