IN MY LIFE- LONGWOOD GARDENS

It was a picture perfect day to visit Longwood gardens in Southern Chester County today. Sunny, clear day, high in the 70s. No humidity. Refreshing Spring breeze. Spending the morning surrounded by beautiful flowers and trees. Can't ask for more!

I haven't been to Longwood in a few years. Spring maybe the best time to visit, with the spring flowers out, and the dogwood trees in bloom. Everything is fresh and new, like Spring itself.

I was a little surprised there weren't as many dogwoods as I had hoped. Could actually find more in Valley Forge Park.

$20 entrance fee is a reasonable rate to get in. Lunch was a different story at the cafe. $32 for a pair of grilled cheese sandwiches and waters.  The Longwood Gift Shop is spacious and fun, with plants, of course, seeds, and all kinds of souvenirs and flower-related items.

For May 9th, there were still plenty of tulips left. Bright colors everywhere, and Longwood seems to be favoring shades of purple this season. Splashes of spring green everywhere. The white dogwoods that do dot the area stand out among the green.

I especially love the gigantic fountains a tLongwood. There are regular "shows" every 15 minutes. The full 30-minute illuminated light show of fountains occurs at 9:15 pm. between May and September.

Longwood is not only a terrific place to take all kinds of pictures, you can get great ideas for your own garden as well. Of course, my garden isn't going to look nearly as good, but it's fun to get ideas and dream. Aside from the fresh air and exercise as you travel thru the winding paths, Longwood is a super place to relax and relieve stress. It's so peaceful and calm. We saw a lot of seniors, but we also saw schoolkids on field trips with their parents and teachers, enjoying the atmosphere and learning about Horticulture.

Unless you are hiking the trails at Longwood you  can see the grounds in a few hours. It's a cool way to spend a morning on afternoon. But it's not just Spring- I've been to  Longwood in the summer. Different flowers and trees to savor. In Autumn it's a colorful panorama to celebrate. At Christmas, despite the chill, the holiday lights are amazing as snow lays on the trees and hills of the Gardens.

So, whether it's a once-a-year visit or every season, a trip to Longwood Gardens is well-worth it!