GARDEN WALK 2021
The first day I went to see Phil’s trees. He lives very close to me, on the North side of the Zoo ( I am on the South side). As always his trees are beautifully presented and polished to perfection. Every time I see his trees there is always something different and unique he is presenting. This year it was just the total package. I loved learning about them from the knowledge he freely gave as he guided me through each of his trees..
Then Sunday I took the trek out to see 2 gardens in our Garden Walk. I say it was a trek as Craig’s was in Carol Stream and Larry’s was in Wayne. As I said, I live right up against the South side of the Brookfield Zoo, but it was so worth the trip. These two gardens were as different as night and day but with one main thing in common, beautiful bonsai with both hosts eager to show them off.
Craig’s garden was peaceful and serene. He is a big Koi aficionado and his trees are intermingled with his Koi ponds and make for such a delightful stroll. His trees are beautiful and you can see just how happy they are. I was totally in my happy place.
Next, it was even further out to Wayne to visit Larry’s garden. Garden? I guess it really is but it is more like a beautiful bonsai exhibition. The trees were magnificent, each presented on its individual pedestal and groomed to perfection. I guess that comes with over 40 years of experience with the art. The setting was absolutely perfect with accompanying ambiance.
I enjoyed these gardens immensely and learned a lot. I am looking forward to the gardens that will be on next year’s Garden Walk.
Submitted by Charlotte Field
