A Slice of Paradise

Imagine driving 45 minutes out of the city into the farmlands of Lindstrom, Mn to find  a slice of paradise. Destination: Panola Valley Gardens.
http://www.panolavalleygardens.com/aboutus.html

The privately family owned gardens of Panola Valley include spacious gardens, an outdoor chapel, gazebo and an outdoor eating covered patio. The owners host weddings, high teas, luncheons and other special events.

This photo shows the place where luncheons are held. We were fortunate to have a sunny day.

Each table was set with different dinnerware and a floral arrangement.

The luncheon was all about the presentation and taste.

 Chicken Berry Salad with Spinach and Raspberry Vinaigrette.

Berry Swirl Cheesecake







Take a stroll through the lush gardens.

And there were a variety of floral arrangements everywhere. I did inquire if they employed gardeners to help them which they do. Looks like a full time job to me. All the plants seemed very healthy looking obviously deer must not be a problem here. 

Besides having a wonderful lunch with good friends, I loved the opportunity to try out the different settings on my new camera with such lush surroundings. Panola Valley Gardens is a photographers' dream place to capture nature's beauty at its finest.  

A garden must combine the poetic

and the mysterious with a feeling of serenity and joy.

Luis Barragan