Callaway Gardens

Woke up to 35 degrees this morning!! Being hardy, camping souls most of the 44 people in our group bundled up and carpooled to Callaway Gardens. We were bundled in as many layers of clothing as we could find. Most of us brought quilts for additional warmth.

The original plans were for a 2 1/2 hour open-air tram ride in the morning, an outdoor picnic and a 2 1/2 hour tram ride in the afternoon.

After a short discussion, we agreed to take a 3 hour tram tour and return to the RV park for picnic inside the activities center. That was a wise decision. Most of the morning we had sleet or snow flurries. Never evident on the ground but it was sure cold in our faces as the tram zipped along at 10 mph.

The gardens were beautiful and we have already decided to return here for another look when in transit from or to Florida.

We had a good tour guide and stopped at three buildings -- all heated. The chapel was in a beautiful wooded setting. The tropical gardens were complete with a waterfall. The Butterfly House was my favorite.

Because it was overcast, there were not many butterflies moving. But they were so close we could really examine their beauty. I loved the 'nursery' where the chrysalis were in various stages of hatching.

I have included photos of Native Orange Azalea, orchids and shrimp plant. Outdoors the Dogwood and Azalea (orange, gold, red & pink) were in full bloom. Rhododendrons are ready to pop open soon. Tulips, pansies and daffodils were also beautiful.