Mature recklessness: Amerika, Round 3, part 3

As the grand day approaches, we have been treated to the life of kings here at Shelburne Farms. The place is absolutely amazing, and I can't think of anything quite like it in the world. A stunning 1,400 acres property full of the grandest collection of barns in the world. Some of them are truly unique, like the Breeding Barn, once used by M's ancestors to breed what was supposed to be a unique cross between town and country horse. Unfortunately this project was somewhat interrupted by the invention of the Ford T.

The other buildings in the estate are just as stunning, most of them now used to fulfil the conservation purpose of the social enterprise that runs the place, which was created by M's father in the 1970s, when the power of flowers had still not been put in doubt.

The Inn, the oldest building on the estate, is where M was taken home straight from the hospital where she was born. The family still lived there, until the building was turned into a hosting facility to suppor the social enterprise.

But it's not only the ancient barns that are providings us with plenty of entertainment - that, and the impending wedding of course. The property is awash with old items that could easily fit into a museum. This 1948 Chevy, for example, offered us lots of photo opportunities, including the old favourite Lady-V-over-bonnet snap:

But more than the buildings, including the one where we are staying, a beautiful beach house overlooking Lake Champlain, this whole event is about the people who are playing a role in it. First of all, of course, P&M, who have been the most amazing hosts, worrying more about our well-being than about their impending wedding:

Then, of course, the ladies in all their glory, here in full attire for the gala dinner at the Inn, which took place on Wedensday:

Then, M's mum and dad, who are two wonderful individuals whom we have all fallen in love:

And then there are all those other people who are living on the farm or in other places around the world, who have come here for this momentous occasion.