A View on Winter

In anticipation of our first snow, I surveyed the garden to see what I would see. Camera in tow, I headed down the stairs in the blustery wind and rain. What would possess me? Not exactly sure, but this I know for sure: I am driven by a strange desire to visit my plants– no matter what time of year. I have developed a profound connection with the plants. 

Most perennials have been cut back to the ground and the trees and shrubs are now in complete focus. What do I see? Decline. Decay. Deterioration. Yet in the midst of this seasonal decomposition, a bit of steadfast determination has caught my eye. Possibility. Optimism. Is this a metaphor for hope?

Tiny buds wait patiently.

Cones cling tightly.

Green is ever so green.

The seasons of one’s life are really no different than those of the garden. Some seasons transition beautifully from one to another. Others are harsh and relentless. Like a garden, one must have a little expectation of better days to come. A stoic bud ready to open when inclement seasons have passed– a garden is life, filled with patience and hope.

Despite the dreary cold day which brought rain, thunder and lighting, the sun also shown near the afternoon’s final hours. Tonight will bring snow and a whole new crystallized palette for the garden.

And I, I will wait patiently.

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day - May 2012

It’s Garden Blogger’s Bloom Day and this month’s theme is Visions in White. Here’s what’s blooming in my garden right now.

Moonlight Chinese Hydrangea Vine

 

Weston’s Pink and Sweet Swamp Azalea

 

Oakleaf Hydrangea

The panicles are just beginning to bloom.

 

Catalpa Tree

Difficult to photograph, but you get the idea.

 

A closer view of the blooms among the giant leaves.

 

Even the lichen covered bench is beatiful with blossoms scattered about.

 

Garden Bloggers’ Bloom Day is a Meme created by Carol at May Dreams Gardens. Gardeners post images of what’s blooming in their garden on the 15th day of every month. To see what’s blooming all over the world today, visit Carol’s blog.