Flower Power

I am loving this warm weather! My forsythia bushes are just beginning to bloom. The bright yellow blossoms make me smile. 

I spent some time this week planting purple and yellow pansies. I adore pansies! They are among the first to bloom in the Spring. They appear so delicate yet withstand the last snowstorms of winter. They are a beautiful reminder of endurance and strength. 

Isn't is interesting how the sight and/or smell of flowers can stir so many emotions and memories? Every year as I plant my petunias I sing a childhood song that reminds me to try to gladden the spot where I've been planted. Whenever I smell petunias their aroma transports me back to my youth to an amusement park where my family would go each year to celebrate my birthday. There is such a power in nature, which is one of the reasons I enjoy gardening.

Last year I happened upon a person who was so enthusiastic about gardening that they found a way to take their garden with them. (Please forgive the quality of my old phone pictures)

I truly admire people who find creative ways to share their passion! 

 I hope you can find some time today to share something you're passionate about. 

Winter Florals

I love to use amaryllis flowers in my
winter decorating.

I've always used the fake variety

but for Christmas a friend gave me
my first amaryllis bulb.It was so fun to watch it grow, it changed almost daily.
I was so happy with my real live amaryllis
that I partnered it with a live orchid. Both are easy and rewarding to grow.
And they're beautiful too!