Tala-To-Go: Chicago Botanic Garden

Apr 25

If there is one thing I love to do on my day off, it is to fit in as many mom-and-daughter activities as humanly possible. Whether it’s a whole lot of errands that are much more fun with some company, or a trip to somewhere fun and far for me, I’m always grateful for our time together. This past weekend, we started our Mother’s Day celebration early by catching the flowers in their spring bloom at the Chicago Botanic Gardens. Of course, the day always kicks off with a little coffee.

We got to Tala in Libertyville a little after shift change and got to see Mike, Marissa, and Rachel killing it behind the bar, per usual. I literally can’t not get two drinks; A gibraltar with flower power syrup for here, and a hot coconut milk matcha to go. My mom gets her classic 2% half-sweet mocha to go. With Marissa and Rachel pouring pristine tulips, it was the perfect way to kick off our little garden adventure.

It was the perfect day to walk around outside with a drink to warm your hands. While the flowers were bright and blooming, it was a little overcast and chilly. That always calls for a little more time with the indoor, tropical plants. As well, there was a large corpse flower, possibly a week from flowering; Something neither my mom nor I had seen before. The stars of the show were absolutely the tulips in all combinations of vibrant colors. It has been a while since either of us had remembered to come and see the peak of spring at the gardens, and it truly felt like the best timing.

There was no better way to decompress than sitting on the bench overlooking the small lake and the Japanese garden with my mom. It feels like, however much time passes, so much of the garden remains familiar and beautiful, just like her.

My favorite store in the whole world is the Botanic Gardens gift shop. I think I could close my eyes, grab anything, and be stoked about it. While I didn’t get anything this time, I gained some insight on potential gifts and made my mental list of wants and needs. Seriously, everything is so good and so cute.

This was the perfect afternoon, whether you’re with your mom, dad, friends, or a partner, Tala and the Chicago Botanic Gardens feel like the perfect pairing. Whichever cafe you live closest to may be your pick, but I can’t help but mention that Tala Highwood is only 12 minutes away! I know I’m excited to watch the growth and change all spring and summer long, with my coconut matcha in hand.