Midwest Mary

A recent walk through Cantigny Park in Wheaton, Illinois had me in awe. The sun was shining on this warm, fall day while the remains of summer continued to play through the gardens.

Roses bloomed, mums were bright and bold, dahlias the size of dinner plates stood tall, butterflies on their way south fluttered through the flowers, birds chattered, deciduous trees were dropping leaves, pumpkin and mum trees displayed their gifts, and Christmas lights wrapped around trellises.

Let’s stroll together through these delightful gardens. I’m sure they will make you smile as much as they made me.

Japanese Anemone

Roses

Asters

Dahlias

Purple coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea)

Painted Lady butterfly on Lantana

Yellow rumped warbler

Hermit Thrush

Chrysanthemums

Celosia

Mum tree

Pumpkin Tree

Nap Time

©Mary K. Doyle, 2026

If you enjoyed this walk, you’ll enjoy my book, Tranquility Transformation Transcendence. The Enchanting Promises of Public Gardens. The book features 72 poems and 72 photos inspired by public gardens including Cantigny Park.