A huge version of Big Ben was the focal point as we entered the 2013 Philadelphia Flower Show yesterday. Theme: “Great Britain.”

The gigantic clock face, as the hands reached the hour, disappeared and delighted spectators as it was replaced by a showcase of Britain’s most popular musicians–beginning with the Beatles singing  ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE.

Indeed, cameras continually clicked in an effort to forever capture one beautiful display after another. Gorgeous spring gardens, plants, and flower arrangements surrounded us with a palette of colors… especially welcome in this part of the country on a sunny, but very cold, March day.

I’ve written about the Philadelphia Flower Show before. It’s written about in 1000 Places to See Before You Die, which makes it an especially desirable outing for any age.  That said, displays are relocated this year in such a way as to make the floor space much easier for older people to navigate.

For example, we used to endure long crowded lines in order to see the ever-popular display of petite flower arrangements and petite settings. It was difficult for a mobile person to get a good, unrushed view of these little treasures, not to mention someone in a wheel chair. The displays are now in different–although nearby–spaces. There were no lines when I was there–only happy viewers.

I see parents pushing children in strollers, and wonder why more adult children can’t/don’t make that same effort for their aging parents and grandparents. Then I see the gentleman pictured below (in his mid-80’s he said). I told him of my observation. He responded: “If you wonder why I bring my wife in a wheel chair…Because I love her.”

LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED

Click this link for excellent photos of the 2013 Philadelphia Flower Show, which runs through March 10th.