Take time to smell the roses

Less than an hour away from the shop is a garden tucked away and hidden behind large entrance gates.  Last year I took my mom and daugther to Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens for mom's birthday celebration.  I was astounded by it's beauty and majesty.  From the website:  "Marjorie Merriweather Post bought Hillwood in 1955 and soon decided her home would be a museum that would inspire and educate the public. Her northwest Washington, D.C. estate endowed the country with the most comprehensive collection of Russian imperial art outside of Russia, a distinguished 18th-century French decorative art collection, and twenty-five acres of serene landscaped gardens and natural woodlands for all to enjoy. Opened as a public institution in 1977, today Hillwood's allure stems from the equally fascinating parts that make up the whole. From the captivating life of Marjorie Post to the exquisitely maintained Mansion and Gardens, the experience of Hillwood outshines even the Fabergé Eggs."  

 The floral designer who works on staff creates along with volunteers, fabulous arrangements placed throughout the rooms in the mansion.  Here this one is shown on a grand piano surrounded by photos of former presidents.  See John F. and Jackie to the right of the flowers?

 The rose garden was one of my favorite sections of the garden.  Each one was fragrant and color saturated.

 What would a birthday celebration be without a stop at Georgetown Cupcakes to grab a treat for the road trip home. Yum!

Last weekend we returned to Hillwood for one of their Serene Sunday's.  It was Mother's Day and when asked what I'd like to do for the day, Hillwood came to mind.  The cafe on the grounds served tea which was the perfect break during our touring of the grounds.  The roses were not yet blooming due to this crazy cold spring, but I'm hoping they'll be opened next weekend when I return for a floral design class with my friend Madeline.

If you're looking for a day trip, step back in time and slow down for a leisurely tour of Hillwood. Make sure you stop and smell the roses.