In this time of mainly staying home, I take pleasure in flowers. I have about a dozen orchids, some over ten years old. I am no expert on their care - I have previously written that they flourish under my benign neglect, but flourish they have throughout the pandemic. I currently have seven blooming. I can get lost in their beauty, drawn in to their centres, fascinated by the complexity.
Each orchid has its unique charm and many bring back memories of where I got them or who gave them to me. A few came my way when my then 95 year old cousin died. Each time they re-flower it feels like a gift from her. All three of those orchids sent up new shoots and bloomed over the past few months; it was as if they knew I needed their beauty. Part of the joy is the surprise of shoots appearing, sometimes after a couple of years of being dormant and once the flowers open, they stay for a few months.
Outside I can't help but stop to admire various gardens. Lilies in many vibrant colours make their presence known. These lovely orange blossoms will stick around, but like most perennials they have their season.
On my walk I was treated to this patch of pink - varying shades competing for attention. It has been a hot start to summer. After my walk I was happy to retreat inside with air conditioning surrounded by my orchids.
I think of you every time I look at my poor orchids. They all have the gray "shoots", but they never bloom. I'm trying to be careful not to overwater them. A friend (former student) has bought me many as gifts - of course blooming beautifully and for a long time when they arrive. Then - only green leaves and the gray shoots. I wish I could send them to your orchid spa!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos, and the flowers are so pretty,Susan.
ReplyDeleteI’m also lost not only in your orchids but also the vibrant flowers you stopped to admire outdoors. I agree each orchid has unique face and pattern and understand how you love them with memory to each of them. Waterlogue is my favorite app on my iPhone.
ReplyDeleteYoko