Chicago!!

Chicago.  Who doesn't love Chicago?  

We just returned from a wonderful visit where we had a packed schedule visiting local nurseries, The Chicago Botanical Gardens and the gardens and conservatory at Lincoln Park.  The weather could not have been better.  It was a jam packed time and a wonderful one.  I love going other places to get inspired at how different things are combined and planted together.   Enjoy!

 I enjoyed walking the gardens and their different settings.  Most all incorporated some sort of water feature - a pond, fountain or waterfall.

 I was impressed at all the combinations.  Very well thought out.

 One can never go wrong with mass plantings of Russian Sage.

 Simple yet perfect.

 The Clematis planted next to the Black Scallop Ajuga (one of my favorite little guys).

 Love the color!!!

 So peaceful.

 The entrance- knocks you out with color, texture and variety!!

This will be the last post for this section.  'Wendy's Wish' Salvia, always a show stopper.  I love how they paired it with so many other striking colors.  I will post the Japanese Garden section next- very tranquil and peaceful setting.

I Just Can't Get Enough of the Hummingbirds!!!!

 There are two things that I can say without a doubt that the hummingbirds go nuts for- the Agastache (or at least this variety) and the 'Amistad' Salvia.

 I FINALLY got some photos of the little guy on the Agastache.  He at one point was buzzing right by my head- it was hilarious.

 There were two fighting over this particular plant and it seems he took this plant and the other got the 'Amistad'.  I wonder how they decide.

 This was not the clearest of photos but I liked it just the same.

 These next three photos I love.  I could not pick the best one for me- I like each for different reasons, so you get to see all three.

 If only the photos were scratch and sniff.  The fragrance of this Agastache is wonderful!!!

Look at his little feet!  Love it.  Ended with this one. 

 Here is the gang on the 4th celebrating the only way they know how…by lounging….

Must be nice.  What a life!!!!!