As is fairly obvious by the weather and blooming flowers, this post is not being done contemporaneously with our travels, with good reason. We’re offering this as a bit of a prelude to a very exciting event going on in Denver. Since October, the Denver Art Museum has been hosting the largest and most extensive Claude Monet exhibit in decades. And while we’re very excited to share the ins and outs of the exhibit with you, we thought sharing Giverny – Monet’s home and the subject of many of his famous works – would be a fun introduction.
Anyone who has been to Giverny once knows it’s a place worthy of a return trip. And one of us happens to fall into that category, as Margaret can’t seem to get enough of the place. So, consider this a compilation of multiple visits, including a birthday trip for Margaret’s dad that coincided with the most amount of time we’ve used FaceTime…ever (family photos included).
In comparison to French chateaus, Monet selected a fairly modest blush and peach home with green shutters. The house is open to tourists, and it’s absolutely worth a visit, but the real gem is the gardens.
Painstakingly designed and maintained with that perfect French controlled messiness.
We’re well on our way to rebranding into “our” dream blog, lovingly known as “Margaret Takes Pictures of Flowers.”
Can you blame us?!? They make the most lovely subject.
And never take a bad photo. Wish we could say that about ourselves…which brings us to some family photos, starting with number 1, also known as my brother is SO over family photos.
My favorite of the family photos as, in fact, my brother is not an emotionless member of the secret service, but rather a very fun loving and engaging guy. Maybe he just needed a sucker too!
Fully enjoying himself, although feeling a bit cramped, is the birthday guy. Traveling in his trusty navy blazer that has been on every family trip since he was a tot, and carrying a bag of goodies that undoubtedly contains my mom’s favorite gift shop purchase – hand towels. There is something so comforting about traditions, don’t you think?
Tangent over. Back to the all important subject of this heavenly place.
The gardens above are right behind the house. Walk a little farther back
To discover the real money shots.
Which is only a small play on words…considering this area of the property was the inspiration for many of the homeowner’s most priceless works.
The famed water lilies.
Captured from a multitude of different angles.
And, of course, the all important pathways across and around. Bonus points if you can spot the Japanese bridge in this one.
It doesn’t take long to fall in love with this place. Which we presume is how the owner would have wanted it.
“Everyone discusses my art and pretends to understand, as if it were necessary to understand, when it is simply necessary to love.”
~ Claude Monet
Beautiful place! This one is on my travel bucket list for sure.
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It is everything I’m sure you hope it is! Thanks so much for reading!!
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I have heard of some travellers scoff at such ‘tourist attractions’, but I wouldn’t miss this place for the World. One of my favorite corners of France. Thanks for bringing back so many happy memories. Mel
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Couldn’t agree more. As with anything travel-related, it’s all about what you make of it and what meaning it brings to you. And this place carries very great meaning!
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It sure does and did for me. I did six years of French at school (a long LONG time ago) and going to France was like a dream come true.
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That is a funny picture of your brother, just staring off into space, lol!
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It certainly gave us a laugh when we were going through pictures!
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For sure, nice day together to remember
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Ah, it’s so beautiful! And so .. Monet 🙂
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It was very easy to see the inspiration! Thanks for reading!
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Its so beautiful..
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It is definitely a happy place!! Thanks for reading.
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Most welcome!
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Thank you for the wonderful trip around Monet’s house and gardens. I hope you enjoy the exhibition.
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It is sure to be amazing! We are fortunate that Denver is the host of so many great pieces! Thanks for reading!
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Pleasure
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Wonderful place with awesome pictures ! 😊
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Thank you! It’s a beautiful area!
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Your lovely pictures brought me joy on this gloomy day in the Washington DC area. Thank you.
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Thanks so much for reading! It is certainly that time of year in most places right now!
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It is indeed beautiful.
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Thanks a ton for reading! Have a good day!
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Cool and quaint place to visit.
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It really is! So unique! Thanks for reading!
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Oh wow!! Thank you so so much!!!!
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I love Giverny–I’m so glad those gardens were preserved. I’d love to go back (and possibly move in–maybe no one will notice…)
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Hahaha! I’m sure that there is a little nook somewhere you can hide out! Not a bad idea…
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Hmm…time to start planning 😉
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Hi! I have nominated you for Sunshine Blogger Award;
http://lifeafter50forwomen.com/2019/12/14/sunshine-blogger-award-15/
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That is so kind and wonderful to hear!! Thank you so much!!!! And congratulations to you!! Very well-deserved!
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Great post with mindblowing photographs. Thanks for sharing. 🙏🌹
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It is such a beautiful place! Thanks so much for reading!!
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I love the photo of your brother! Lol and of course the Monet inspirations.
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Haha! They are about as equally thought-provoking! Thanks for reading!
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A lovely place! Good times! 🙂
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Absolutely!! Thanks so much for reading!
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Thanks for the reminder about the Monet exhibit in Denver. It is on my wish list, as is Giverny. 😊
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Both are definitely worth the trip…although one is more convenient than the other! Thanks for reading!!
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wow wonderful trip, never been there and you can see how such an inspiring home setting lead to his masterpieces … simply to be enjoyed as are his gardens 🙂
Nice to meet you!
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Thanks so much for reading! It is wonderful to get to see the place that was his centerpiece for so many works! Have a great day!
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enjoy your seasonal celebrations!
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You as well!!
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Stunning photos and commentary. You are cultured people for sure. Really enjoyed reading this. Thanks for posting.
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Thank you very much for the kind words! We are glad you enjoyed! Thank you for reading.
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