Young Lovers at Aldridge Gardens

Lou and I went for an afternoon stroll at Aldridge Gardens in Hoover today. This thirty acre botanical garden is right off busy Lorna Road and near the Galleria mall and other large shopping areas, but you would never know it, once inside the gates. It is a wonderful retreat. A large lake has a wooded path around it, and there are many planting areas with flowers and shrubs that bloom at different times of the year. Today mums and pansies, camellias and a sprinkling of other plants were blooming, but the main attractions were the fall foliage and the serenity of the lake.

It is a romantic place. There are seating areas scattered along the trail around the lake, and we always see young lovers there. Today a man and woman were cuddled up together on a bench at one of the lake's loveliest overlooks. I was irritated at first, because I had planned to take a photo from that spot; but of course, I wouldn't interrupt their privacy.

I did glance at them as we passed. And smiled. The "young lovers" looked to be in their seventies, at least.

Well, Lou and I have been married for thirty four years, and we still feel like young lovers, too. (Sometimes) 

Here are a few of the photos of Aldridge Gardens I took today, dedicated to all young lovers, no matter how old you are.

The bald cypress drops its needles every fall. It's tree roots form knobby knees in the water at its base.

This is a view of the lake from the wooded trail.Look close. Can you see the turtles?These grasses are called Pennisetum alopecaroides 'Cassian'.The grasses along the shore shimmer in the afternoon sun.

the serene waters of the lake at Aldridge Gardensanother beautiful lake view

Don't forget to look down. This tapetry of leaves was at my feet. The green leaves are sassafras.Fallen leaves make a beautiful, if temporary, art work.