This view is magic. The island of Kauai, the Garden Isle, erupts from the ocean, showering the land with glowing green gems of mountains. You might have to drive for hours to arrive at this point, but as soon as you step out of the car, cross the grass, and descend down onto the dirt the past events of the day will melt away. The expansive valley views ground you to present and twirl your perspective around its tree branch of a wand, pulling it slowing out of the confines of your mind and exposing it to possibilities and twinkling jungle sounds. Welcome to Kauai. I hope you one day visit.
“Live in the sunshine. Swim in the sea. Drink the wild air.” One of my favorite quotes by Ralph Waldo Emerson effectively captures my feelings as I walked across this beach, taking in the view from all angles. One thing he might have added had he explored this spot would be “Shower in the waterfalls.” I don’t know of many places on earth where that might be as applicable as in Hawaii but I am grateful for this location, where it was our only option.
Sunset above the clouds, across the ocean, and over the city viewed from a mountaintop garden on a tropical island... Sometimes I feel like I am making these scenarios up! Luckily the photos serve as proof that this unique beauty and perspective does exist, even in urban areas. I love seeing green spaces preserved in and around cities where people can retreat and the earth can rejuvenate.