In this series of posts on the Netherlands, I've spoken of some of the wonderful places we've visited, the paintings we saw, the music we heard, the towns we enjoyed. But I still haven't shared with you the best spot in the Netherlands.
I won't be too specific. Let's just say its not too far from Amsterdam, close enough for a short bus ride.
Yet you would think it was in a magical land, where nature abounds. (Click to see photos full size)
It's a place with a splendid garden, a perfect place to rest after hours of walking about.
A quiet spot to have a cup of tea in a Delft mug.
I am speaking of our hosts Tara and David's garden. (Their home was equally lovely, but I'll leave you to visit Tara's blog and scroll down to photos of her office and lovely interior!)
Tara and David were simply wonderful hosts. They gave us good advice on activities, walked us through the bus and tram procedures and took us to the wonderful spots you have seen in all these posts.
Then we'd come home, enjoy a quiet moment in the garden or delicious dinners prepared by David and long, delightful conversations.
A neighbor friend stopped by, reminding me of my Gypsy-boy at home.
And it wasn't at all unusual to see people pass by, biking into or home from town.
One of the things I most enjoyed about their garden was the oft-anticipated appearance of the swan.
I saw it once, when camera wasn't at hand, and while we were out, Tara took some gorgeous photos.
On our last day the swan returned.
Not just returned. Preened!
He (or was it a she? I'm not sure on my swan biology!) swam back and forth in front of the deck.
He'd stop in the foliage close to shore..
And at times simply looked like a grand, floating heart.
Yes, I was smitten. What a gift.
Thank you, Tara and David, for your generous hospitality and for a sanctuary to which to return each day. We'll never forget you.
21 comments:
i would have been all over that swan too.....such a beautiful creature !!!
Beautiful. It's like a fairytale.
You had a truly gorgeous place to stay...and the swan is the crowning touch. It's so regal and magnificent.
What a tranquil spot. Lucky you to have such wonderful hosts. Aren't swans lovely? That foliage makes a perfect setting for it.
How delightful - a beautiful place o stay and friends to enjoy.
OMG, you look so good, I am jealous. Amazing place!
Staying with friends, and in such a place... how LOVELY! Your smiles show the joy.... Wonderful photos, Jeanie. And sweet kitty... :o) Thank you for taking us along some more. ((HUGS))
How wonderful to have such a beautiful setting for the quiet time of your trip. Your hosts sound like the best ever.
Oh this garden does look serene indeed and the swan just pure delight. But best of all was spending time with Tara and David, hosts that I have gotten to enjoy in the past. Jeanie, you look so relaxed in the photo of you. What a perfect place to sip tea and relax.
It looks so serene, and you look gorgeous! Love that shot!
The swan shots are a close second.
Enjoy sweet friend!
Leann
Oh that is awesome that you had such great hosts! That swan is beautiful! It looks so serene and beautiful there. I think my pulse slowed just looking at those photos!!
ooo
and
ahhh
you had me at swan :)
gorgeous photos and what a slice of heaven your friends have there
extra lovely to share it with you
oxo
What marvelous friends, and what memories they helped you make! The gardens are lovely, the swan is completely over-the-top beautiful, and your smile says it all!
I'm so glad to see you and Rick both looking so relaxed - and look at that special fur baby who came to say hello! Sometimes your posts are so wonderful they make me envious, but this post is so wonderful it just made me happy for you!
Just beautiful! I can't imagine anyone keeping a home and garden so pristine... a paradise. I love that swan photo with its reflection. What a wonderful European journey you'd taken, what sights and experience, Jeanie. Thanks for sharing all these precious memories.
Good evening Jeanie,
What a peaceful and beautiful garden.. The swan is magnificent!
Thank you so much for sharing your memories.
I hope Rick is doing better day by day.
fondly,
Penny
What a wonderful place to spend a few days. You are blessed in your friends. (The swan included).
Ha, the Swan wanted to say hi her/himself and wave you bye bye's.
Great you had a wonderful time with your frieds. Even far far away it's always good to know they are there for you.
Thanks for sharing again these pictures and a peace of your life.
Be well my friend.
Hugs Dagmar
Just lovely! ALL of it!
So glad you got to see the swan and enjoy some time in the garden. It was lovely having you here. The garden is not quite so gorgeous at the moment, being in transition, w/ leaves falling everywhere. But I quite like the starkness of it in winter, so I'll take pics when it changes, for you to see the contrast.
P.S. Jeanie, the mugs are from China, even though they resemble Delft. We bought them in London! :)
it's all so beautiful
and dream-like
and very mary poppins:)
i love this place
and that you're sharing
it with us now,
Jennifer
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