What a Blooming Day!

Friday, August 25

I am sitting in this beautiful hotel, hearing the lovely Netherlands Carillon ringing just across the street.  The air is cool; the day has been sunny—a perfect day for the Butchart Gardens.

After a lovely drive around the island, seeing beautiful homes and parks on the sea, we drove over to the gardens.  What a magnificent place!  I didn't even take many pictures.  Where would I begin?  The gardens are overwhelming in a wonderful way.  Roses upon roses upon roses upon every other flower you can imagine!  We realized that Victoria is in "High Spring!"  There were Hydrangeas everywhere, in many colors.  Begonias and Fuscia and Zinnias and Lilies and Lobelia—even Salvia and the Everlasting Plant in my own garden.  The only thing missing were the spring bulbs.  It was a beautiful sight, and we enjoyed it immensely.

The day could hardly have been improved.

We are preparing to get up in the morning and ride the ferry to Seattle, where we will spend a few days with Charlie and Robin.  We're really looking forward to that visit.  I may not report every day, but will be back soon!

Meanwhile, we have LOVED our time in the wonderful city of Victoria!