by Carole Conklin – WDOMI staff
When was the last time you took a walk through a garden and stopped to appreciate the beautiful scenery of plants and colorful flowers and breathe in the aroma of their scents? Since losing my sight back in 1991, I haven’t honestly had an interest to do so since I wasn’t able to appreciate the scenery. Yes, I could still enjoy the sounds and scents of my surroundings, but it just wasn’t as appealing for me since I couldn’t visually enjoy it. Of course, having someone with me to describe the plants/beautiful flowers and their shapes/colors is certainly appreciated, but to be able to take in the view with my own senses is more enjoyable and stimulating.
Almost 2 years ago, Mel Tanzman “Executive Director, Westchester Disabled On the Move” shared with me about a ribbon cutting ceremony he attended of a Sensory Garden at Crawford Park, 122 N. Ridge St., Rye Brook. A Sensory Garden is a garden designed for all populations – those with disabilities, children, patients in a hospital, and the general public. The idea behind the Sensory Garden is to combine elements that will stimulate all of the senses – fragrant plants, textured plants, vivid colors, and the element of sound.
I was intrigued by this and had planned one day to visit this garden but didn’t get to go until last fall where Debbie Reisner, Chief of Staff/Confidential Secretary for Town of Rye arranged for Laura Klein, President of the Friends of Crawford Park and Theresa Stevens, Landscape Designer, Friends of Crawford Park to give me a tour. I got to walk through and feel a few of the different textures of plants(leaves that were velvety, spiky) as well as leaves that had a minty scent. There were also a few flowers that I was able to touch. Though the fountain wasn’t on at the time, I was told that besides being able to hear the falling of the water, there is a bubbling sound.