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Elawa Farm Foundation

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Just when I thought I was out (of ideas), they (suggest something to) pull me back in!

It’s not The Godfather Part III; this is an offer I can’t refuse.

Scroll down to see more photos and read more about Elawa Farm Foundation.

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Located in Lake Forest, Illinois, Elawa Farm was built in 1917.
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The bumblebee baffles scientists with its physics-defying flight; meanwhile, this busy bee’s got to fly.
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The Garden Market is open this year from May 17 to October 20, offering: wild seafood, pasture-raised meats and eggs, fresh fuits and vegetables, and local artisan goods.
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The Garden Market is a good place to start and work up an appetite before chef-prepared breakfast sandwiches come in hot off the grill in the courtyard.
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Fresh turnips are the pride of the early growing season.
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Artisan glass resonates with the radiance of June.
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Beeswax candles burn long and clean.
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“In grateful recognition of DeeDee Borland,” the garden was restored to the original layout from 1918.
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Aren’t we getting just a wee bit chippy?
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Further along the path from the Main Paddock, we encounter the Discovery Garden on the left.
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Everybody loves some bunny.
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The green corridor opens up to a memorable retrospective.
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The Discovery Garden invites everyone of all ages and abilities to immerse themselves in a deep sensory environment.
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The Hay Barn is home to special events—check the calendar often for seasonal affairs.
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Get ready for chef-prepared Corned Beef Hash: Kilgus Farmstead corned brisket, roasted potatoes, roasted radishes, herbs, and poached Living Light Farms egg.
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The Greenhouse is next to the Potting Shed where gardening classes are taught.
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This little one is rocking the bed head.

“Elawa Farm is a hidden gem next to Middlefork Savanna!”

Sometimes the calendar is wanting for events or the weather to cooperate. I heard from a coworker that there was a hidden gem not far from me. I knew that I hadn’t covered everything, so I figured that this could be worth a look. As the schedule and sky cleared up, Lisa, my mom and I made a break for it.

Elawa Farm is settled in a tony residential setting in Lake Forest, Illinois. Next to Elawa is Middlefork Savanna, a 25-acre Lake County Forest Preserve that is home to rare tallgrass savanna and the middle fork of the north branch of the Chicago River. Between these two treasures are the real gems of gardens, a market, a cozy farm, chef-prepared food, special events, hiking, and birding—all much more than the usual flotsam to fill the calendar.

This was our first visit. I say, “first” now because there will be more. There will be more. Every weekend from May 17 to October 20 this year, Elawa hosts their Garden Market. And in the courtyard, chef-prepared hot breakfasts and refreshing smoothies are made to order. The menu varies from week to week, and the ingredients and recipes are not to be missed. Now that I just said that, I’m going to get Elawa anxiety over what could have been had I been.

“It’s cozy here, and there’s a lot to see and do!”

The cozy gardens and quaint buildings felt like home. The farm was built in 1917, but recently restored to its original layout. Elawa has been filling its own calendar by enhancing its facilities to accommodate farm animals, outdoor yoga, gardening classes, dinners by reservation, and more. The energy was positive and the mood was good.

After we strolled through the farm, we headed over to the savanna. Which came first: the chicken or the egg? Ponder that. Which came first: the savanna and farm or the residential development? What was more important was the preservation and restoration. It was remarkable to drive through a neighborhood, park at the farm, and hike through the savanna. I appreciated the responsible dedication to nurture this harmonious overlap.

“Elawa Farm is a nearby escape that offers sprawling flower-filled gardens!”

We returned from Middlefork to Elawa for a refreshing Smoothie. I asked everyone for their takes. Mom: “I enjoy being at Elawa Farm! It’s cozy here, and there‘s a lot to see and do. Everyone can go for walks, have a nice breakfast outside, and shop at the Garden Market. I’m going to buy the turnips and sourdough brioche buns that look delicious!” Lisa: “Elawa Farm is a nearby escape that offers sprawling flower-filled gardens, chef-made breakfasts, an eclectic market, and easy access to Middlefork Savanna!” And me: “Elawa Farm is a hidden gem next to Middlefork Savanna! This is a great place to start the weekend with a freshly-prepared breakfast sandwich and smoothie; lively walks through the gardens, farm, and adjacent forest preserve; and a stop at their market for farm fruits and vegetables, and local crafts. This is the destination for your next little journey!”

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Middlefork Savanna is a 25-acre Lake County Forest Preserve that is home to a rare tallgrass savanna.
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Middlefork Savanna gets its “Middlefork” name from the middle fork of the north branch of the Chicago River (pictured here), active with playful families of carp.
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And sleek muskrats swimming fluidly you might say.
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Besides tallgrass we discovered an expanse of thriving lily pads before the blooms.
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In case you haven’t heard, we’re in the middle of a rare, emerging double-brood of periodical cicadas overlapping for the first time in 200 years.
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Watch your head—it’s nesting season for red-winged blackbirds.
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Back at Elawa Farm we take a break to enjoy a colorful sendoff.
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Cheers to the chef and his fresh made Smoothies: blackberries, cherries, honey, and yogurt.
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“One more thing:” a sandhill crane out for a stroll at Elawa Farm.

I thought I knew my greater neighborhood like the back of my hand. I wondered if I should wander a little more. Just like the fawn hiding in the tallgrass, I’ve probably missed a few gems right at my feet. “Beautiful things don’t ask for attention.” Which came first: the sandhill crane or the smoothie? Ponder and wander.

To learn more and plan your visit to Elawa Farm Foundation, click Elawa Farm Foundation

To learn more and plan your visit to Middlefork Savanna, click Middlefork Savanna

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39 thoughts on “Elawa Farm Foundation”

  2. What a phenomenal day trip 🙂 and thank you for taking me! The pictures are beautiful, and that smoothie is right up my alley (lol) !!! Fabulous post, thesimlux ❤ ~ You never cease to amaze!

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  8. Bonjour 

    L’été est enfin arrivé, et avec lui vient l’excitation des vacances tant attendues

    Que vous partiez à la plage, à la montagne ou que vous restiez chez vous pour vous détendre

    Je viens souhaiter de bonnes vacances à vos proches

    Bonnes Vacances à toutes et tous !

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  17. Lake Forest, just a few hours north of me! Was not aware of this place, will have to check it out the next time I am up there to visit my brother. Hopefully that scary chicken won’t find me ha.

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