SOOC Saturday - Visit to Allerton

I found myself in the most unusual situation this afternoon - no kids, no husband for the rest of the day and into the evening. So I made the most out of my temporary solitude by watching "The Top 100 One-Hit Wonders of the 80's" on VH-1.

Really, it was a step back in time to my high school and college years. So much fun.

But once the three hour show wrapped up (I bet you are curious what song took the #1 spot - I was, that's why I had to watch the entire show!), I drove out to Allerton Park in Monticello, IL.

Without going into too much detail, Allerton Park was once the private residence of Robert Allerton, now a part of the University of Illinois. The 1500 acre property includes extensive gardens, sculpture and art. I had hoped to visit the park "someday", and today was that day.

I'm sharing a couple of SOOC captures tonight - both from the peony garden (I'll have to go back next spring when they are in bloom):




I had a wonderful visit, and was glad to finally have the opportunity (and time) to experience the beautiful gardens.

Since it's SOOC Saturday, I'm linking to Melody at Slurping Life. There's still time today and tomorrow to share your SOOC captures there.

Edited to add:
The #1 One Hit Wonder of the 80s was..... "Come On Eileen" by Dexy's Midnight Runners.
I know you know the lyrics -

Poor old Johnny Ray
Sounded sad upon the radio, he moved a million hearts in mono.
Our mothers cried and sang along and who'd blame them.
Now you're grown, so grown, now I must say more than ever.
Go Toora Loora Toora Loo-Rye-Aye
and we can sing just like our fathers.

Come on Eileen,
I swear (well he means) At this moment you mean everything,
With you in that dress my thoughts I confess verge on dirty
Ah come on Eileen.

These people round here wear beaten down eyes
Sunk in smoke dried faces they're so resigned to what their fate is,
But not us, no not us we are far too young and clever.
Remember Toora Loora Toora Loo-Rye-Aye
Eileen I'll hum this tune forever.

Come on Eileen, I swear, well he means
Ah come on let's take off everything,
That pretty red dress Eileen (Tell him yes)
Ah come on let's, ah come on Eileen, please.

#2 was "Take on Me" by Ah-Ha (a total 80s classic)
#3 was "Oh Mickey" by Toni Basil

So there you go! Have a great day!