The Garden

"Come into the garden, It's magical trees. Dapple the sun as they sway with each lazy breeze; They'll set your mind at ease.
Pretend you're a child, with nothing to hide, Then we'll join hands and let the universe swing wide; We'll lay our fears aside"
- Carly Simon


After successfully making it through a day where temperatures dropped to the -20's (-30's with the windchill), we rewarded ourselves with a visit to Helsinki Gardenia. Located in the heart of Helsinki University campus, the triangular green house is a tropical paradise...no mittens, snow suits, hats, or scarves required!


Once we entered Gardenia, our winter wear was shed and left on a hook as we imagined we were living in the tropics. Warm, humid air filled the room. Friendly fish and turtles greeting us too. The garden was full of orchids, herbs, ivies, ferns, palms, bamboo and millions of other plants.


The boys enjoyed the faux bug and spider exhibits as well as running on the stone paths. After touring the garden we sat in the small cafe where we shared a few cookies. Then the boys played in the 'children's learning corner.' Bird houses and nests, a fox habitat, pine cone hole, frog pond, and coloring tables were set up for a small hands-on experience.