Never Judge a Book by...

 

I'll admit that I was a little bit dubious about checking this book out of the library a few days ago. I imagined it would be just another dry account of two men's professional accomplishments. I couldn't have been more wrong. It is turning out to be a fascinating look at one of the United States' most exciting, if also turbulent, eras. Already, I've learned boatloads about the creation of New York City's Central Park, Prospect Park, and, yes, even Yosemite National Park. 

Portrait

 

Floral Art

 

I spotted this lovely arrangement a couple of mornings ago through a restaurant window. They're silk, but could easily pass for the real thing. Moments later, I spoke with the restaurant's "events coordinator" who told me that the owners also display a number of floral paintings created by a local artist.