2009 Philadelphia Flower Show

I always look forward to the Philadelphia Flower Show. It brings with it the promise of spring, warm weather and, most importantly, flowers.

This year's theme is Bella Italia and the exhibitors attempted to recreate the feel of of the various regions and cities of Italy.

A lifesize gondola in a Venice canal, formal gardens in Rome, hillside vineyards in Tuscany, lush wooded gardens on northern islands, and the art of Florence were all represented. Even the underwater realm of Atlantis made an appearance.