They're not what you think, Muskegon...

Quite possibly, the strangest plant I've ever seen ... in Michigan, at least.

"The secret of ugliness consists not in irregularity, but in being uninteresting. " --Ralph Waldo Emerson

So, Muskegon, when I go walking or running, no matter how gorgeous the path or trail is, I get tired of it after awhile. Same with driving: It can be a postcard-worthy scene, but if I see it every day, it might as well be some smelly back alley ...

Which, in several Port City cases, is the opposite of a bad thing. The back roads and alleys around here have many hidden gems and, especially now with all of the blooming, smell sweeter than many of the more traversed thoroughfares.

You know how every once in awhile you have one of those moments where you realize life is just writing itself, and you could never have chosen that path or alley? That was my experience running down a grassy alley in the rain a month or so ago. It was gorgeous. It smelled wonderful. It was oddly comforting.

I had to go back and take it at a slower pace. And then, of course, I had to explore other alleys in the area and later around the city. No, I'm not telling you they're all pretty and sweet-smelling and inviting. A few are downright scary, and I usually avoid those, always when alone. Some are just unattractive in the classical sense, but still boast interesting sights or a momentary different view ... But many offer a literal path to discovery of new beauty.

Still skeptical, Muskegon? I understand. That's why I've got some more snapshots for ya. And the best part? These are just my discoveries on some of the alleys I've taken. Who knows what you might find?

See you on the unbeaten paths...

--Imaginer

A whole new meaning of "back alley."

Just as pretty as anything you'll find at the store ... or on the perfectly planned road.

You're not the one fenced in while in the alley...

In the middle of the road ... Nice change from yellow, or white, lines.

Scenes of a unique city...

Nature's pinwheel.