A West Hartford resident has created a rock garden treasure hunt for that delights neighborhood residents.

Michael (6) and Ciara (9) love checking out the rock garden/scavenger hunt near their home. Photo courtesy of Katie Frewen

By Ronni Newton

In the Duffy Elementary School neighborhood, a resident has been turning rocks into a variety of characters, “planting” new ones some days, or moving them around, much to the delight of local residents – young and old – who appreciate the diversion.

Katie Frewen, a West Hartford teacher who lives in the Duffy neighborhood and is the mother of Ciara, 9, and Michael, 6, said a daily check of the “rock garden scavenger hunt,” located at the corner of Westminster and Footpath, has been one of the highlights of this spring for her children.

“During this crazy time, this lovely family has created a rock garden scavenger hunt, with rocks painted like M&Ms, Elmo, trolls, R2D2, etc.,” Frewen said. The rocks also depict Disney character, popular emojis, or include inspirational sayings. There are also clues about where to look for the rocks.

A variety of whimsical rocks are “planted” in a garden near Duffy Elementary School. Photo courtesy of Katie Frewen

Frewen said her children like to head to the garden daily, to see if there are any new rocks, or if any of the rocks have moved – which they do occasionally.

“I have seen people stopping by on foot, on bike, and looking out car windows,” said Frewen. “It’s really a bright spot in our neighborhood.”

“It’s something fun and challenging we can do when we walk by,” Ciara said. “If you’re near, just walk over!” added Michael.

It’s a seemingly small gesture, but one which has made for a “happy neighborhood experience in a difficult time,” Frewen said.

‘Silver Lining’ highlights the positive stories in the West Hartford community as residents, businesses, and organizations deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Do you have an idea for a “Silver Lining” story? Please email Ronni Newton at [email protected].

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Michael (6) and Ciara (9) love checking out the rock garden/scavenger hunt near their home. Photo courtesy of Katie Frewen

A variety of whimsical rocks are “planted” in a garden near Duffy Elementary School. Photo courtesy of Katie Frewen

A local resident has created a rock garden scavenger hunt near Duffy Elementary School. Photo courtesy of Katie Frewen