Back four or five generations Mr. + Mrs. A. W. Armour built a fabulous weekend retreat about 30 miles north of Chicago's Loop. The family escaped to their Elawa Farm and its exquisite gardens -- to plant, tend, reap the best of northeastern Illinois indigenous plants and flowers.
Over time the farm was neglected and began to show its age. The family stopped going, and the garden beds became clogged with weeds.
Enter environmental activist and world-class gardener, Deedee Borland of Lake Forest. She's led a revival effort for Elawa, attracted fellow gardeners, educators and citizens concerned, and put this place back into the shape it was 90 years ago.
Nancy and I were guests of Deedee and hubby Bruce two weeks ago. The visit included a personal tour of Elawa. Lucky us. Go check the place out for yourself.
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