We had flowers everywhere--rhododendrons, roses, snap-dragons, daffodils, tulips, carnations, dahlias and lots more. Mom loved flowers and still does.My brothers did most of the work in the vegetable gardens while my sisters and I helped keep the flower beds tidy and clean. I hated the work, especially weeding. In those early years I didn't appreciate the beauty of the flowers.
Mom had an especially gorgeous dahlia garden. I don't remember working in it. I think it was so special that my mother was the only one who watched over it. The dahlias grew along the front of our property, near the highway. Many a traveler stopped to admire the garden and sometimes they'd chat with Mom. Often, before they went on their way, she'd cut them a bouquet. I'm certain she found special joy in sharing her glorious flowers with others.
It took becoming an adult for me to fully appreciate the gift of flowers. They are clearly designed by the Master Crafter.
Even though I now see their true beauty I'm not very adept at growing them. Each year, when I plant I wish them well and apologize for being the one who will watch over and raise them. With me for a gardener their chances of reaching their highest potential as flowers, isn't great.
I especially love roses, but so do the deer. When blooms first appear the night raiders arrive and can decimate an entire rose garden in one night. Because of the deer I now grow a few roses in pots on my deck, safely locked behind a gate.
Yellow roses are my favorite. I wonder if it has anything to do with the fact that my father loved them too. He's gone now, and yellow roses remind me of him.
This is a photo of one from last season, covered in dew. I thought it was especially exquisite.
When I was young and working in my mother and father's flower gardens I complained a lot. It wasn't all bad, though. I remember sunshine and long chats while we toiled away. And I especially loved the fragrance of the roses and carnations. Sometimes we'd pluck succulent flowers and drink their sweet nectar.
Today, I have a few flowerbeds, but they're made up mostly of non-flowering plants. I have my garden on my deck in the summer where it's close at hand and I can tend it without help form my husband. I love sitting on my deck with flowers all around.
I especially love the wild flowers that grow in the fields surrounding my home. They don't depend on me to care for them, only the Creator.
My parents love of beauty meant everyone had to work. I'm grateful. Work is good for kids and adults. I learned to stick to a job until it was completed. To keep on working even if I was tired. And to appreciate the fruit of my labors.
And I'm so grateful for the memories.
