anticipation

there is a special place in Round Top, Texas called Festival Hill. an outstanding music venue for education, research and performance. but one weekend each year it becomes a gardeners paradise as they host an annual Herbal Forum.

Festival Hill is set amid 200 scenic acres. a jeweled combination of buildings and landscape. beautiful architecture seen in antique houses moved and restored on site. stone grottos spilling over with flowers and history. gardens scattered throughout the grounds shining with herbs of every description and origin. (just imagine over 100 varities of rosemary!). a feast for mind and senses.

the Herbal Forum is two days of talks, workshops and common interests. my first Forum was in 2009 when a small gaggle of gals from my Master Gardener group attended. what fun we had! we leave early on Friday and spend the day shopping and eating in charming Round Top (pie at Royer's can't be missed!). that evening features a potluck picnic (each taking a dish and a bottle of wine to share). and up bright and early for the lecture series that begins on Saturday. and the shopping. a delightful array of plants and books. (excuse me while I drool). we pack lightly to make room for the bounty to be had.

but the best part is two days with my gardening friends. filled with laughter, learning and love.

patience is a virture.