​The mansion at Old Westbury Gardens (71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, 516-333-0048) is permanently enshrined in the memory of Long Islanders and visitors alike as the quintessential image of the Gold Coast. The mansion and grounds are run a private foundation, so you can either become a member or pay a fee each time you visit. The grounds are more spread out and lawn-like, so be prepared to walk in order to view certain gardens. Unlike many similar places, picnicking is allowed at Old Westbury Gardens (with certain restrictions). They re-open April 1st.

These pictures were taken last summer when making a trip to see the special outdoor garden train installation, which graced the imaginations of many for a few short months. Who knows what their summertime delights will be for this year?

Has the late winter fatigue got you down, Long Island? Here's the first in a three-part featurette about places to look forward to when the weather gets warm. I'll mostly be letting the pictures speak for themselves. These were taken during a trip late last March with some of our very dear homeschooling friends. It was a pleasant, clear day, and the girls were simply in awe of the surprising bounty of blooms, many of which they were unfamiliar with. Even with all of the blossoms, the leaves of the deciduous trees were just starting to appear on the branches.

Planting Fields Arboretum (1395 Plainting Field Road, Oyster Bay, 516-922-9200) has no shortage of indigenous as well as exotic flowering trees, bushes and plants to make for a magnificent springtime visit. As part of the New York State Park system, you can avoid a vehicle use fee on the peak days/times of the year by purchasing an Empire Pass.

Now that I think of it, it's time for me to get hopping renewing my Empire Pass! How are you getting ready for the Spring?