Gifts for gardeners

I stopped by Olbrich Botanical Gardens yesterday to drop something off and the parking lot was packed. Inside the building was full of parents and children enjoying the holiday Train Express complete with lots of Legos. It was a wonderful sight to see so much happiness in one place.

Since I was there I thought I should take a peek inside their Growing Gifts Shop. Toys, clothing, books, jewelry, cards, something for almost everyone on your list — especially for gardeners. I came out with a bagful of treats: A quirky little vase that's narrow enough for my windowsill or the toilet tank, special balloons to make cool ice lanterns, Alpaca socks and a hat with ear flaps and lots of tassels, ornaments and a couple of nail brushes. And members get a discount! One more reason to love Olbrich and to become a member. We joined when we began our first garden back way back when.

I saved this photo of an ice lantern last year and had been meaning to go in search of heavy balloons to try to make some. Now that I found them at Olbrich I just need the weather to stay cold enough to quickly turn water into ice. 

Comments

[Peter/Outlaw]

You got a great haul. Love the ice lantern and your post sent me looking for directions online. Looks like a freezer can be used if one doesn't live in one.

[Susie]

What a productive stop you made! I have a similar vase and it's quirky for sure, but versatile. Enjoy. Love the idea of the ice lanterns.

[Erin @ The Impatient Gardener]

I love that ice lantern!

[Linda from Each Little World]

​Erin and everyone — we'll see if I can actually make an ice lantern. If I do it, I will post a photo.

[Roberta Sladky]

Thanks Linda for the promotion of Growing Gifts! Sorry I missed you yesterday.

[Lisa at Greenbow]

You are going to have fun with all your treasures. If someone is going to get them for a gift it will be a treat!

[Loree / danger garden]

I've almost bought that vase a half a dozen times at least. I don't know what keeps holding me back. There's also a blue/green version. I'm not sure which I like better.

Ice lanterns...I've seen several lovely images and "how to" things on line. The thing is...whenever it's cold enough here to make them I am in no mood to celebrate! I hope you get a chance to make yours and take lots of photos.

[Linda from Each Little World]

​Loree — I so thought of you when I saw that vase!​

[Beth @ PlantPostings]

The Growing Gifts Shop is a treasure (of course, the entirety of Olbrich is a treasure)! Whenever I walk in there, I think I'd like to buy just about everything--I have trouble making up my mind. The ice lantern is something special!

[Linda from Each Little World]

Beth — I think the Growing Gifts Shop is one of the best shops at a public garden I've been to and that includes CBG.