The Journey Inward

For so long, I've wanted to go to Longwood Gardens.
30 years ago, I picked up my mother-in-law
and headed there in a torrential downpour.
She got nervous 
and we pulled into Wendy's and ate chili instead.
This is actually hysterical
because she was first generation Italian American
and made everything from scratch at home.
Restaurants never lived up to her standards,
but she loved this chili.

Anyway, we never made it.
And I never made it back.

This year, I put it on my list of
25 things to do in 2025,
aiming to get there once a season.
I wanted to make room for Nature and Beauty.
Before their Christmas extravaganza closed out,
I invited my friend to join me for a day trip there.
We both adored it.

A few days later,
I got an email from Longwood,
inviting me to put my recent admission toward membership,
pointing out the benefits.
I joined and the next month,
my sister and I met there 
for our bi-monthly get together.
It was beautiful in a different way.

Wanting to get there again in Spring,
my youngest daughter and I went for Mother's Day
and stayed late for the fountain show.
Once again, I was enthralled by the beauty 
of the paths, flowers, displays, and color.

Longwood Gardens truly is my happy place,
and I'm so glad I made room for it this year.
It inspires and ignites me!

    

Photos:  Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA.  5.10.25 by LA