Dreaming of French Gardens!

Recently, Pam of Everyday Living hosted a "gardens galore" link party. Lots of beautiful gardens there! And then Tamara is hosting Paris in July and Paulita always does her Dreaming of France posts. Beverly host Pink Saturday and what could be more pink than this?

All this France and gardens got me thinking to one of my favorites, Giverny. So join me on a little walk through!

I know I've posted many of these several years ago (2009) and I also know I have many new blog friends since then, so I thought I might revisit it!

I confess, when I walk my neighborhood Ditch and see all the waterlilies, Giverny comes to mind.

Here's one of my favorite photos. In a later post I'll show you how I painted it and how Vivian Swift took the same photo and made it far more magical than I ever could!

And the pink lily blossoms simply make me smile!

The water gardens are so beautiful. It's a bit of a challenge not to get loads of people in the pictures -- but I tried!

I'm very fond of poppies and I have to say, these lilac/pink poppies were a favorite.

Check out the details. They make me smile!

Yes, I wouldn't mind a garden of pink poppies!

Or this aspidistra (I think -- any gardeners out there, feel free to correct me!)

And this tree caught my eye as well. Anyone have ideas on what it is?

You might know that alium is another favorite of mine. What a pity it has a short season but these large, purple fluff balls always delight!

Not all the flowers in Giverny are pink. Maybe it was the time of year I visited (June). But these yellow ones certainly had a bright glow!

All this beautiful garden design is nothing without those who care for it, cultivate it, plant it and keep it lovely. They were willing to take a quick break to chat with my friend Jerry. Hats off to them!

If you think Monet's garden holds the only flowers in Giverny, take a look around! As you enter or leave the house, you'll see plenty of charm along the town's streets.

I have a soft spot for hollyhocks, too! I loved seeing so many.

In fact, in a fit of painting desperation I tried to do this one.

And tried and tried with varying results.

I can see why Monet found such inspiration in his gardens! I hope you did, too!'

This post is being linked to Paris in July, Dreaming of France, Gardens Galore, Share Your Cup, Share Your Style and Pink Saturday as links open and become available.  I get loads of inspiration from all these link-share parties. Check them out!