People come to the Smokies for a lot of reasons, but the ones who leave satisfied tend to share a single trait. They spend real time outside. It sounds obvious, and yet plenty of visitors arrive, fill the week with indoor stops and driving, and go home having barely noticed the mountains around them. Getting close to this landscape does not require serious hiking experience or expensive gear. It requires a bit of planning, a willingness to slow down, and a base that keeps you near the quiet rather than the traffic. Continue reading Becoming One With Nature in the Smoky Mountains→
It’s no secret that the Park Avenue malls frequently play host to impressive public art installations, but I wasn’t expecting to stumble upon this year’s exhibition while walking home from the Morgan Library. As I crossed East 36th Street, I was greeted on both the north and south sides of Park Avenue by a pair of exuberant floral sculptures created by Israeli artist Dorit Levinstein, whose work is represented by Eden Gallery. It was my first encounter with these sculptures, and their bold colors and joyful energy immediately brightened the afternoon. Better yet, they’ll remain on view through May 2027, giving New Yorkers and visitors plenty of time to enjoy them. Continue reading Dorit Levinstein’s Vibrant Sculptures on The Park Avenue Malls→
A garden is always one of the nicest parts of the home, especially during the warmer months. At least, that’s the case when it’s properly looked after, which often takes a lot of time and effort. But, you can always create a low-maintenance garden if you don’t want to spend a lot of time on it, and still want a nice-looking garden.
One of the most joyful surprises awaiting visitors to the New York Botanical Garden’sFlower Power exhibition isn’t growing in the gardens — it’s parked right up front. Covered from bumper to bumper in vibrant flowers, psychedelic lettering, and saturated rainbow colors, artist Snoeman’s painted bus immediately transports visitors back to the optimistic spirit of the late 1960s — specifically 1967’s Summer of Love.
Boosting your home’s curb appeal doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. While outdoor projects can quickly start to seem like too much, a few thoughtful updates can make a big difference without turning into a major headache.
