I had the pleasure of attending the 9th Annual Garden Bloggers Fling this month. Although I suffered with a stomach bug for a good chunk of the trip , I was still able to enjoy some beautiful gardens, visit with some incredible people, and take a ton of photos. I missed one day and had to take it easy the other two, but I’ll still post about some of my favorite gardens.
The first garden we visited was Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary. Eloise Butler was a teacher near the turn of the century and upon her death donated this beautiful garden. Those caring for the garden have done a great job of making it look completely natural and native.
Many of the wildflowers in the prairie garden were similar to what we have in Austin. The big difference was the height. Where our plants struggle with our lack of rain, and exist as small shrubs, in Minneapolis these same flowers towered over us. There were times you couldn’t see more than a few feet in front of you.
After the prairie garden, we had the chance to stroll through the woodland garden. Here they let fallen trees lie in place, providing habitats for wildlife. I also couldn’t help but snap a picture of the geometric structure on this bridge.
willsfamilyacres 
Cool bridge picture. I’m sorry to hear about your stomach bug during the Fling, Laura, but glad you were able to participate.
Thanks! I had to crop it a bit to get a few arms/legs out of the pic 🙂
Very nice photos. Sorry to hear you weren’t feeling well. I loved that garden, so peaceful.
Thanks! Yes, I definitely could have spent a few hours in the garden. The woodland area was especially peaceful.
Great photos! I’m glad you were able to make it for the rest of the fling.
Thanks!
Lovely pictures, Laura. Great opening shot! I’m sorry to hear you were unwell. Hope to see you (feeling better) at the next Fling.
Thanks! I’ll definitely be at the next fling, and I really hope to be at 100%.
Bummer to feel bad, on any trip.
This looks like a great garden. Glad you got to see it.
That garden was amazing – it was a real experience to be so surrounded by everything. I love your photo of the light through the leaves – that’s stunning. Gonna work on another post today – so many to do!
Thanks! I know, I’m so behind on posting. I still haven’t finished my May trip, but figured I should get the Fling one’s done first 🙂
What a bummer to be sick on a trip. 😦 Hopefully, you can join us next year.
I’ll definitely be there. Can’t wait! I’ve got October 15th marked on my calendar 🙂