My annual lament! It’s August and where has the summer gone? No doubt it’s been a beautiful one (following a great winter), so there’s really nothing to lament. It’s the anticipation of what’s to come. Shorter days and cooler ones (though undoubtedly there are those of you who are looking forward to those). The tunnel I call it.
Time to carpe diem and look at the moment.
The moment is quite lovely!
Rain kept me out of the Gardens on Wednesday, so Friday bright and early I made my way into town. I guess the prospect of a long weekend has emptied the city. Where is everyone?
Work continues on the Victoria Jubilee Fountain restoration (mostly behind the scaffolding and away from prying eyes). This week the restoration became more visible. Trenches have been dug from the fountain to the Waterfowl house where the wires that will provide electricity to the recirculating pump, are being laid.
The project is on schedule and the inauguration of the restored fountain will take place in the fall. Stay tuned for the date to the unveiling.
The Gardens are at their peak! The rain has washed away the dust and perked everything up. The sad part is that it is August already and while we still have months to enjoy these beautiful surroundings, the mornings arrive later and dusk comes earlier. 
Make hay (I mean honey) while the sun shines. There’s no shortage of nectar for this busy little bee.
Unfortunately the bees aren’t the only thing feeding on the Globe thistles. This Fall webworm is busily devouring the leaves under its unsightly web. There can be up to five generations in one season and they can completely defoliate a plant.
Clematis and a Hydrangea make a functional place beautiful.
The Hibiscus border by the Boer War Memorial Fountain is finally perking up from its move in the spring.
The Ligularias make an exotic splash in an otherwise bland (at this time) border.
A perfect Gardenesque vista. Trees are planted so that they can be admired from all orientations, far enough apart not to touch. Berms and sweeping lawns provide a background to highlight the Carpet beds, perennial beds and annuals. Winding paths allow one to view the displays from many angles.
It highlights mans control over nature as it’s intended to.
These stately Nicotiana by the main gates can grow up to 5′ (1.5M) tall.
Along the Gardens path... 