Tag Archives: flowers

Unfurled

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Spring in Middle America is a delight for the senses. The rhythm of nature’s ritual creates longer days of sunlight, much needed rains, and the awakening of life around us People generally respond to such change with a renewed sense of optimism. Exiting our caves for new adventures (and tasks) somehow lifts our spirits, especially after a year of lock-downs.

The amazing and methodical unfurling of the iris’ glorious petals reminds me that beauty still exists in our world, and can be found as close as my backyard. This flower is simply one of thousands upon thousands of plant species which explode forth from their winter dormancy. The change of seasons not only rouses my senses, but does something wonderful inside of me. Hard to explain, but I like it’s effects.

I contemplated including (in this post) myriad flower photos which I have taken over decades, but declined for several reasons: too painstaking to select just the ‘right’ ones; my images cannot equal those of so many talented photographers (not that I am into comparing, but I enjoy looking at best rather than good); don’t want this post to end up like a run-on-sentence!

So, I have chosen to limit my photos to one flower with the express purpose of narrowing my written expression to only a few words. Optimism. Hope. Renewal. Beauty. Unity.

Wildflowers

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These wildflowers came-of-age after seeds were scattered on a small plot of ground. Over the course of a few months and with nature’s guiding hand, the verdant foliage grew and the flowers bloomed.

There are myriad features concerning flowers which fascinate me. From indigo lotus’ of ancient Egypt to contemporary and magnificent hybrids of an English garden; from fields of ruby-red poppies to rows of French lavender, flowers are simply amazing. They are undeniably marvelous!

The fullness of colors. The variety of shapes. The sizes and heights. The plethora of fragrances. Their insect attracting and repelling qualities. Many have medicinal properties and some, such as nasturtiums, are edible.

Whether growing near the top of oxygen-starved mountains or in the harshest deserts, flowers are a reminder of resiliency. Conversely, they also reveal the delicate nature of life since a flower-pot zinnia won’t survive more than a week without water.

With about four million species, flowers are one of God’s best creations.They make us smile. They usher in feelings of awe. They remind us of days past. They hold the promise of future joys. They comfort and decorate and celebrate. They make living more enjoyable.

Why not enjoy a flower today? Observing is better than picking! And, planting is even better.

Afternoon Delight

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Took a walk in a local park with a small lake and came across several unexpected treats for the eyes. I don’t know what this flower is called, but the deep purple is so beautifully rich that I had to take a photograph and share it.

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Then, a group of kayakers worked their way around the lake. The gentle paddling and smooth waves added a sense of serenity.

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A little further down the path we came across this guy’s skin. The reptile must have shed recently because the skin was entirely intact. Fascinating how snakes exit their outer layer of skin to rid themselves of parasites and give them room to grow.

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Came across another flower which caught my eye. Again, I don’t know the name…obviously I am not a botanist or gardener, but I do appreciate the unusual and the beautiful.

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Then, we arrived home to be greeted by our bright friends, the Black-eyed Susan’s. Not bad for an half hour walk in the park. May your walk in life produce joyful moments.

 

BLOOM

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June is here and so are the beginning of a multitude of blooms. This flower is of the Hibiscus family of plants. I posted a couple views of this plant on Mother’s Day, but couldn’t resist this image shot with my new Samsung S10…amazing clarity without any alteration.

As I study the intricacies of this one flower, I am in awe of its magnificence. No wonder Monet and many others painted so many flowers. They are inspiring to behold! God certainly is the Master at creating the sublime.

May your Summer be full of fascinating moments and beautiful surprises !

 

R E D

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There are 1,795 species within the genus of the plant family called Begoniaceae (Wikipedia). They are commonly referred to as begonias. The image above is simply one example of this flowering plant.

Colors, shapes, sizes, leaves, buds, flowers, stems make each begonia unique…rather like people. Whether they are native to the soil where they originally thrived or are imported to a local nursery or store, the beauty of these flowers is in the eye of the beholder.

Certainly there are more grand and complex flowers than the begonia, but few genus’ have as many species. And, each species may produce thousands, if not millions, of the same plant type. Yet, each one is totally unique. Again, I am reminded of all the variations within the species of Homo sapiens.

Although red is not my favorite color, I have owned several red vehicles and find red blossoming flowers to be special. Perhaps red colored cars produce a significant contrast against the background of dull pavement and the abundance of white vehicles. And, it may be that when red blossoms are compared to vivid green leaves and stems they stand out so well.

As Mike Savage, a local Kansas City artist states, “Art is simple. You either like it or you don’t”. The same holds true with flowers, trees, birds, music, clothing, buildings, etc. However, there is one thing which should never be placed in the category of being liked or disliked.

People, as in ethnicity, gender and age.

Color, customs, language, tribe, religion, culture or any other differences should not be liked or disliked, but celebrated for their uniqueness. As long as humans strive for peaceful co-existence they can all be red for that matter!

D R I P S

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What comes to mind when you read the word drip? A leaking faucet, perhaps? A roof with leaks large enough to place trash cans underneath to collect the welcomed water? Images of thatched roofs dripping from monsoons? The outer edge of umbrellas shedding the rainwater away from your head? Or, dare I say, even the constant whining from a family member or acquaintance?

I thought of leaves and flowers dripping from a fresh watering. In the following photos, I almost waited too long to capture the dripping water. How beautiful water droplets are!

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PINWHEEL

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A pinwheel by definition is “a child’s toy consisting of a stick with colored vanes that twirl in the wind”. They can be found across the globe. Parades and birthday parties are among the most popular places to find them. They are whimsical, fascinating to watch, and just plain fun. Their simplicity is partly what makes them so enjoyable…they can be made from paper and plastic or we can buy one for a small amount of money. A simple rush of wind is all it takes to make them spin. Yet, they are still popular after centuries of playful use!

This is nature’s pinwheel. Actually, one of many such flowers with this type of configuration. This is a Vinca flower which grows from a vine and is actually a ground covering. Simple, but lovely. I am always amazed as I witness something from nature which has been copied or imitated by man. Think of planes and birds, for instance. One cannot escape the resemblance nor the actual physics of both.

We, as humans, strive to become more intelligent and better than the generation before. We are on a constant quest to develop technologies which advance whatever field they may be in. This is natural, I suppose, however, let us not forget who is the Original Designer of all that is beautiful…God. To imitate Him is the supreme compliment.

Let us not forget this fact in our hast to rush ahead to the next ‘discovery’ or ‘cure’. Man is always a step behind. This is better than not being in line at all, though. I certainly am grateful that He allows us to explore His creation for the betterment of mankind. Enjoy the simplicity as well as the complexity of this world we have been given to protect and magnify. And, guard against those who would manipulate His creation for evil intent.

Spring

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Soon, we will see the vibrant colors of Spring.

Soon, we will smell the fragrance of lilacs and all other blooming flowers.

Soon, we will feel the texture of lush leaves and delicate petals.

Soon, we will witness bees and butterflies pollinating, and birds propagating.

Soon, we will experience the full wonder of this season.

And, if we keep our eyes, ears and noses open to her transforming beauty, Spring offers treasures we cannot make nor buy, but simply enjoy for free.

Spring also offers her greatest gift…Resurrection.

May our hearts be open to all that is Spring.