Darling buds of May

"[...] Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May [...]  Sonnet 18, William Shakespeare

*****

It's true that we've been having some rough winds so far this May.  But until early evening, today was clearly a step in the right direction.  This was excellent timing because yesterday, today and tomorrow, my village is hosting its fifth annual "Journée des plantes" (Plant Days), also known as "Jardins en fête" (Garden Festival), hosted in the gardens and outbuildings of the local château.  As can be seen, there was lots of activity at the main gate.

Predictions of rain didn't dampen the spirits of too many.  I strolled over this morning, enjoying the fact that being officially a "senior," I can get into events such as this at reduced prices.

While many go to buy plants, flowers, garden furniture, and all sorts of other things that are generally being exhibited, I went over most of all to get pictures of the plants and people in the famous castle gardens.  French philosophers of the late 18th century and literary figures of the early 19th used to spend time in endless discussions here on practically every topic in the world as it was then known.   I wonder what they would make of our world today, especially with people ambling all over the aristocratic grass in their pursuit of plants.

The grounds were full of plants and garden designs, with people very seriously choosing what to take home.

Plants were not the only things for sale.

These peonies were absolutely glorious ...

as were these roses.

Some exhibitors use their plants and flowers to feature (and publicize) their landscaping businesses, as shown here ...

And here.

These lovely May flowers provided me with a much-needed lift to the spirits, just as they did for everyone there.