It’s that blossom filled time of year again.
White roses
Dame’s Rocket and Rhododendron
Category: gardening
“Yet the lilac with mastering odor holds me”
Wait!
The lilacs are blooming!
It seems to early, but we had a mild winter.
I want time to stop. With the cherry tree blossoms just about to drop and the lilacs just opening, this phase of spring sings perfection.
In an American literature course a million years ago we read poetry. When we analyzed Whitman’s “When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom’d,” we discussed the theme of grief and considered the pastoral elements in the poem.
What about the lilacs?
“Have you ever smelled lilacs?” Dr. Chianese, our professor, asked us.
Most of us had not. We were Los Angeles types moved by scent of jasmine and orange blossoms. We had no source of reference.
I now understand Dr. Chianese’s question, for the scent of a lilac is truly exquisite, ephemeral, and unique. The short space of time when Whitman contemplated the death of President Lincoln, and I rejoice in the rebirth of the garden.
Happy Spring
I love this blossom time of year.
Cool Summer
It’s not.
In fact, we’ve been unusually warm and dry in Washington State.
Yes, I miss the rain.
Fortunately, my garden gives me cool whites
and cool blues
Stay cool!
Discoveries
At some point this afternoon I looked up from my work and discovered the clouds had cleared and the garden beckoned.
As I went out into the rain scent and blossom, I spied this little tree frog.
A moment later, something red caught my eye.
The bees moved too fast for my camera.
But they love the foxgloves.
It only took a moment to remind me of the wonder in a little space of our world.
Spring and Sanity
Yes, once again, I’ll announce the news:
SPRING IS MY FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR!
Who can resist all the blooming flowers, singing birds, croaking frogs, warming days . . .
Possibility.
I’ve been busy with revisions, for I have decided ONCE AGAIN my manuscript needs quite a bit of work.
I’m also working on something big, but I cannot discuss it now. Let’s just say it has something to do with sanity and writing (yes, the two do go together).
I’ll leave you with an image of spring.
Works in Progress
I’ve been busy this summer.
Out in the garden
Constantly changing . . .
New discoveries
My garden is my ongoing work in progress.
I suppose making a connection between gardening and writing isn’t new, but I cannot help but see the connection. I am also working on a new YA novel. I’m revising right now.
I hope to see a finished project soon.
Fickle Spring
Spring arrived this week.
I took these photos on Monday:
Lovely Crocuses
Early Daffodils
A Lonely Snowdrop
On Tuesday I woke up to find . . .
Snow!
Fortunately, the snow left quickly.
I’m waiting now for some sunshine.
Happy Spring!
>First Day
>The new year is born in a day of dazzling sunshine and snow lingering on the hills.
I spent the morning working in the garden. Cutting back spent hollyhock and foxglove stems . . . Pushing aside the worn feverfew and poppy plants to see what new life will emerge in a month or two.
1-1-11
There is so much anticipation in this year to come. My revisions should be done soon, and I’m working hard to finish up an intrinsic novel. At home, I will continue to enjoy the magic of my boys.
Exciting, healthy, delightful months ahead.
With writing, I want to work on the craft of imagery and detail. I will be returning to the lovely world of poetry to help me with this task. Who knows? I may get a few worthwhile poems out of the process.
Finally, I have a short phrase that has become my mantra or theme for the year to come. Some may find a little silly or peculiar, but those who know how darn serious I can get at times, may understand why I picked it.
Here it is my theme for the new year:
Lighten up!
What is yours?
Happy New Year everyone!
Michèle Griskey 