A Stroll Through the Garden

Autumn is sneaking into the garden. In the flower beds, Blackeyed Susans have given way to Sedum Autumn Joy while over in the vegetable patch, cucumbers are gone but pumpkins are plump.

A stroll through Elizabeth Gamble Garden on Waverly Street treats the visitor to incredible beauty and a soul-calming peace. Spires of ocean blue delphinium, hint-of-pink dahlias, and lavender asters beckon you down pathways.  

Stop to smell the double delight roses on your way to a shaded bench.

Meander over to the vegetable patch to admire the blazing red peppers and engorged pumpkins.

Tuesday afternoon Paul Althouse was trimming perennials and raking a path. At 85, he spends a dozen hours a week working at the garden. “I just enjoy it,” he shrugs. “Ask me what I’m retired from.” What are you retired from? With a twinkle in his eye and a warm laugh, Althouse responds, “I’m a retired nurseryman!” Of course.

As he returns to his brisk raking, it’s easy to see why Althouse has been a volunteer at the garden for 18 years—he loves what he’s doing.

The Elizabeth Gamble Garden has several special events coming up. This Sunday, September 9, is a Grandparents Day Spaghetti Dinner. A Garden Fresh Luncheon will be held September 16. Then on  September 30 they’re having An Indian Summer Dinner with Lou Pappas. You’ll need to preregister.

Any time you need a burst of beauty in your life, stop by the garden for a free visit. Elizabeth Gamble Garden is located at 1431 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, 94301.


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