June Blooms

Golden Chain

It’s now June! I’ve watched the metamorphosis of my favorite botanical garden, Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden, throughout the spring season. I feel somewhat melancholy each June as I say goodbye to the wilting and dying, spring blooms in the garden. After all, this is what this particular garden specializes in—Rhododendrons and Azaleas. And let’s not forget the Blue Poppies! There are still a few stragglers about.

There are a few Rhododendrons blooming in the Rutherford Conservatory, including this lovely, yellow species.

Here are images taken throughout the main, outside garden.

Deerberry Plant

Deutzia

Chinese Peony (Paeonia lactiflora)

Below are images of some Rhododendrons and Azaleas still in bloom.

The Victorian Stumpery is full of fern species and woodland flora as shown below.

Umbrella Plants

A new bloomer, a beautiful, golden yellow Korean Lily.

I came across this blooming plant and I do not know what it is. Any thoughts?

The Kousa Dogwood is in glorious bloom, at last!

Cornus kousa

And lastly, as I was making my way back to exit the garden, I spotted this wilted and faded, giant Chinese Magnolia blossom that somehow was still clinging to its branch, a bittersweet memory of glorious, spring blooms gone before.

All photos property of Peggy A Thompson

 

What’s Blooming at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden

This past weekend I attended Blue Poppy Day, held each May, at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden, Federal Way, WA. Needless to say, the garden was exploding with color. In my zealousness, I took over 200 photos. I obviously can’t post them all, but I will try to show as much variation and color as possible. Obviously, the crowned jewels of the garden are the rhododendron species, but there are many companion plants as well, including the prized Blue Poppy. So, have a seat and enjoy!

Please note that all images are copyright property of Peggy A Thompson.

A Bit of Iris Bloom

I look forward to each spring, watching and waiting for the Irises to bloom. It’s peak bloom time now. Here are a few images I snapped recently in my local garden park.

The Beautiful Met Cloisters of NYC

Oh, the treasures you will see! Indeed, the Met Cloisters is a feast for the eyes and soul! Located on the northern tip of Manhattan, overlooking the Hudson River, in Fort Tryon Park, the museum is dedicated to the art, architecture, and gardens of medieval Europe. Some of the patio gardens are dedicated to the cultivation of cooking herbs and medicinal herbs used during that period. Treasures of silver abound, such as the chalices pictured below. Out of respect for the museum, it is the only treasure image I will post. Also exhibited in the museum are wall tapestries that are magnificent beyond belief. As I looked upon them, I could only image how long it took to weave one! Included are the famous Unicorn Tapestries. As one enters the domain you immediately feel yourself step back in time. Sets of stone steps lead up into the exhibit rooms. Feast upon the treasures!

Adventures in New York City Spring 2018

As my friend in New York City would always say to me when I’m visiting: “Welcome to the big town!” Indeed, it is big … and noisy … and expensive … and crowded. But one has to admit that it’s pretty amazing! For those who love architecture, it’s a must-visit city. And that’s primarily what I take pictures of, when I visit. If you really want to save some money on all the museums and galleries, it really helps to have a city resident go along with you. New York City residents are not obliged to pay full entry fees to many places. They pay whatever they want, and as little as they want. Yes, this is for real! Also, check out the visiting times on many of the parks and museums. Many offer free entry on certain days of the week or month. I’ve been to the big city a few times already and have taken tons of photos. Each time I try to visit some part of the city I have not visited before. It’s so big! So this time I spent a day in Lower Manhattan to walk on the Brooklyn Bridge (part of it), visit the Financial section, Washington Square, Battery Park, and visit the 911 Memorial site. Here are a few of those photos.

Washington Square

One World Trade Center as seen from Washington Square

Brooklyn Bridge

The next several images were taken from the Brooklyn Bridge, a great site to get great snapshots of the Lower Manhattan skyline.

Here is the popular, bronze bull statue in the Financial section that everyone wants to have their picture taken with.

One of the many, beautiful churches that one can find wedged in between office buildings.

If you are weary and need to take a rest, Bowling Green, with it’s lovely fountain court, is a great spot to take a load off one’s feet.

911 Memorial Site

911 Memorial Site

 

Down at Battery Park along the waterfront is a magnificent WWII memorial.

Here’s an interesting bit of architecture you won’t want to miss! It’s called The Occulus. Inside is just as spectacular!

Well, so much for this part of my stay in New York City! Stay tuned for more!

All images property of Peggy A Thompson