New York Botanical Garden – Presidents’ Day

When we planned to spend our day off at the NY botanical garden, we had no idea we were going to have such spectacularly beautiful weather.

I had to keep reminding myself it was February. 
Nothing lifts my spirits like a day spent outdoors in spring-like weather with my favorite people.

I’m so happy I bought myself a membership to the NYBG for Christmas. It’s been on my wish list for 10 years, so I finally just got it for myself!

And just in the nick of time. I was astonished to discover that when we entered the Children’s Garden, Elliot declared himself too old for such things. What?!! How can we be outgrowing the children’s area already? Quick! I must make a list of all the children’s activities I’ve been meaning to get to with them, and DO IT in the next 11 months, before he turns 12 and his childhood is officially over forever!

The children’s area was all abuzz with loads of cool activities. We made our own maracas with paper bags and corn kernels. There were also stations where you could make your own soda with natural flavorings, grind flour out of wheat berries, watch worms turn kitchen waste into compost, and make your own fruit smoothies. We opted for making our own granola. 

We added chamomile, honey, and cinnamon to our family trail mix recipe – or “taril mix” as we’re apparently calling it.

It was just a gorgeous day to be out and about.

Who’s that handsome fella?

My favorite part of the day was seeing the orchids in the beautiful conservatory.

My photos don’t do it justice, but the displays were just breathtaking.

Breathe it in…

Just relax…

Let yourself go on a little mental holiday to tropical Thailand…

Forget all the news, all the politics, all your worries and cares…

And just relax in the beauty of nature, the beauty that returns year after year, century after century…

Feel better now?

If you want to completely top off that lovely feeling, go get yourself some delicious Indian food.

It’s a beautiful world out there. 

#orchidnybg

winter days

Gardening Goodness–flowers!

I spent two very joyful weeks earlier this summer trekking back and forth to garden centers and digging in the dirt.

I can’t wait to see how it all grows and fills out the space.

Sophie approves!

We love our cozy little home.