Raulston Arboretum

Located in Raleigh, NC the J.C. Raulston Arboretum is part of the

Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University and

a great way to spend an hour or two experiencing

plants in their varied gardens.  This picture was taken on

the rooftop garden above the education center.

http://www.ncsu.edu/jcraulstonarboretum/about/about.html

The walkway below the rooftop garden leading to the

entry to the education center.

Part of the Japanese garden...very peaceful.

Saluda Arts Festival

The annual Saluda Arts Festival was celebrated yesterday in...Saluda, NC.

The weather was warm, the artists were all there and there was music

and food.  I am always amazed at the different places that

these artists hail from.  There was a sculptor from France (now

living in NC), woodcarver from SC, and local

Saluda artists.  Even met a couple from Nebraska! 

  http://www.saluda.com/events.html

This artist casts concrete using large leaves as the mold.

   Makes a rather interesting bird bath.

NCSU Solar House

The North Carolina State University Solar House was constructed almost

30 years ago and is located on the NCSU campus in Raleigh, NC.

The house incorporates both passive and active solar design including

a central sunspace, trombe walls and a solar hot water system.

The house serves as an educational tool for students, professionals

and the community.  http://www.ncsc.ncsu.edu/solar_house_design.php