We are on a peaceful excursion today, touring public and private gardens. One might say we are on a bee’s flight path fluttering from flower to flower, on a mission of sorts, that of admiring the work of other people’s green thumbs. This suits me perfectly, as I am more of an armchair gardener, myself.
We start our tour at one of South Glengarry’s gems, Lou Lou Lavender. Very few plants capture the senses so poignantly as lavender. With their vibrant hues and soothing fragrances, it is little wonder that lavender fields have become a source of inspiration for meditation, exercise, and artistic endeavours. We stroll through rows of different varieties of white and purple blooms and stop to chat with the amiable owners, Vic and Mary Lou. The field is abuzz with activity, a dreamscape for the photographers amongst us, and an opportunity for others to pick odorous bouquets to take home. An on-site boutique offers lavender-themed goods such as skin products, works of art, and jewellery.
In the quaint village of South Lancaster, we visit the refined floral sanctuary of a talented and industrious landscape gardener. The private property is a welcoming oasis of flowers and tasteful accents where birds, bees, and butterflies co-exist joyfully. Upon greeting us, our host advises us, almost apologetically, that had we been here earlier in the season, we would have observed the blooms of fifty-six varieties of peonies. Despite this, there is no shortage of vibrant flowers to delight the eye. It is obvious that years of dedicated work have gone into creating this botanical splendor, and I admire it as deeply as I would an art masterpiece.
In a shaded corner of the garden, we are treated to pitchers of cold iced tea and home-blended fruit juice with a plate of dessert squares. Such unexpected hospitality! As we soak in the serenity of our surroundings, Cedar Waxwings, American Robins, and White-Breasted Nuthatches make welcome appearances. We linger a little longer to admire the thoughtful details that enhance the garden’s beauty – a living tapestry woven with tranquil water features, inviting seating areas, and elegant, yet understated ornaments.
The last garden sits in a unique setting, a peninsula surrounded by marsh and river, a haven for wildlife. We are hungry and decide to have lunch in the shade of a tree before exploring the property. Amidst snippets of conversation, we settle into nature’s rhythm: Purple Martins darting back and forth from their high-rise condo, Ospreys tracing silent paths overhead, and Honeybees weaving among the flowers in a soft, golden hum.
Well-fed and content, we set out to walk the grounds. Our garden guide pauses beneath her favorite flowering tree: the catalpa, which is also known as cigar tree or Indian bean tree, the names inspired by its long slender seed pods. The tree’s blossoms grow in clusters, each one shaped like a delicate white trumpet. Across the marsh I spy a Black- Crowned Night Heron fishing, and I am momentarily distracted from the tour. The marsh creek is bordered by lush foliage, enticing splashes of colour, and whimsical touches such as blue glass bottles that shimmer in the sunlight like sapphires scattered among the greenery. I quietly stroll the perimeter of the peninsula, hoping to catch a glimpse of its hidden wildlife before visiting the larger garden plots.
Closer to the house, I see some flowers I recognize such as daisies, orange lilies, and roses. My iPhone identifies others as Japanese Spiraea, Feverfew, and Blanket flowers. Everyone is scattered around the property admiring different plants and enjoying the serene setting. When we regather on the patio, we are offered ethnic treats by our generous hostess. We are feeling very blessed.
Like bees moving instinctively toward blossoms, we find ourselves naturally slowing down as we take in the beauty around us. Our tri-garden journey was far more than a simple walk – it was a chance to step away from the pace of everyday life and reconnect with the natural world in a more mindful way. Each garden invited us to notice small details and to truly see what is in front of us. It is a reminder that life’s sweetest experiences are often discovered when we slow down, pay close attention, and are fully present in the moment.
For more information about the Cornwall Outdoor Club de Plein Air, visit www.cornwalloutdoorclub.ca or follow us on Facebook.
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