Eight years ago, I went to Giverny for the first time to see the gardens Claude Monet made famous in the last decades of his life. Japanese style bridges, a never ending array of gorgeous green plants and the waterlillies from the water garden he made famous are all part of this beautiful landscape. Yesterday, with much anticipation, I ventured for a second trip. All these years, I had kept in my memory the beauty of this place and wondered on the way there if I had blown the image in my mind up so much that I might be sadly disappointed when I arrived. I am here to tell you, that I can now pronounce with much enthusiasm that Monet's garden is my favorite place in the world to visit!I had read years ago, that the first week of June is the best time of year to go to Giverny, because all the flowers are at their height of their bloom. Considering June 1st is my birthday, I took it upon myself to give myself a perfect birthday present and it is safe to say that on this time of year, the views are simply fantastic.
A friend of mine visited last month and the pictures of the flowers were completely different than what I saw. So, I imagine they are constantly rotating what can be seen. I personally saw three different gardeners working their magic hands while toiling in the dirt. I gave a double thumbs up to the first one I saw working the irises of all colors imaginable. The woman behind me offered a bravo along with her merci. She was not exagerating her enthusiasm. From the rhododendrums, irises, roses and a plethora of other varieties, the flowers greet you in such a spectacular way, one can't help to wish that you lived here yourself so that you could enjoy this garden that is like no other.
On my second visit I took along a book and sat on a bench reading. I also spent some time meditating too. Who could resist the peaceful sounds of all the birds twittering above in the grand trees? Other guests may have rushed by, but I took in every sound and every sight for several hours, luxuriating in its magnificence.
As beautiful as everything was the waterlilly garden was most definitely the piece de la resistance. I made certain to enjoy it from several different vantage points, including from a seated and several different standing positions. Oh la la, I cannot get enough! Thankfully, Monsieur Monet lived, worked and breathed this space. I could almost feel his presence painting his works à plein air. And finally, thankfully his son donated the home and property he once lived in to the state, opening its doors to the world. It is quite a site to be seen!
Please visit http://www.giverny.org/gardens/%22%3Ehttp://giverny.org/gardens/ for more information.
Thank you for reading and bonne journée.
