Wonders of Western New York

My family has an overwhelming appreciation for nature which may explain why six years ago we packed up and moved a whole street over to live on Canal Road, a quaint little street located in the outskirts of Lockport, NY. Quite a journey, huh? These pictures are from my driveway and on the right you can just barely see the Erie Canal which has been drained for the winter months. These images represent a place where I really feel “at home.” Although I really enjoy the hustle and bustle of living in the city, there is a sense of comfort your home provides you which simply cannot be replaced by a college dorm. Looking out from my living room windows and observing the beauty of the
Erie Canal allows me to reminisce on my younger years and makes me feel a strong nostalgia for my past. There is something so peaceful and tranquil about the continuous flow of the Canal on a warm summer day which brings back memories that I will never forget. That steady flow reminds me that even though that water will not halt for anything and life is ever-changing and unfaltering, you can‘t forget about where you came from. I may go away for years but when I return, I will be assured that the Canal will be steadily flowing, a constant in an often chaotic world. This reminds me that as much as I may change, grow, adapt, etc. my family will be that constant in my life as I will be for them. We all have that warm and fuzzy place we flock to when the world seems to overpower us, and this just happens to be mine! :)

This third image is one that I took this past fall during a trip to Letchworth State Park with my family. Letchworth State Park comprises 14,350 acres along the Genesee River and has some of the most beautiful waterfalls I have ever seen. With a brother who is a conservationist and a dad who has loved the outdoors since he was a young boy, it comes natural for me to have a tremendous appreciation for the outdoors. This picture here shows one of the larger waterfalls which is absolutely breath-taking. Here is a link to the website if you would like some more information about Letchworth http://www.letchworthpark.com. I highly suggest taking a trip to this beautiful park!