A walk on Wednesday

For my last post before Christmas, I’m going to take you on part of my walk today through the Botanic Gardens. You’ve been on these walks with me before, of course, but today I started up at the top by the Cable Car and walked down to the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, where many of the roses are already in bloom. I also caught up with the almost grown up ducklings.

Favourite rose spotted today was this one, Eye of the Tiger. I spotted a large bee enjoying the flowers as well. There will no doubt me more from the rose garden in the weeks to come.

I wandered into the Begonia House to look at the lily pond, which is always such a peaceful place to walk or sit. There were some gorgeous waterlilies today – white, purple, yellow and pink.

I also stopped to look at the orchids and the many wonderful hibiscus flowers. I also admired this stunning bleeding-heart vine next to the lily pond and a large pitcher plant.

There are bananas growing too as you can see below. Once ripe, the bananas are left for members of the public, and apparently are very sweet.

Still on fruit, there is also a pineapple. I must check on this in a couple of weeks too! It was then time to stop and sit outdoors at the Picnic Cafe in the gardens for a pot of tea and an early lunch of a hot smoked salmon bagel (which I have to say was extremely delicious).

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, whether it be summer or winter, with sunshine or snow. I hope you get to spend time with loved ones, enjoy good food and take time to enjoy the season. God Jul! Wesołych Świąt! Meri Kirihimete!

You can find Thistles and Kiwis on Facebook, and also on Instagram @thistlesandkiwis.  As for Twitter….am totally inactive these days.  If you want to get in touch, email me on thistlesandkiwis@gmail.com