The crisp morning air welcomed me as I approached Anthony Chapel, the true reason for my visit. Nestled among towering trees, the chapel exudes a serene charm that feels timeless. Its simple yet elegant architecture blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings, inviting visitors to pause, breathe, and reflect.
I lingered on the steps, noticing the delicate patterns etched into the wooden beams above. Sunlight filtered through narrow windows, casting soft, golden light across the polished wooden floors. Every detail, from the subtle arches to the carefully placed benches, seemed designed to inspire contemplation. The gentle hush of the forest wrapped the building in calm, making it easy to forget the world outside.
Nearby, Carillon Tower rose gracefully, its bells ringing at intervals, sending rich, sonorous tones echoing through the trees. The music seemed to ripple through the forest, vibrating softly in my chest. I closed my eyes, letting the sound and quiet settle over me, creating a rare, meditative pause in the day.
As I wandered along a shaded trail, I embraced shinrin-yoku, the Japanese practice of forest bathing that I first learned while living in Japan. The earthy scent of moss and fallen leaves, the dappled sunlight, and the whisper of branches overhead invited me to slow down and fully notice. I reached out to touch the rough bark of a tree, feeling its texture under my fingertips and grounding myself in the present. A spiderweb glittered with dew, and the intricate patterns of the forest seemed alive with quiet detail. Being here, near a place of such intentional beauty, I felt a profound sense of peace—a gentle reminder that some destinations are not just seen, but truly felt.
By the time I left Anthony Chapel, I carried with me not just memories of bells and trees, but a deeper appreciation for spaces that nurture reflection, serenity, and a connection to something larger than ourselves.
– Kari