I have been following the Delaware Botanic Gardens’ growth since reading Henry’s article (www.capegazette.com/node/23902) back in 2012. Thus I leapt at the opportunity to attend the fundraising dinner last night in Dagsboro. Even if I wasn’t a huge fan of flowers, who in their right mind would pass up chilled baby lobster tails during cocktail hour?

I have Chef Ronnie Burkle of Plate Catering to thank for the reason I was already sitting at a table and stuffing my face with appetizers instead of exploring the gardens when the sky suddenly opened up. For those who don’t follow me on Instagram already, watch my video of the storm at www.instagram.com/p/B2U8Si2Bg4m. The table shown had been full of people enjoying the plated salad of heirloom tomato, roasted corn, cucumbers, feta cheese, arugula, fresh herbs and red wine vinaigrette just moments before the rain drenched them. A brave couple tried to use the table cloth as a shield, but eventually fled to the middle of the tent with everyone else.

Luckily the rain passed quickly and I was able to meander through the meadow, which was designed by Piet Oudolf and features 50,000 plants and grasses. In just a few days, anyone is allowed to visit the gardens! Monday, Sept. 16 begins opening week with 10 a.m. guided tours and an 11:30 a.m. release of ladybugs at the welcome center. Read Chris’ article (www.capegazette.com/node/188715) for more information.