We began our day at Heidi’s place, as we often do, where I started my picture taking right off the rip I totally drive them crazy, but ya know, had I NOT made it through that March heart attack, they’d DEFINITELY appreciate all of the wonderful photo memories I make them get Heck, every now and again I even play with the Snapchat filters too – just for fun I mean, why not? Got to have a little whimsy in your life, right? So, I’m gonna warn ya’ – this post is very picture heavy, because these are some of my favorite girls’ day pics ever:)

I think most all of us had been to the conservatory at one point or another, but this was the first time our girl group visited together. We’ve actually experienced a lot of firsts together – I guess that’s a big part of the excitement of our monthly girls’ days. We’re on a fantastic journey of exploration and adventure

B is for Butterflies

The beautiful butterflies were found in various areas throughout the conservatory, most notably the Pacific Island Water Garden. There were species I’d seen often (think the Monarch) and many others that I’d never laid eyes on before. There’s something so freeing and childlike about a butterfly, no? For me, they hearken back to warm summer days, where I’d catch a quick glimpse of a fluttering butterfly and chase it around with my net, trying diligently to catch it. I most often never did, but…seeing them always brings me back to the whimsical, carefree and joyous days of childhood.

Don’t forget to stop by the metamorphosis lab, too! That’s where you might catch a glimpse of an emerging butterfly and gain more knowledge about their actual lifecycle. The lab is located in the Grand Atrium, in case you want to take a peek.

As we slowly meandered through Franklin Park Conservatory, we paused and watched for a moment while a frolicking butterfly found a respite amongst the lush yellow and white flowers.

Red & Yellow Floral Bounty

A sea of red and yellow flowers marked entry to the first area we came to. Aren’t they pretty? Can any of you grow beautiful flowers like these? I totally have a black thumb…I mean I can’t keep ANY plant alive! I really wish I had the ability to make magic happen in the garden like this, but alas, I just don’t seem to have the necessary botanical skills to do so! Booooo

Tantalizingly Tropical

Each area within the conservatory offered a little bit of a different vibe. Our next stop had a bit of a tropical feel, both in the nature of the bountiful plants and flowers, plus the feeling of warmth radiating all around us. There was so much to see and so many pictures to take.

Standing on the little walkway above, we got a birds-eye view and some amazing snaps of the entire area. Stunning, right?

WITHIN THE WATERFALL

We snapped a few pics in front of this enchanting waterfall! Wouldn’t it be nice if we were actually on some tropical island somewhere enjoying this beautiful site Waterfalls, the tropics, my besties – yep, I’m in! All about that travel nowadays, I am! Time to go see the world. How about ya’ll? Wanderlust anyone?

Not only did we get some great group shots, we managed a few fun individual ones too!

Here Fishy, Fishy

Fishies anyone? I personally always love to visit the fishies, whether they’re Koi fish or Goldfish! And look at all the coins? Wonder how many of those wishes came true?

All the Single Ladies

The girls and I, all dressed in our finest shades of pink (we didn’t coordinate that), checking out various areas of the conservatory!

Double, Double Toil & Trouble

We may be a fabulous foursome, but every now and then a few of us are off on our own doing something or another! Check out my favorite duo shots from the conservatory

Just the Four of Us

I’m sure you’ve noticed that I encourage the gals to stop often throughout the tour and whip out my…selfie stick! Wait? What did you think I was going to say. That selfie stick of mine is one of THE greatest gadgets I’ve ever purchased! Everyone should have one

Bonsai Bonanza

What about the majestic Bonsai? Hmmm? There’s something so interesting about these beauties. I’m not sure I’d have the patience to trim and take care of them in the manner that’s required, but I do appreciate the work that goes into shaping and sculpting them.

Break Time

Heidi and Teeny took a little rest, while Julie waited nearby. Our Christine had recently had back surgery and was still wearing her brace. Or course, she handled it like the trooper she is!

Tiptoeing Through the Tulips

The blooming tulips were absolutely breathtaking. I can only imagine what they look like over in the Netherlands, where there are field after field of colorful tulips. Definitely on my bucket list to see when I finally make my long dreamed of trip to Europe! There’s that wanderlust again Anywho – the tulip backdrop was just perfect for pictures.

The tulips were absolutely breathtaking and served as a superb backdrop for some fun shots! I can only imagine what the tulip fields look like over in the Netherlands – what a fun place to frolic Definitely on my bucket list to see when I finally make my trip to Europe. What can I say – there’s that wanderlust again

Random Blooms

We spotted tons of random blooms during our visit! Everywhere you looked there was something that captured your eye.

All About That Glass

The Chihuly glass artwork spotted overhead during our walkabout was such a marvelous display of color and artistic expression.

Goodbyes

The ladies and I had a wondrous visit to Franklin Park Conservatory. Please make sure you set aside some time this year to visit, whether it’s during Blooms and Butterflies, whether it’s to see the Chihuly Collection or even during one of their special events. There’s so much to see and do that you’ll never be bored!

Old Bag of Nails

After our superb visit to the conservatory, the girls and I headed to Old Bag of Nails and I’m so sad to say it was one of the WORST experiences ever. The service was absolutely sub par, as they had run out of plates and silverware. Worst part was that the restaurant wasn’t even busy. It took forever (I’m talking well over an hour) to get our food. Our soups and salads were brought out AFTER our main courses. A few of us ordered Bloody Mary’s and they were absolutely HORRID – maybe the worst I’ve ever had.

Other than spending time with the girls, there was simply NOTHING redeeming about eating out on this particular day. In my opinion, there was a collective ennui amongst the other customers and throughout the restaurant. Ugh!

Regardless of our negative Old Bag of Nails experience, we had an AMAZING day together, as we most often do. If you haven’t made your way to Franklin Park Conservatory, I highly suggest you visit. They do so many fun things throughout the year that you’re sure to find something of interest for yourself, your gal pals and your family.

Until next time, plan something fun, spend time with your friends and make lots and lots of memories with one another. Remember, life is short and tomorrow simply isn’t promised.

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