Mother Nature came thorough on the first day of summer and delivered a sunny beautiful day. The basking turtle was out same time, same day as last week to strut (hard to picture) his/her stuff. People were out in full force.
In spite of the hot dry weather things are vibrant, with the exception of the newly planted annuals which were getting some much-needed water.
The Titanic broke her moorings and was close to shore by the waterfowl house, allowing a rare closeup.

Up close and personal.

I got a peek (escorted) at the inside of the scaffolding surrounding the Victoria Jubilee fountain, where the restoration work is taking place. The work should be completed by this Fall with accompanying fanfare… it is of course Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s jubilee and this work is being undertaken to honor her great accomplishment as well.

This brilliant tree is not a common sight around here. Last year this Quercus alnifolia (Golden oak tree) was looking unhappy, but this year it is lovely.

These show stopping Syringa reticulata ‘Ivory Silk’ (‘Ivory Silk’ Japanese tree lilac) catch your attention not for their beautiful blooms, but for their heavy perfume. You can smell it from far away.

Testing out my new camera is a lot of fun. Thanks to a lesson I practice ‘showing motion’.
The subject matter doesn’t exactly hurt either.

I love the combination and variation of colors and textures the gardeners have put together throughout the Gardens.  By mixing evergreens, shrubs and perennials they have a low maintenance recurring display.

Not horticultural therapy, but to some just as satisfying. The Uncommon Grounds Cafe provides a little retail therapy to go along with your spot of tea (or coffee).
Our book of the Gardens is amongst the many items available for sale and is a bargain  filled with photos , a planting map and tons of information about the Gardens. I refer to it continually.

There must have been bird ‘catnip’ by the lower stream because there were loads of birds frolicking by the bank.

As usual a couple of hours in the Gardens restores my soul. This appears to be a side effect of visiting the place, for everyone.
I have the great fortune of ‘having to’ walk around the place. Generally twice. If you ever have an hour to kill and happen to be in the neighborhood on a Wednesday afternoon around 2PM, come join me for a walk. I love company.