Magnolias

For some reason I’ve paid more attention to Magnolia trees this year. Huge, old, Magnolia trees, full of creamy white flowers cradled in shiny, dark green leaves with golden underbellies; leaves that are as pretty as the flowers themselves. Even if you’re not close enough to enjoy their fragrance, you can recall it, and it brings a calmness to your soul.

This Magnolia tree lives at Swan Lake and Iris Gardens in Sumter, SC. Covering 120 acres, Swan Lake is the only public park in the United States to feature all eight species of swans. It's an easy walk around the lake, and you'll see not only the beautiful swans but ducks, geese, and other wildlife. I was there when the flowers were in bloom - Magnolias, Hydrangeas, and Iris. 

https://www.sumtersc.gov/community

A beautiful Wood Duck rests atop his house at Swan Lake. 

https://www.sumtersc.gov/community