Bayou Bend – I like it.  I love it.  If I lived in Houston, Texas, I would visit Bayou Bend regularly.

Bayou Bend is the MFAH house museum for American decorative arts and paintings. Displayed in the former home of Houston civic leader and philanthropist Ima Hogg (1882–1975), the collection is one of the finest showcases of American furnishings, silver, ceramics, and paintings in the world. The house is situated on 14 acres of organically maintained gardens in Houston’s historic River Oaks neighborhood.

(From the MFAH website: http://www.mfah.org/visit/bayou-bend-collection-and-gardens/)

I had read about Bayou Bend in magazines, and finally had a chance to visit about three years ago.  I could not believe what I saw.  I tell you the truth. When I first saw the furnishings, I thought I might cry happy tears.  I don’t know about you. but it is not everyday that I get to see REAL antiques – and to think that they are in Texas.  Each room is decorated according to a specific period of American history (1620-1870).  It is beyond wonderful.

FYI:  Ima Hogg was the daughter of the first native born governor of Texas – Jim Hogg.  She did not have a sister named Ura.  Her brothers Will and Mike developed the River Oaks neighborhood and chose the best and largest lot – 14.5 acres – for their home.  John F. Staub was the architect, and the home was built between 1927 and 1928.

During the River Oaks Garden Club’s annual Azalea Trail Home and Garden Tour only three or four rooms were open for viewing.  We have to go back if we want to see more and take the tour again.  On the tour, they tell you all the good information.  Now, I couldn’t take pictures inside the home, but trust me.  It is beyond….

When we visited Bayou Bend for the first time about three years ago, the guide said, “You must come back when the azaleas are in bloom.  It is breathtaking.”  Going to Houston for the Azalea Trail has been on my “to do” list ever since.  I loved the gardens during the winter, and was so thankful we got to see them in the spring.

The gardens were ablaze with georgeous azaleas.

Statues are the focal point for each garden.

This bridge railing along the trail caught my eye.

Camellias were also blooming.  So pretty.

Sweet Mother of Pearl.  It is wonderful to be in this lovely garden.  I can’t help but think of God’s blessings when I experience his handiwork.

Looking at these pictures, it is hard to believe that I really got to walk in these gardens, and it was only four hours away.

Blessings to you and yours,

There is so much more I want to share with you. (Hope I don’t bore you with my travels.)  I have been in the homes of the rich- THE RICH RICH.  I love living vicariously through others.