Founded in 1980 by Jim Gibbs, owner of Gibbs Nursery, Gibbs Gardens began as a 300-acre private family estate in Ball Ground, Georgia . It was Jim's dream to create a world-class public garden. For more than 40 years, he designed and developed the land, expanding to 376 acres of landscaped gardens adjacent to spring-fed streams, ponds, and lakes. Today there are 24 garden venues, including the Manor House Gardens, Monet Waterlily Gardens, and Japanese Gardens.
The gardens are open March through June, Tuesday-Sunday 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM and July through November, Wednesday-Sunday 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM. Cost of admission is $25 per adult.
When I visited in August, I found the gardens in full bloom, colorful and loaded with butterflies. The place is well-marked with signs, and a map is provided, so you shouldn't get lost. I've heard it's beautiful in the fall as well, so I plan to go back. If you visit north Georgia, be sure to plan a visit.
And now for the IWSG question of the month: Is there anything I regret as a writer? Hmmm. Perhaps there are two things: Not thoroughly researching the publishing industry before I began. I just jumped into it while in a completely sleep-deprived state. Probably not the best move. I think I would have tried to secure a traditional publisher with my first book or formed my own publishing company to have full control of my work. I also think I would have not spent so much money on marketing. You can spend a fortune, and never see it paid back in earnings. What about you? If you're a writer, do you have any regrets?
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