Ave Maria Grotto

We took a field trip to the Ave Maria Grotto.  It's a collection of art created by Brother Joseph Zoetl on the grounds of the St. Bernard Abbey in Cullman, AL.

Brother Joseph came to America from Germany in 1892.  His creations cover bible stories, famous buildings, and ideas from his own imagination.  All sorts of materials were used including rocks, shells, marbles, glass, beads, tiles, etc.

 We thought this Noah's ark was cute but not very realistic.  Besides the top heavy design, we noticed the complete lack of a deck railing.  No OSHA back then maybe.

 This has nothing to do with the grotto.  But it's a favorite activity lately.  Somehow smelling their feet and comparing fumes is a popular event.

S