June here has been full of grey skies and lots of rain. To be fair, it has been relatively warm but that’s about it. When I was volunteering at the botanical gardens this week, there was a brief period where the sun (almost) burst out and I dashed about taking photos. The weather might be depressing but the flowers are certainly bright and cheerful this time of year!
The Captive Reader 
Beautiful pics! Is the 4th one down a “red-hot poker?”
Yes, it is! I know it by one of its other common names: “Torch Lily”.
I share your good fortune in having a beautiful Botanical gardens within easy reach, indeed, I have two because the local University maintains one as well. When the weather is so variable it is really good to have somewhere to go that will brighten your day whatever the clouds throw at you.
I too am lucky enough to have two wonderful botanical gardens close at hand, though it has been a sadly long time since I’ve visited the one at the university.
Your photos are beautiful! I admire your volunteer efforts, Claire, and what a glorious reward for your efforts in being amongst all these beauty.
I am glad you like the photos, Penny! I have only been volunteering at the gardens for three months but I am loving it – it is so nice to be there so often and to get to see all of the changes in the garden from week to week.
It just doesn’t seem fair, Claire! You poor folks have been “blessed” with gray, gloomy skies and no summer at all, while over here in Northern California we are burning up — literally! It’s been hot, Hot, HOT! and no end in sight. Hot and very dry, so the danger of forest fires or grass fires is always present. Too bad “they” can’t take both weathers, mix them all up in a bag, and average it out for both of us!
Lovely pictures, thanks.
That doesn’t seem fair at all, Kate! An average of our two climates would suit me very well indeed.
How beautiful those flowers are! We are having our typical June gloom. Still, the flowers are making up for it. Enjoy all those beauties!
Ah yes, the joys of June-uary! Thank goodness we have flowers everywhere to distract from the gloomy skies.