Here in the Northern Hemisphere, Friday was the official end to Summer 2011. Were you like me and wear black to mourn the occasion? In the spirit of our denial, let’s pretend we live Down Under where spring has arrived in the Southern Hemisphere. We can wish it were here, too.

One of my favorite events of the spring season is our family vacation to Orlando, Florida. When the children were little, we spent most of our days at the hotel pool and at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. As they have gotten older, we still spend time at the hotel pool, but EPCOT is the new favorite. My husband enjoys the international variety of beers, the kids acquire souvenirs and snacks, and I entertain myself by taking snapshots of the Spring Flower & Garden Festival’s creations. Sadly, I cannot provide you a cold one via internet or hand out my credit card for your shopping pleasure. I can, however, share my montage of memories. (Click on any picture for a larger view.)

Each year, Disney creates approximately seventy-five topiaries to display throughout the park. In addition, there are designer presentations by HGTV celebrities, and Flower Power concerts. You may also enjoy the butterfly pavilion, although it generally closes by 7 PM. I simply love the colors, the art of the presentation, and floral scents that fill the park. It’s truly an escape.

If we could convince our loved ones to attend EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival held each fall from the end of September to mid-November, perhaps we spring and summer lovers would learn to appreciate the cooler months of the year, as well. What do you think?