Gardens of the World Field Trip

This week we got a chance to visit a charming little botanical garden called Gardens of the World.

Featuring six separate garden areas on four and a half acres, it was the perfect size for a beautiful morning walk.

While gathering everybody and everything we needed to get out the door, I noticed E-R dragging.   When I asked her what was wrong, she told me that she hated going to museums and gardens.   She expressed just how boring they are to her quite well!   I told her that this was my choice and she could make the choice for our next field trip.

As my children have gotten older I have given in when they complain that they would rather stay home, but a few weeks ago one of my children mentioned that we never go anywhere anymore.   At that point I decided we were going to go ahead and go whether they wanted to or not.  

We pulled into the parking lot and hopped out.  Right at the entrance was the neatest chess set.  E-R was out of the car in a flash to check-out if it was there to be used.   So much for just wanting to stay home and not visit boring old gardens.

Battling it out!

Next we strolled through the French Gardens.

The center piece of this garden is a replica of the fountain at  the Palace of Versailles.  

A tiny clue we were headed towards the Japanese Garden. 

If you look closely at the left hand side of the picture just about in the middle you will see a brown blob.  That brown blob is a HUGE spider that was suspended about 10 feet above the path.   

California Mission Courtyard Garden

I was pleasantly surprised to come around the corner and find this diminutive sculpture of Jesus washing Peter's Feet.  

 At the English Rose Garden E-R fell in love with taking pictures of the roses.   She told me that perhaps she wants to become a photographer.   

I think she did a beautiful job.   

Last but not least was the Roman Garden.  I loved it.   I could have sat on the bench and gazed at this chain fountain forever.   I love flowers and colors, but the only flowers in this garden are the lavender plants.   It was so relaxing.  Perhaps,  I need to think about the color palette in my garden.  

Hhmmm...

I think the best part of the day for my kids was the opportunity to be in front of the camera!  "Mom, Mom take my picture!" rang out throughout the entire morning.  

What did I really learn from this field trip?   I learned I need to power through those teenage complaints, moans, and groans that staying home to lounge, watch tv, and play video games would be a better use of time.  I thought our visit might be marred by complaints and poutiness, but instead it was filled with charming excited children.   I will have my kids help pick the places we visit, but museums, gardens, and all other educational places here we come.

Be sure to check out Anna-Marie's field trip blog hop to see where other homeschoolers are field tripping.