Archives for September 2011

Anderson Japanese Gardens

Day Trip to the Japanese Gardens

While visiting family in the Chicago area, they recommended I visit Anderson Japanese Gardens. It is a hidden gem in the middle of Rockford, IL. If you are looking for a place to get away from it all, this is it. It is such a tranquil, zenlike place to spend a couple of hours.

There are waterfalls, bridges, benches and multiple areas to relax. You have the option of joining a guided tour, or wandering about on your own. I chose to wander!

Such great care has been taken in creating an authentic Japanese Garden. They even have Koi fish in the ponds. Everything was so green, including the the water. It reminded me of split pea soup!

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Day Trip, Chicago, Rockford IL, Anderson Japanese Gardens, Bridge, Nature, travel — Garden Bridge

Travel, Day Trip, Anderson Japanese Gardens, Nature, Rockford IL, Chicago — Peaceful Garden

Travel, Day Trip, Chicago, Rockford IL, Anderson Japanese Gardens, Bridge, Nature, Koi fish — Koi Kiss

Travel, Day Trip, Chicago, Rockford IL, Anderson Japanese Gardens, Bridge, Nature — Ducks Eating

Trave, Day Trip, Chicago, Rockford IL, Anderson Japanese Gardens, Bridge, Nature — Ducks and Koi Fish

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It’s Solstice Time!

By Julie Miche Leave a Comment

Celebrating Solstice in Santa Barbara, CA

Solstice is one of my favorite times of the year in Santa Barbara. It’s the official launch of summer, and the Solstice celebration goes on for three days. Alameda Park is where most of the action is. There’s live music, drum circles, dj’s, dancing, performers, food and all kinds of fun vendors there. The whole town gets in on the celebration, with both kids and adults dressing up!

If the park isn’t your thing, you can find Solstice Events at many of the bars in town. There are plenty of private celebrations too. What better excuse to throw a party?

The highlight of the celebration is the Solstice Parade. It’s somewhat of a miniature Mardi Gras atmosphere, with floats, giant puppets, and incredible costumes. Every year there is a different theme. It starts downtown on State Street, and ends at Alameda Park. If you want to see it up close, get there early. A lot of people actually stake out spots along the route the night before.

Manipulated Reality is supported by readers. Product links on Manipulated Reality are referral links for things I like & believe you will too! Read more here.