The state of Kansas is often associated with well-known icons: waving wheat, The Wizard of Oz, rolling prairie lands. I love them all (though the Oz references can be overdone). But at this time of year, it’s sunflowers–the state flower–that take center-stage.A few years ago I discovered Grinter Farms sunflower field about 45 minutes from my home. At the time its location wasn’t too well known and I was able to photograph the field in near-solitude. Today it draws quite a crowd (thanks to social media) and it’s become a popular attraction for people near and far.

The farmer, Ted Grinter, and his wife, Kris, are extremely generous with public access to this land. All are welcome to walk through the field, take photos, even cut flowers to take home. They have a cash box on the property with a suggested donation of $1 per bloom, though everything is based upon the honor system.
It’s easy to get lost in all this beauty.  I don’t think I’ll ever tire of seeing this view. It’s so inspiring!
~Leslie
P.S. The artist pictured in the mosaic above is Peggy Wilson, who graciously allowed me to photograph her. You can see her work by clicking on the link from her name. And if you want to see more photos of this gorgeous field, check out the hashtag #grinterfarms on Instagram.