Get Lost!: In a Greenhouse

Wacky Wednesday is once again upon us and I'm celebrating the less-than-warm temperatures of this teaser summer we are having, by inaugurating a new theme for Wednesdays during the month of June. Now, Wednesday's headlines will be "Get Lost!", a series on inexpensive and entertaining destinations for inspiration. What better way to relax, unwind, and recharge those creative juices than to save a little money, support the local economy, and explore some of the hidden wonders of your community!

First stop: the bright and beautiful, independent greenhouse! (Hint: This trip is especially fun for apartment dwellers or black-thumbs who don't have the space or the talent to keep a garden of their own!) Browse to your hearts content among the aisles and aisles of blossoms and blooms in any local, independent greenhouse. The Big Box Stores all have their corporate versions, but those greenhouses really pale in comparison to the variety and the stunning quality of plants at independent greenhouses.

"Where flowers bloom, so does hope." - Lady Bird Johnson

Color: Like a box of 64 Crayola crayons, almost every shade of every color of the proverbial rainbow are represented by the lush foliage and bountiful blooms of the plants and flowers found in any greenhouse. These colors and clashes of colors have forever been inspiration for artists, designers, poets, and writers. Monet had his water lilies. Shakespeare's rose still smells just as sweet. Channel some of this timeless creative mojo and get inspired by the colorful fragrances and fragrant colors you experience!

"The Earth laughs in flowers." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

The only money you'll have to budget for this little creative excursion is the cost of travel: either a few cents for gas or a few hundred calories if you bike or walk to your local greenhouse. If you are ever interested in purchasing any of the inspiring botanicals you come across, be sure to go native! Look for plants that are native to Wisconsin. Using locally grown, native plants is not only an educational experience, it also benefits the environment and saves you money with no need for pesticides or harsh fertilizers! Check out the DNR website for everything you need to go native!

Check back next Wednesday for another reason to Get Lost!