I had promised myself last autumn that I would return in springtime to Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island, WA. I kept my promise and visited this lovely paradise a few days ago. The Chinese Empress tree that stands in front of the gift shop and Reserve entry had just come into bloom, as seen in the image above. The very warm temperatures we had been experiencing the past week prompted everything to explode into bloom.

As usual, I spent a couple of hours meandering through the forest trails and gardens, each with something special to show. Here’s a sampling of the myriad of blooms I encountered. I must say that I have never seen so many Bluebells (including pink and white hybrids) in my life. Other blooms and plants, unfortunately, I have no idea what they are, but enjoy all the same.

Bluebells

Three-Leaf Clover

Blue Camas

Hybrid Bluebells (Pink and white variety)

Bleeding Hearts

Candelabra Primroses

Jack Frost

Yellow Skunk Cabbage

I also like playing around with texture and reflection. Here are a few images taken around the wooded shoreline of the pond area. Many beautifully mottled Red Alder trees populate this area of the Reserve.

Here are a few images with leaves and a fallen branch casting dramatic reflections upon the water surface.

The lovely bluebells growing among a group of Red Alders create an “oh, so spring” image.

And yet, one is just footsteps away from the darker and intensely quiet areas of the Reserve where the Northwest giants thrive, notably, the Western Cedar.

Now is the time to visit the Reserve to experience spring in full glory if you live in this area; but, anytime of year is a great time to wander among the giants and lush greenery in this little paradise called the Bloedel Reserve.

All images property of Peggy A Thompson