Spring at Bellingrath Gardens

It's been a busy few months at Still Woods Farmhouse. There has been re-inventing of rooms (sharing those later), moving of furniture, and big decision making. I am a multi-tasker, but not a multi-blogger. Can't blog and do re-inventing at the same time. One of my big decisions was to retire at the end of this school year. I have spent 33 years in public education as a teacher, counselor, and psychometrist. I adore my job as a psychometrist, but can't wait for this next phase in my life. Woo-hoo, more blogging and project time for me!

A few weeks ago, Mr Still Woods and I enjoyed a morning trip to Bellingrath Gardens in Theodore, Alabama. I wanted to share some of the beautiful scenery from our trip! The azaleas were in full bloom, but there is so much more to see. I was especially fond of the hydrangeas and paper whites that seemed to be everywhere.

The larger photo below is from their greenhouse. The Easter lilies were putting on a show!

At the center of this sprawling estate is the Bellingrath Home. Here is a little history compliments of Wikipedia, "Bellingrath is the 65-acre public garden and historic home of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath, located on the Fowl River in Theodore, near Mobile, Alabama. Walter Bellingrath was one of the first Coca-Cola bottlers in the Southeast, and with his wealth built the estate garden and home. He and his wife, Bessie, lived in the home which has since been converted into a museum. Since the Gardens opened to the public in 1932, they continue to welcome visitors to enjoy year-round floral pageantry." Mrs. Bellingrath had an eye for antiques and the house is filled with her collections. My husband and I have season passes to the gardens and are able to tour the home once a year. I love seeing it at Christmas. One of my favorite rooms in the house is the kitchen. You can't take photos in the home and I couldn't find a photo online, but just imagine a huge, vintage kitchen. For this vintage loving girl, it's perfect!

My husband and I love to sit and look down the expansive, open green space known as The Great Lawn. It is always bordered with exquisite flowers, greenery and hanging baskets. The fountain in the photo below is near the house and the bridge is in the lake area on the grounds. It is a favorite place for marriage proposals. We saw one recently! Very romantic:)

We always leave Bellingrath full of inspiration and ideas. In fact after this particular visit, we came home and started working in our own garden. Our little Luke was happy to ride around in the cart and lend a paw!

There is so much more to see of Bellingrath. We take a gazillion photos each time we visit. There are lake side gardens, marsh areas, the Chinese gardens, and the river gardens. If you are ever down south, it is a must see excursion!

Spring Blessings from Lynda at Still Woods Farmhouse!

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