Chinese Lantern Festival - Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Just a short drive to the west from downtown Charlotte, you'll find the charming little southern town of Belmont, NC, home to one of North Carolina's crowning jewels, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden .  I've been feeling somewhat frustrated about the quality of my photos lately, the weather was perfect, and taking in the final days of the Chinese Lantern Festival would provide great subject matter to put into practice all of the tutorials I've been studying.  The exhibit was so much more than I expected, and my only regret is that we did not experience its illuminated splendor at night.   The lanterns and fall decor will soon disappear, and the the Garden will be transformed into a winter wonderland.  Worth putting on your bucket list.  For my photographer friends out there who like to submit their work, check out the Garden's Shutterbug Photo Contest.  

Belmont has no shortage of unique, homegrown restaurants to please your palate, and I can't sign off without giving a 5 Star plus shout out to The String Bean.  Not only do they have a mouth-watering menu and fantastic service, it's home to a butcher shop full of fresh meats, poultry, and fish, as well as a unique wine and beer market.  Be prepared to spend more than a few hours eating, drinking, and browsing!  I'm looking forward to many trips to Belmont and experiencing all its charm!