As I sped down the highway on my way to Northampton, I saw a small sign indicating an attraction— “Bridge of Flowers.” At the next exit I got off and followed the signs to Shelburne Falls. It was a twelve-mile detour, but when you have no set plans that’s not an issue.
When I’d done a google search the night before, The Bridge of Flowers hadn’t been listed. It should have been at the top of the list. It’s gorgeous. Transformed from an abandoned trolley bridge, it is now a spectacular garden with views of the Deerfield River and town. The standouts in the display were throngs of dahlias in a potpourri of colors, sizes, and shapes.
When I’d gotten my fill of flowers (and was very, very hot) I walked through the small town. I was delighted to find a shop filled with the work of two excellent potters: Molly Cantor and Jenifer Morier. Molly was there and we chatted for quite some time. I happily bought some pieces, both because they are superb and because they will be a remembrance of this trip.
My late lunch was eaten in a shady area looking at the bridge and town.
I headed south, resuming my path to Northampton. The first (and only) stop was at Smith College to see their botanical garden. It was 98 degrees, there was no shade, and the air was so still it felt as if someone had encased the area in plastic. I lasted about ten minutes.
I’ve been in Northampton several times and decided I didn’t have the energy to walk around.
At the motel I fell into a coma-like heat induced sleep.