Had a few day staycation with my youngest daughter Bella this week. Quiet, peaceful and we saw a lot of western NY!
The highlight was the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens! It is enormous. We spent 2 hours wandering thru colors, shapes, sounds and beauty. Between seasons it was peaceful, warm and house after house of the most vibrant colors I’ve seen since being in Hawaii. Just gorgeous. Go if you get the chance!
We also hit the The Buffalo Zoo.
The animals were all coming out of winter slumber and they were loving the sun! I’m torn by zoos. I love to learn from the animals and see these creatures close up but some of their captivity seems selfish and cruel. African giraffes in upstate NY doesn’t seem kind? It was warm in the giraffe pen but I’m guessing not Africa warm.
Best meal was at the The Cheesecake Factory,
Biggest take away-
I’ve never been to Niagara Falls, NY as an adult and I was really taken back at the state it is in. The entrance to our kingdom that everyone is so ready to protect with walls and soldiers, looks like a littered ghost town. I realize it is March and winter in western NY can be, well an ugly grey from cold, snow and lack of sun but this level of community abandonment and industrial breakdown is truly sad. Niagara Falls must be one of the places to see from a visitor stand point and I can’t believe this is what we give them. NY should be ashamed. USA should be ashamed and I’m sure Canada is wishing they had a better view. Who owns this place?
I didn’t take any pictures of Niagara Falls, NY except in our hotel and a few on the walkway. Next trip I’m going to explore the deserted areas.
The few days weren’t without mishap or turn back moments but we explored, laughed and cried. I miss my baby when she is at school. She is one of the most beautiful souls with a love for adventure and people.
🩵 Thank you Bella