Everyone knows that water is one of the most abundantand popularchemicals on Earth. It's so popular, in fact, that anyone over the age of ten (and some who are even younger) can probably tell you that the chemical formula for water is H2O. So we know that a water molecule is comprised of two hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom that are firmly held together by covalent bonds. We could delve further into the properties of water, as well as its uses, its importance to the planet, and its uniqueness.

Water is irreplaceable and irresistible, but the quality that makes it so is indescribable. It's mysterious, magical, magnificent, majestic, magnetic, and much, much more. Of course, it's necessary for survival; but, beyond that, some ethereal aspect of it has enchanted every culture throughout the ages. From time immemorial, people have brought it into their backyards for use in various decorative incarnations, such as water gardens, fountains, spouts, pools, streams, and waterfalls.

In ancient Chinese and Japanese gardens, the harmonious balance of water, stone, and vegetation was paramount. This was partly achieved by the strategic placement of garden bridges. Early Romans living along the Mediterranean used its waters to stay cool during the blazing summers, by building gazebos or summerhouses over the sea itself, or channeling it to create fountains and pools for their gardens. Victorian England was rife with elaborate, formal water gardens, complete with colorful koi and garden bridges. French water gardens, often built in front of the homes, were unequalled in extravagance and magnitude.

The blend of elements in all of these gardens was crucial. Along with the sheer beauty of the water, the sound of its movement in concert with the wind in the trees, plants, and reeds, added to the soothing effect. Proper positioning of stones, along with myriad types of plants and vibrant flowers, was also fundamental. An integral component, the garden bridge, essentially tied the whole scene together, giving it a sense of continuity, wholeness, and intimacy.

Today, the tradition of the water garden has not only been revived, but is going stronger than ever. From simple reflecting pools and ponds, to casual and formal water gardens, to waterfalls and fountains, people are letting their creativity flow, in order to create the closest thing to nirvana that they can have in their own backyards. As varied as these water gardens are, the one ingredient that's still central to the aesthetics is the garden bridge. And the one place that offers the largest selection of garden bridges is CedarStore.com.

At CedarStore.com, you'll find treated pine, red cedar, and white cedar foot bridges, Japanese foot garden bridges, and 3-foot-wide garden bridges, from 4 to 14 feet long, in plank, single and double rail, spindle rail, picket, and half-picket styles. There's also a selection of maintenance-free wood and vinyl bridges from 3 to 6 feet wide, and 6 to 16 feet long. For the ultimate in visual effects, CedarStore.com's Opti-Breeze? Bridge will cause a dazzling optical illusion that will create a wave of excitement in your garden.

To see all of their breath-taking garden bridges, go to CedarStore.com. To contact one of their customer service professionals or design consultants, or to have a bridge customized, call 888-293-2339, or e-mail contact@cedarstore.com.