Birdsong Pleasure Garden - Visitors' Comments

Holly Cubbage (Tuesday, August 16 22 10:31 am EDT)

Thank you for a lovely tour! We had such a good time, and we will be back every season to experience the garden in all her flavors.

Holly Cubbage (Tuesday, August 16 22 10:23 am EDT)

We had such a wonderful time! Thank you so much for letting us into your little corner of the world 💜

Jenny Cubbage (Monday, August 15 22 02:54 pm EDT)

Lesley Mack thank you for a wonderful afternoon. That was the first time I heard Ronin say “wow”

Pam Shoemaker-Wightman (Sunday, August 07 22 03:21 pm EDT)

Pam Shoemaker- Wightman recommends Birdsong Pleasure Garden.
Absolutely beautiful! Great tour. I can’t wait to go back for another season!

Paula Warnalis (Thursday, August 04 22 05:09 pm EDT)

Lesley, thank you so much for the awesome tour of your property. I loved every minute. You are so kind and knowledgeable. I am truly inspired.

Janet Myers (Thursday, August 04 22 05:08 pm EDT)

Lesley,
Thank you for sharing your joy and knowledge with all things gardens! We thoroughly enjoyed your tour and beautiful paradise! We will certainly return again soon!

Buck Reed (Saturday, July 30 22 03:01 pm EDT)

What an enjoyable afternoon! Beautiful gardens to visit.

Karen (Wednesday, July 27 22 02:31 pm EDT)

Hi Lesley,
Thank you for the photos!

We had a lovely dinner with the eggplants and tomatoes you guys gave us! We pan fried them together with Italian seasoning, salt, and some red pepper flakes, and they were absolutely delicious!

Thank you for what you guys do, and the wonderful message being sent to everyone.

Zoe, Karen, Eva and Jelly

Dan & Eve Packel (Wednesday, July 27 22 02:30 pm EDT)

Thanks for a wonderful tour and an unforgettable experience in your beautiful garden. We were both so impressed by the creativity and effort you and Tom have poured into your property.

Brian Zientak (Friday, July 15 22 10:32 am EDT)

Review left by Brian Zientak
starstarstarstarstar

It's decent. Probably more so if you're super into gardening, which I am not. The grounds are absolutely beautiful and they have a wonderful view of the mountains behind the property as well. The lady running the VIP tour was super nice and cut us a deal without asking when we had to cut our visit short. If this is up your alley, pay them a visit. But it's by appointment only, so make sure you plan ahead.

Amy Kinsey (Monday, July 11 22 05:41 pm EDT)

Fri, Jul 8, 2022
Lesley,
Thank you so much for the time we spent in you incredible gardens today.

Happy Gardening!
Amy Kinsey

Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardener Association (Tuesday, July 05 22 05:37 pm EDT)

Thank you so much for agreeing to be a "Host Garden" in the 2022 Gardening in the Valley Tour!
We appreciate all you did towards making the event a success.

Julia Verba (Tuesday, July 05 22 05:26 pm EDT)

Lesley,
We sure enjoyed our tour. I never tire of visiting your beautiful place. You and Tom have created a little paradise there. So much work - but is is obviously a labor of love for you two. Thank you for sharing it with the world. All the best, Julia

Kevin Yochim (Tuesday, July 05 22 05:23 pm EDT)

Review left by Kevin Yochim
5 Stars
We did our wedding "First Look" at the garden and it was spectacular!

Leslie was very kind and accommodating.

Worth a visit!

Bill Lottman (Thursday, June 30 22 10:03 am EDT)

Bill Lottman recommends Birdsong Pleasure Garden.
June 17, 2022
Take the VIP tour ! A wonderful, informative and peaceful time. This couple acre spot has a natural yet cultivated vibe. We are moving into a home in the country and this type landscape is very much what we plan to do, albeit on a smaller scale. Lesley will not disappoint with her knowledge and experience.

Carolyn Saunders (Friday, June 17 22 09:31 am EDT)

Leslie and Tom, both know soooo much about their plants. We enjoyed every minute of our visit.

Teresa Campbell (Tuesday, June 14 22 01:46 pm EDT)

Hello! We had such a wonderful time. Your gardens are just beautiful!!
We will definitely be back again sometime.

Robin Church (Tuesday, June 14 22 01:45 pm EDT)

Thank you for a lovely visit yesterday. Your gardens are an amazing work of art.

Stephen Sanders (Monday, May 16 22 12:40 pm EDT)

Thanks so much for the incredible tour. I hope we can remember just a fraction of what we learned.

Cathi Morrison (Monday, May 16 22 12:36 pm EDT)

5-Star Review on Google
Very Nice!

Rebecca Ridgeway (Monday, May 16 22 12:34 pm EDT)

5-Star
Tour of the garden was informative and fascinating! Tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommend!

Ruth & Richard (Monday, April 18 22 10:48 am EDT)

Dear Lesley and Tom,
This is the most beautiful 3 acres in Virginia! Lesley and Tom are charming and exceedingly patient! The gardens are the glorious product of 30 yrs of loving, artist, savvy work. They are available to visit, for picnics, engagements, so much more. All fees are donated to Virginia Land Conservancy.

Beth, Mary, Patrice, Peg - Sisters (Saturday, February 19 22 04:35 pm EST)

Lesley,
We so enjoyed your beautiful gardens and meeting you and Tom.
We are taking home a delightful memory. Thank you!

Judy Bradley, New Market, VA. (Saturday, February 19 22 04:29 pm EST)

I was looking for things to do with my 94 year old dad in Luray and came across your gardens. So glad that we called you, my Dad really enjoyed talking to you both and your gardens are beautiful!!
(Sorry it took me so long to write.)

Martha Randolph-Macon Academy (Thursday, January 20 22 12:36 pm EST)

Thanks so much Lesley.
You and Tom made the field trip so much fun for the kids.

Also, I got to remember how awesome gardening is and felt inspired not only to take care of my indoor plants but my outdoor plants.
Gardening is such a lovely practice. My hope is that maybe, not now but somewhere along the future, these kids can remember the trip and the place and head back to your garden with their families. They can experience it at different seasons and learn to cultivate.

Perhaps, that will put into perspective that they are part of a bigger environment. They are learning so many things now but one day it will all click.

A few people were already connecting the dots as to how the subjects they are learning in school work together. All this to say that they are learning how things work :)

Joan Biddle (Tuesday, November 23 21 10:59 am EST)

Dear Lesley,
We loved our tour of your impressive garden. The collections and placement of material throughout the three acres was gorgeous. Clearly it has been and continues to be a labor of love and benefits so many creatures, critters and people too.

Thanks for the photos. They are a reminder of the beauty of your property:))

John Hunter (Tuesday, November 23 21 10:57 am EST)

You may recall, that our friend, David arranged a lovely day at your garden for Ben and our son, Michael, and grandson, Cole. You very kindly gave me a ginkgo tree. I am pleased to report that the “tree” is thriving and it now 18 inches. Should you and your husband ever be planning a trip to Browntown way, we should be delighted if you would visit us. We spend a great deal of time working in the gardens but they cannot compete with your beautiful gardens!

John

Natalie M. (Saturday, November 20 21 03:18 pm EST)

5.0 star rating 11/8/2020
This an absolute must-see if you're in the area! Not only is the garden absolutely amazing, but the owners are so very kind and full of knowledge about all plants and flowers! I was shocked to learn that they owners do all of the work plus the tours.

Long story short, this garden is gorgeous and I highly recommend checking it out. Also, reserve a spot for a picnic, we booked in advance and enjoyed lunch with a gorgeous view!

Avron S. (Saturday, November 20 21 03:16 pm EST)

5.0 star rating 4/17/2021
What a fantastic garden tour done by people who clearly love gardening and flowers. A beautiful 3+ acres to stroll through.

Donna (Monday, October 25 21 11:33 am EDT)

Steve and I just wanted to say it was a pleasure meeting you both and really enjoyed our time spent with you. I wish we could have stayed longer. We're heading home tomorrow but will keep in touch. Please keep doing what you are doing because you do it well!

Bill and Lisa (Monday, October 25 21 11:30 am EDT)

Lesley,
Great meeting both of you. I grew up farming and gardening and I have a great appreciation for the beautiful work you two have created over time. Thank you for the wonderful hospitality. See you in the spring.

Julia (Monday, October 25 21 11:28 am EDT)

Thank you soooo much for the tour, the peppers and all the information! We enjoyed ourselves thoroughly!!! My husband thought YOU were absolutely delightful!

Kelly Dobbins (Wednesday, October 20 21 10:11 am EDT)

5 Stars!!!

Mikaela Heck (Thursday, October 14 21 05:51 pm EDT)

Hi there!
This is Mikaela with Mikaela Heck Photography. I had a session at your garden on Wednesday! I just wanted to send some pics! And tell you thanks again for letting us take pictures at Birdsong!
Thank you!
Mikaela

Anne Hoffman (Thursday, October 14 21 05:48 pm EDT)

Lesley and Tom,
What a pleasure it was to tour your Birdsong Pleasure
Garden ~
What love, dedication and vision is shown at every turn. I might have to make this a seasonal venture to enjoy all your garden has to offer. It is truly "a Designated Virginia Treasure site." Thank you for sharing it with the world. My best to you both ~ Anne

John Thomas (Thursday, October 14 21 05:43 pm EDT)

Hi Lesley, just a note of appreciation to you and Tom for the garden tour yesterday. I was amazed at the work you’ve done there and the beautiful retreat you’ve created. A wonderfully designed garden, with interesting plants and thoughtful plant combinations. Every garden is different, but yours is outstanding. I’d like to come back, and take the tour again.

Thanks for such a thoroughly enjoyable visit.

Vickie Comer (Thursday, October 07 21 10:56 am EDT)

Yesterday we decided to take a break and go enjoy the local scenery since the day was absolutely beautiful. We visited a place I have wanted to go to for over a year and it was so rewarding! Thank you Birdsong Pleasure Garden for letting us tour your beautiful gardens and spending so much time educating us on plants, trees, flowers and horticulture. We learned so much and you have reignited our passion for gardening!! It was truly amazing. Your gardens and you both are truly beautiful. We are so happy and grateful there are folks like you that have so much passion for nature! For anyone who has not visited Birdsong Pleasure Gardens you are missing out!

Lilflower Lucy (Thursday, October 07 21 10:41 am EDT)

Thank you for having us today. We had an amazing time in your beautiful garden ♥️♥️♥️

Darlene Clark (Tuesday, September 28 21 02:25 pm EDT)

Beautiful gardens.

Chris Kulaga (Thursday, September 09 21 11:40 am EDT)

Very beautiful gardens!

Jill Drees (Tuesday, August 10 21 05:54 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley and Tom,
We wish to express our sincere appreciation for your kindness and generosity of spirit in guiding our visit to your lovely home and gardens yesterday.

P.S. You are both so cool!
We wish we had had more teachers like you two!!

Sue Glover (Tuesday, August 10 21 05:52 pm EDT)

Thank you Lesley for sending the pictures of us at Birdsong Gardens! We so loved our time there!

Most Sincerely,
Sue Glover
Centreville Garden Club

Linda Bell (Monday, August 02 21 03:19 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley and Tom,
Thank you for welcoming us to your little piece of heaven last weekend. Your gardens are lovely, educational, and inspiring, a testament to what three decades, a great vision, and a lot of hard work can accomplish. As I look out at all the tasks that await me in my garden, I'm especially overwhelmed by your generosity in opening it for visitors and giving such an interesting and comprehensive tour. We enjoyed it immensley.
Sincerely,
Lesley Bell

Chris and Lesley (Monday, August 02 21 03:15 pm EDT)

Thank you for a great afternoon.

Jacob Williams (Sunday, August 01 21 06:32 pm EDT)

I visited Birdsong Pleasure Garden today with friends while off from work. It was a wonderful getaway that we all appreciated. I enjoyed seeing all the plants and landscaping with the mountains nearby. Tom gave us a tour and did a wonderful job explaining everything. My friends and I all said after leaving that he was exceptionally kind. I would definitely recommend making a stop here.

beyondTabu (Sunday, August 01 21 06:29 pm EDT)

Great place to visit. Really enjoyed the tour and the property!

Elaine and Andy Metlin (Monday, July 26 21 03:59 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley,
Thank you so much for the enchanting tour. It feels like heaven to be in your garden. I only wish I had more time to have seen the cutting garden.
Next time.
Take care,
Elaine and Andy

Gary, Judy, and Garren Janes (Monday, July 26 21 03:29 pm EDT)

Tom & Lesley!

Thank you very much for the extremely interesting tour!

Charlotte, David and Josiah (Monday, July 26 21 03:27 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley,
Lovely views, thank you again for your personal tour. What a transformation to your property from when you first moved in!

Theresa Defluri (Monday, July 26 21 03:24 pm EDT)

Hi Lesley,
Thanks so much for the lovely tour that you provided for Centreville Garden Club.
Your landscape is absolutely stunning and a joy to walk through.
We can tell that both you and your husband are passionate about nature and gardening.
All your hard work shows!
I loved seeing the frogs, butterflies, bees and hearing all the birds who clearly love sharing
Your beautiful land.

Keith and Susan (Wednesday, July 21 21 05:11 pm EDT)

We are Keith and Susan from McLean in Fairfax County, Virginia. We visited and toured on May 30. Thank you so much for the experience that was one of the highlights of our Shenandoah River trip.

Brad Noble (Wednesday, July 21 21 05:09 pm EDT)

Very lovely, pristine place.

Carolyn (Tuesday, June 29 21 11:35 am EDT)

Lesley,
What a pleasure to meet you and Tom yesterday! Your gardens are stunning. You have inspired me so I guess you won't be surprised when I tell you I weeded three raised gardens yesterday afternoon.

Darrell Walters (Tuesday, June 29 21 11:32 am EDT)

Darrell Walters

My wife, friend, and I enjoyed visiting this quaint garden. The homeowners have worked hard for the last 30 years creating this tranquil garden paradise. We enjoyed seeing all the beautiful perennials, shrubs, and trees that they have decorated with. We especially loved the pond at the entrance and enjoyed the swing looking out over the beautiful Massanutten Mountains. After the tour, we enjoyed a picnic lunch while swinging on the swing and looking at the mountain range. We enjoyed a charcuterie board and some delicious sangria. It was a perfect day to tour this beautiful garden. We gave a donation at the end and Lesley told me that all donations go to land conservation in Virginia. How wonderful! If you enjoy nature and love plants, this would be a great place to visit!

Patricia Brady (Monday, June 07 21 01:53 pm EDT)

Tom and Lesley:
I so enjoyed the tour you gave Del and me Friday. Your gardens are truly outstanding and Tom couldn’t have been more gracious, answering every question, accommodating my dog, and sharing such a wealth of information.
While on the golf cart, I mentioned a book about plants that I am enjoying so much. It is Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. It is not about plants so much as looking at plants, and our relationship to them. The author draws upon her Native American heritage as well as her scientific training, all interspersed with moments of her own life. It is so well- written, and If you’re into audible books, she reads it herself, ( on Chirp app) in a beautiful, soothing voice. Given the time thetwo of you have devoted to plants, I think you would enjoy it.
Again, thank you, and I hope I have a chance to visit again some time.
Patricia Brady

Susan Mears (Friday, June 04 21 04:59 pm EDT)

Tom,
Bob, Steven, and I want to thank you for the wonderful time that we had at your gardens yesterday. Your tour was so informative, and we learned so much. I hope we didn’t overstay our welcome, but we were enjoying ourselves immensely. I hope you and your wife are feeling better today. We hope to return to your gardens sometime soon, and we will recommend your gardens as a must-see destination to our friends.
Again, thank you for sharing your beautiful creations with us.
Fondly,
Susan Mears

Lora and Chapter Members of NPDAR (Friday, May 14 21 01:03 pm EDT)

Lesley and Tom,
Thank you so much for hosting the Narrow Passage Chapter, NSDAR, meeting and allowing us to tour Birdsong Pleasure Garden. We appreciate all of your work and contributions to preservation and conservation.

Gwen Berger (Friday, May 07 21 03:46 pm EDT)

Simply can't imagine a more delightful and enjoyable place to make a new friend. Lesley was a wonderful tour guide and thoroughly knowledgeable docent and gardener. Such beautiful gardens! Such variety. So artistic.

Vera Flint (Thursday, April 29 21 03:36 pm EDT)

Dear Tom and Lesley,
Thank you for a wonderful day on Tuesday. It was a real joy to see all the wonderful flowers, trees and fish pond.
The ride on the golf cart was an added bonus.
I hope you will enjoy the kitchen towel. I crochet the top and hope you will think of me whenever you use it.
The whole da was great and enjoyed a great deal.
Sincerely, Vera Flint

Nisi Cubbage (Thursday, April 22 21 05:10 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley & Tom,
Thanks so much for the wonderful tour of your wonderful garden. It was such a pleasurable event for me. I can't say enough wonderful things about it. I am so impressed with all aspects, the beauty, the hard work, the planning, etc.
Best Regards,
Nisi

Violeta Warner (Thursday, April 22 21 04:55 pm EDT)

Hi Lesley,
Thank you for the wonderful tour. I love, love your garden.

It was nice meeting you and Tom. You two have created a little piece of heaven in your 3 acres of land!

Thank you for the picture.
Best Regards,
Violeta and Chris

Ruth Chodrow (Thursday, April 22 21 04:54 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley,
Mom and I had such a good time! I am still in awe of all the work you've have to put in to make your gardens so gorgeous, and you fully deserved all those awards I saw. Mom was very touched by your kindness in providing the golf cart, and thoroughly enjoyed the extended tour. Thanks so much, and we absolutely hope to come back.

Lesley Mack (Wednesday, March 03 21 05:48 pm EST)

Tom & Lesley,
Thank you so much for your hospitality during my visit at Birdsong Pleasure Garden. What a special treat!
JMU owes so much credit to you for your passion and support to help grow the university. I'm looking forward to seeing you again in the spring.
Stay well,
Jacqueline Painter
Beekeeper and owner of
Anchor Ridge Farm
Timberville, Virginia

Missy Hoak (Saturday, January 23 21 06:12 pm EST)

Lesley and Tom -
Thank you for creating such a lovely garden and sharing it with us all! You two are still great teachers...now regarding the environment, ecology and plants. Stay safe and enjoy the quieter, cooler season in peace!
All the best,

Connor Hoak (Saturday, January 23 21 06:10 pm EST)

Mr. and Mrs. Mack,
Thank you so much for giving Leanne and I a tour of your wonderful garden and spending you time with us. I could not have imagined how amazing it would look; your efforts really show in the tidy and well-tended arrangements. We would absolutely love to come back to visit in the future, if you'll have us. Best wishes,

Natalie Martin (Tuesday, November 03 20 03:25 pm EST)

Hi Lesley,

We so enjoyed our visit today, please thank Tom for the tour and the patience with our son who likes to make all the possible mistakes 😂
Thank you both for creating such a gorgeous garden and the fresh produce!
I'll be writing Yelp and Trip Advisor reviews this week. We hope to return later with our parents and/ or friends.

Thanks again!

Natalie, Corinne & Ethan

Andrew Kaplan (Wednesday, October 21 20 05:02 pm EDT)

Wow. What a treat!
Not only is this an amazing personal garden, but you get to share with Tom and Lesley their story over their 25 years at this home. This was a highlight of our trip and we strongly recommend this. Did I mention he donates the entrance fee to a local preservation group? As you are walking around, keep in mind the two of them do this with no tractor or outside help.

Katherine (Saturday, August 22 20 03:14 pm EDT)

Dear Leslie and Tom,
Thank you, thank you, thank you for the beautiful day Saturday August 8 that Rachel and I were able to share with you. Your garden is amazing: a labor of love, a great work of art, and truly a lifetime achievement. Your graciousness and generosity in sharing your space, especially during the pandemic, has given us courage and inspiration.

When I drove past the strip malls outside of Luray proper, I was struck by the enormous contrast: crowds of people frequenting Wal-mart and fast food establishments, and the three of us strolling through the beauty of nature as you have envisioned it. I was greatly saddened by the poverty of our culture, and also inspired by the ability of two people - the two of you - to make such a contribution to the well-being of the entire community.

We leave you with the hope, prayer, and blessing that your generosity will be returned to you many times over.

Sincerely,

Katherine and Rachel

L-P Chamber of Commerce (Thursday, August 20 20 04:55 pm EDT)

From the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce
What a wonderful opportunity for folks to see your hard work at its best! What a beautiful place, your Birdsong Pleasure Garden. You both are an inspiration.

Jessica (Thursday, August 20 20 04:52 pm EDT)

August 3, 2020
Thank you for helping me celebrate my birthday. It was an amazing experience for my family. Jessica and family Patrice, Zane, Justin and Brenden

Mary Beth (Thursday, August 20 20 04:00 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley and Tom, How can we thank you enough for making Wynonah's 20th birthday such a special and beautiful one? The father-daughter outing, to a surprise location, was a real way to brighten her up. We are deeply grateful,

Heather and 2020 MG class (Thursday, August 20 20 03:48 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley, I hope you, Tom and the garden are well. The members of the Northern Shenandoah Valley Ext. Master Gardeners Class of 2020 wish to thank you; we all very much enjoyed experiencing the garden during our pruning lab (which we all attended pre covid). We appreciate the opportunities it gave us and future classes for hands-on learning.

Rochelle Dornatt (Thursday, August 20 20 03:43 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley & Tom, I wanted to thank you for letting the 2020 Master Gardener class invade your garden. I had such a wonderful time seeing everything you've done with your land! You have been an inspiration - I am planning to do several projects at my house based on things you've done. Thank you so much!

Elaine & Stacey (Thursday, August 20 20 03:40 pm EDT)

Tom and Lesley, What a perfect day we had out at Birdsong Pleasure Garden. Thank you for hosting the pruning lab. The comments and feedback from the class members was 100% positive. Your garden is an inspiration for many. Thank you for sharing it with the Master Gardener Class of 2020.

The kids and leaders (Thursday, August 20 20 01:04 pm EDT)

Dear Birdsong Pleasure Garden, Thank you for allowing our 4-H day camp to visit your beautiful flower wonderland! The plants were so interesting we really enjoyed our time. Sincerely, 4-H Day Camp

Carol Davis (Thursday, August 20 20 12:58 pm EDT)

All the elements of a pleasure garden are contained within the garden. Your mature collection of conifers is impressive as well as the beautiful views from the property. I would suggest a visit to get a feel for a model of a pleasure garden.

Chris Schmidt (Thursday, August 20 20 12:54 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley & Tom, This a belated thank you for the wonderful tour you gave to me and my 2 companions last week. I was so impressed with what you have done. It must bring you great pleasure to live there! You have quite a collection of impressive trees, especially the $4 River birches! Thank you for all the time and botanical information you shared with us! Best Wishes, Chris

Dorothy Ramsey (Tuesday, March 31 20 10:14 am EDT)

I’ve been wanting to tell you something. The last ten minutes of my yoga class is a meditation time when the instructor suggests we visit our favorite place in our minds as we do our breathing and relaxation. My favorite place is your garden with its endless beauty, colors, textures, variety, vistas, and little and big surprises to discover from one moment to the next. I’ve been to the Grand Canyon, Sedona and Yosemite but Birdsong Pleasure Garden is my special place.

Linda Reed, Apple Valley Garden Club (Monday, January 13 20 01:33 pm EST)

Lesley & Tom,
I want to thank you for the wonderful Tea and tour yesterday; it was delightful.
The Tea was delicious, the tour was great and you and Tom are so kind and helpful. It was a learning experience and I purchased some of the plants for my garden. As you can tell, I just cannot say enough. We are so lucky to have you and Tom to share your knowledge. I will return to met you again. Linda Reed, Apple Valley Garden Club, Winchester VA

Linda Applegate (Monday, January 13 20 01:25 pm EST)

Hi Leslie,
Look what my daughters decided to make after they saw the wreath I made in your class. (photo not included, here).

Had a great time hope to bring them to see your garden sometime.

Barbara 5 Hills Garden Club (Tuesday, October 08 19 12:19 pm EDT)

Want to thank you for a most enjoyable visit. Everyone had a really fun and informative time. We all learned a lot. I met some of your garden club members at the Inn and enjoyed a short visit with them. I hope to come out for the tea in June.

Lesley Mack (Sunday, September 29 19 05:08 pm EDT)

Hi Leslie, (Lesley)
Both Fred and I so enjoyed meeting you and the wonderful tour you gave of your gardens. So informative and fun. Thanks so much for all the time you spent with us!
Diane and Fred

Robin (Friday, September 20 19 12:36 pm EDT)

Jacob Swartz House Guest Cottage B&B

Lesley your tour was wonderful. You're at the top of my list for recommendations for things to do in the area. Truly inspiring and your passion and love of nature shines in all your gardens!

Marilyn M. (Wednesday, September 11 19 05:02 pm EDT)

Hi Lesley,
Thank you so much for everything—taking the time to talk with us and answering our questions. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and walked away with flower and creative sculpture ideas!

It’s always great to talk with others that have a passion for gardening whether floral or vegetables. And, I’ve already picked out a great low carb/sugar recipe for the green peppers to which I’ll be adding two red ones from my garden, also.

We had a fabulous time exploring the Shenandoah Valley and Birdsong was a major reason.

Thank you, again,
Marilyn

Marjorie A. (Tuesday, September 10 19 01:52 pm EDT)

Birdsong Pleasure Garden is the perfect stop for individuals who are avid gardeners or who enjoy bird watching. This garden is privately owned. An appointment is required to view the garden. The owners, Lesley and Tom, are lovely people who are very knowledgeable about plants and the birds which inhabit their garden. Upon arrival, you will be met by Lesley who will be your tour guide. She takes you through the garden explaining about the plants in residence. The garden has been well planned so there is always something in bloom. There are many birdhouses on the property which draw the birds to the garden. I would recommend this for Garden Club members or small groups. I would not recommend this for small children. There is really nothing to keep them occupied. If visiting, I would say to a lot about 2 hours for the complete tour.
(Owner's note- Just to let you know, both Tom and I were Elementary School teachers. We are able to gear tours for folks of all ages - those quite young to those young at heart - so that everyone finds pleasure in the garden!)

Shui J. (Tuesday, September 10 19 01:48 pm EDT)

Such a nice place to go ... We enjoyed Tom's private tour so much. We definitely want to go back in another time. Make sure to call for an appointment before you go...

Mary Whitley (Tuesday, August 20 19 03:16 pm EDT)

Hi,
Here is a donation for your lovely garden! My cousin brought us to it last month. I love to garden, too, so I do understand how much work it takes.
Thanks for sharing such a beautiful, fulfilling place!

Nicole Clem (Tuesday, August 20 19 03:14 pm EDT)

Dear Birdsong Pleasure Garden,
Thank you for allowing our 4-H Day Camp to visit your beautiful flower wonderland! The plants were so interesting We really enjoyed our time. Sincerely,
4-H Day Camp,
Stanley, Virginia

Chris Schmidt (Tuesday, August 20 19 03:12 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley and Tom,
This a belated thank you for the wonderful tour you gave to me and my two companions last week. I was so impressed with what you have done. It must bring you great pleasure to live there! You have quite a collection of impressive trees, especially the $4 River Birches!
Again, thank you for all the time and botanical information you shared with us!

Andy Starnes (Monday, June 24 19 03:53 pm EDT)

Hi Lesley
Just wanted to thank you for our visit and the wonderful tour you gave us. Very interesting and informative!
Thanks for sharing your beautiful place with us
Andy and Beth

Vernell Burton (Monday, June 17 19 10:25 am EDT)

We really enjoyed meeting you and your husband . Also we really enjoyed your garden, just lovely. You were so nice to give me so much information. I wanted to stay home today and work in yard, but had things to do at the office. Your yard is beautiful and it is hard to believe the garden that you and your husband have established and maintain.
I hope we can get back when the day lilies bloom !! And Thanks for your e-mail.

Susan Hornbostel (Friday, June 07 19 09:38 am EDT)

Dear Lesley, Thanks for the wonderful garden tour you gave me and my sisters last week. They both agreed that it was the best activity of our 5 days together. It is such a pleasure to see a personal garden, and hear about its progress and the choices made. Since it was my second visit, I could take in more of the design, especially the artful berms that create spaces and movement through the garden. And now I am surveying my hilltop to see where I could put in a small pond.
Many many thanks, and I'll be back. Susan H.

Gay Goldstone (Monday, May 13 19 03:30 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley and Tom,

Thank you so very much for a lovely day!! Your gardens are beautiful, creative, charming, peaceful, fascinating and fun! What a wonderful tour you gave, Lesley!! Beth and I enjoyed every minute, beginning with the beautiful vista of the mountains as we had our little picnic! Thanks for the bug spray too! We enjoyed seeing the usual and so much of the unusual! You have varieties that I’ve never seen before and so many stories as we walked through the paths and the lawns.

Thank you so much for sharing the fruits (and vegetables) of your labors. I will pass the word to my friends that Pleasure Gardens is a very special place to visit!!

Thank you again.

Very Sincerely,
Gay

Anne Nenninger (Wednesday, October 03 18 12:08 pm EDT)

Lesley & Tom,
Thank you so much for your hospitality yesterday. We loved touring your beautiful gardens and seeing the results of your hard work! Best wishes, Anne, Program Chair, Rappahannock Garden Club

Karen Fleming (Wednesday, October 03 18 12:06 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley,
What a splendid day at Birdsong Pleasure Garden. We are pleased that you are doing the program presentation for our garden club. Let's definitely stay in touch. Lots of special wishes, Karen, Five Hills Garden Club, Vienna, Virginia

Lisa M. (Monday, August 13 18 04:03 pm EDT)

What a beautiful place and the owners couldn't be nicer or more inviting! We had a great tour with Tom who took his time taking us around the property and sharing their gardens with us. You need to contact them first before going but they respond quickly (we contacted them through Facebook messenger- we got a response within an hour). I would love to come back with my kids and take them around and enjoy picnic lunch too!

Diane Mattis (Sunday, July 08 18 05:04 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley and Tom,
I was with the group from the Delaware Center for Horticulture who toured your lovely garden earlier in June. There was so much to see, so much to learn and so much to "oooh and ahh" over! You have done such a wonderful job of showing off so many of Mother Nature's treasures, including your vegetable garden. I ust confess it made me a bit envious! And even more envious to see the view you have when you pick up your mail. Thank you so much for this glimpse into your very productive lives! Sincerely, Diane Mattis, Havertown, Pennsylvania

Missy Hoak (Sunday, July 08 18 04:57 pm EDT)

Tom and Lesley
Thank you for sharing your beautiful garden with our Valley Eye Clinic group - a bright part of our day! We appreciate your hospitality very much, Missy

Missie Diebert (Sunday, July 01 18 07:57 pm EDT)

Dear Tom and Lesley,
What a lovely afternoon in your absolutely beautiful gardens! You've inspired us all to go home and plant something. Being in nature is healing a your kindness is uplifting. Thank you so much for the invitation.
Sincerely,
Missie and the staff at Valley Eye Clinic, Luray

Mary Malter & Red Hat Ladies (Sunday, July 01 18 07:47 pm EDT)

June 22, 2018
to :The Mack's & the Garden Club,
Thank you for opening your garden and sharing with with us. We experienced such beauty and wonderment as we strolled through your labor of love.
The serving of tea added to our experience along with the delicious cakes & cookies made it most memorable. You truly made us feel special with your friendly conversation and hospitality.

Adelheid Osmer, South Court Inn (Sunday, July 01 18 07:43 pm EDT)

June 19, 2018
Dear Lesley & Tom,
Thank you so much for opening your garden to me and all the other folks this last Saturday. What a truly incredible space you have created thru the labor of your hands. What a refuge!

In my wildest dreams my garden looks like that as well!

Marcia Stephenson, Delaware Center for Horticulture (Sunday, July 01 18 07:37 pm EDT)

Lesley & Tom,
Thank you both so much for hosting our group's bus tour (Delaware Center for Horticulture) for a garden visit. It was wonderful to see your garden during the spring season! Everyone really enjoyed their visit. We would like to book a visit for a group next year, June, 2019.

Val Story (Tuesday, May 22 18 12:17 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley and Tom,
Thank you so much for opening your gardens for Cedar Run Garden Club. I heard many positive, wonderful things about your gardens.
You have a beautiful place, lunch (at the Mimslyn) turned out fine, too.
Walter says thank you, too. Fondly, Val Story

Clancey Arnold, Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce (Wednesday, April 11 18 03:42 pm EDT)

Dear Lesley , I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for sharing your beautiful Birdsong Pleasure Garden with us. We had such a lovely time. It was such a pleasure to experience the garden through your eyes. What you and your husband have created is beyond amazing...glorious if you will!

Marcia and Rob (Saturday, February 24 18 12:34 pm EST)

Lesley and Tom,
Rob and I wanted to thank you for such a fun visit to your garden. What a beautiful space you've created. Loved seeing all of your planting areas, evergreens, art and places to relax and take it all in. The views of the mountains in the distance are spectacular! We look forward to our next visit in 2018.

Elizabeth and Richard Fitt (Saturday, February 24 18 12:31 pm EST)

Dear Lesley and Tom, We so enjoyed strolling through your gardens and visiting with you. You have such a wonderful variety of perennials, shrubs, and trees, a real treasure trove of plant friends. It was quite a learning experience for us in so many ways...the garden rooms, the inviting and private areas...What a creative way to garden and such fun for visitors.

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Botanical Gardens at JMU (Monday, December 04 17 06:03 pm EST)

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Botanical Gardens at JMU
September 18

We hope to see you at our Fall Plant Sale! Thanks again for the lovely tour of your gardens! What an inspiring, restful visit!

Stacey Jolene (Saturday, November 04 17 02:30 pm EDT)

An absolutely beautiful place! We really enjoyed walking through the gardens. Leslie and Tom are very gracious hosts and extremely knowledgeable. We learned a lot and appreciate the time they took to answer all of our questions and share their passion with us. Would highly recommend visiting them.

Lynn Fulling (Saturday, November 04 17 02:29 pm EDT)

A very special garden, tended by a kind knowledge couple. Thank you for creating this beautiful space and sharing it with us.

Karen Rice (Saturday, November 04 17 02:28 pm EDT)

Lesley, Thank you for your hospitality. We all thoroughly enjoyed touring your beautiful gardens and came away inspired. Karen

Billye Stevens (Wednesday, August 30 17 10:25 pm EDT)

Thank you again for your graciousness yesterday, May 15, to me in making it so easy to tour your lovely Birdsong Pleasure Garden, and the Open House was a special treat. You both have done a remarkable job and make it special to share it with others.

I look forward to visiting with you in the fall.

Keep on keepin' on. ?

Cordially,

Billye Stevens

Dolores Drury (Wednesday, August 30 17 10:15 pm EDT)

Hi and thank you Lesley. Our visit to your 'paradise' garden was a highlight of our anniversary getaway!

Bill Oakley (Wednesday, August 30 17 10:13 pm EDT)

Lesley, Tom,

Thank you for the pictures!

We so enjoyed our time with you and the VIP treatment for Mom in particular.

The Swiss chard was delicious!

Linda (Wednesday, August 30 17 07:18 pm EDT)

Hi Lesley
Thank you ! We had a,great time! You guys do so much work! We are finding lots of interesting things ! Warmest regards Linda. Ken Ike fonzie

Robbin Jo (Monday, July 17 17 01:09 pm EDT)

Thank you so much for having me over to see your gardens. They are just unbelieeable and so wonderful - a true hidden treasure in Luray. It was such a treat to see the "bare bones" picture, and the amazing result of all your work. I learned a few things - I do want a bald cyperss - something I've "waffled on" for years; sawdust makes an outstanding path, and on so many acres a golf cart is a must! Your property is amazing and it is so nice that you happily share it with everyone.

Suzanne Boag (Monday, July 17 17 01:02 pm EDT)

Thank you so much for opening up your home and garden to the Master Gardeners for our June Association Meeting. It was a beautiful day and on behalf of NSVMGA, thanks for the personal tours of Birdsong Pleasure Garden, truly a labor of love!

JoAnn Pendley (Monday, April 10 17 09:46 am EDT)

JoAnn Pendley
9/5/16

Lesley,
You have "made my day"! I just finished looking at your on-line information and clearly Birdsong Pleasure Garden is exactly the type of "Must See Garden" that I was looking for.

Ann Avondale (Wednesday, January 18 17 11:57 am EST)

Ann Avondale reviewed Birdsong Pleasure Garden — 5 star
January 14 at 11:43pm ·
We loved exploring The Birdsong Pleasure Garden this weekend. I was surprised how many things were in bloom even in January! The trees were showing off their leafless limbs: some twisting, some smooth, some peeling bark like old books. Little sculptures came out of hiding and the pine forest took center stage with its many different kinds of evergreen needles. We learned the names of many winter blooming flowers and shrubs and watched the birds feasting at the feeders. All this surrounded by majestic mountains and rolling farm hillsides. It was a truly relaxing and refreshing day!

Robbin Jo Holland (Sunday, June 26 16 03:08 pm EDT)

Thank you Lesley & Tom, your gardens are unbelievable and so wonderful - a true hidden treasure in Luray. It was such a treat to see the "bare bones" picture, and then the amazing result of all
your work.

Sam Watkins (Wednesday, June 08 16 06:43 pm EDT)

Thank you Lesley & Tom for the warm Luray hospitality and the tour of your beautiful garden. We look forward to our next visit.

Laura Kresse (Wednesday, June 08 16 06:41 pm EDT)

I am awed by the hard work and dedication and the beauty!!

Pj Falter (Wednesday, June 08 16 06:35 pm EDT)

Pj Falter
5starI had the most delightful day with Leslie showing me around the gardens. What a beautiful place to enjoy God's Presence through His creation. Thank you Leslie and Tom for all you have invested
in this labor of love. It was quite a refreshing.

Old Fredricktown Garden Club (Monday, November 02 15 09:49 am EST)

Dear Lesley,
Thank you for the pleasure of enjoying your beautiful gardens! And, we so appreciate your hospitality. Our best to you.

Alison Coltrane (Tuesday, September 15 15 02:57 pm EDT)

Hey Lesley!

Thanks for your message. I just added a link to your beautiful place on my website.

When you and Tom decide to venture into town, let me know so you can come and tour the hostel!

Wes Evans (Sunday, August 09 15 11:22 am EDT)

It is always a blessing just to see the lovely the garden ya'll have built. Thank you for the grand tour we took of your garden. I'm still ah stuck, how beautiful it is.

Judy Peabody (Saturday, June 27 15 05:56 pm EDT)

Lesley,
Thank you so very, very much for the wonderful tour. Thank you for what you do and the happiness it will bring to many.