Adventure 15
The start of the COVID-19 pandemic taking full swing, everything begins to shut down and close. We are taking it seriously, keeping 6 ft distance from everyone, washing our hands several times throughout the day, and avoiding touching anything. Our adventures are completely outdoors, in open areas free from crowds.
“They can’t close the outdoors” we said, assured it would be safe. We soon learn that all of the state parks are now closed. This includes the waterfalls and beaches we were planning on visiting to for our next excursion. We pass by the parking lot of Rainbow falls which is not only gated off, but manned by armed guards. We realize they mean business, this is serious.
My mom has made it clear that she would really love to see a botanical garden, to take pictures of tropical flowers. She has also expressed her motivation in coming is to see her daughter before she dies. No one has argued with her on that.
After a quick google search, my partner comes up with the idea of visiting Umauma Falls. He calls and confirms that they are open, and have tropical gardens to tour on foot.
We take off and embark on exploring a new place we have never seen- the adventure begins!
This turns out to be a spectacular place.
There is a three tier waterfall cascading into a lush valley, the far bank of which is lined with African Tulip trees that bloom with bright red flowers.
Not a single person is seen as we meander through the Peace Garden which is abundant in tropical plants including Jade flowers, Anthurium, Hibiscus, and Ohia Lehua (just to name a few). Guava and banana plants provide sweet fruits, and we are encouraged to pick whatever we would like.
As this remarkable adventure comes to a close, I realize what a beautiful thing it is to let go of plans and open to new possibilities that may have gone unseen.
100for2020 