The Path of Life

One last look after entering the Path of Life.

Yesterday we had a cranky summer-cold-afflicted toddler on our hands.  We had initially had plans to go to a family picnic, but weren't sure that he'd last, so on a whim we set off to Harpoon Brewery and the Path of Life Gardens for a late lunch and impromptu adventure.  We figured that he'd fall asleep on the way, making up for his previously-cut-short nap, and that if he had a fit instead of falling asleep, we'd just stop in Brattleboro and have our outing there. Turns out this was an excellent idea! 

And we're off, through the Labyrinth.

It's good to pick up friends on the way.

We found this place on one of our trips north to our favorite B&B in Bethlehem, NH.  It was completely by accident, but we had a great time.  I remember going into the labyrinth and becoming just a touch panicked when I couldn't easily find my way out.  I still wonder how many people have had a full-on panic attack when they couldn't get out.  But we were brave, and headed in.  There was music in the background - I think it was a fair amount of Michael Jackson - but it was very reminiscent of the movie Labyrinth - wasn't that David Bowie?  Anyway, along the way, we ran into several people - several times - while trying to find our way through.  The Boy had no hesitation in making friends.

Our own Stonehenge of sorts.

Getting a better look.

Couldn't have said it better myself.

A whirlwind of action.

Finally out, we found the Stonehenge - carved wooden sculptures that had been set aflame for a charred effect.  Very cool.  Photos are better in the bright sun. Then off to these fun twirly things, and through a peace garden.  We did not take the path of life as it was meant to be taken.  We skipped back and forth, letting the Boy take the lead.

Lots to explore.

One can even get it to a touch of trouble, if one tries.

Motivation (<--- Less, ^More^)

Joining the Big Band.

Through the whole thing, the Boy was full of wonder.  Full of energy and awe at every turn.  And not at all daunted by some of the challenges that even I found challenge in.  I gotta give the kid credit, by this time I was a bit tired, but he wanted to see everything - and I suppose I did too.  I don't recall the teepees from our last visit.  In fact it seems like they've added quite a lot - or we skipped some phases of life last time?



At any rate, I think we saw nearly everything this time.  And even had a moment in Sorrow to change someone's diaper.  By the time we left it was fully dark and so, of course there are no photos of the end of our journey, but the Buddha saw us off and wished us well into the night.  The Boy slept soundly on the way back and we concluded that we'll definitely come back.

Off to investigate that 1/32th percent of his heritage.

Awesome, now to the river.

And at the end of the evening, offerings made to a peaceful Buddha.