Thursday, September 17, 2015

spring has sprung

Pretty in pink...


crabapples


freesias


Vulcan magnolia 

massacre

There's been mayhem in the orchard. 




We've procrastinated about pruning the fruit trees for three years in a row. 
This winter called for drastic measures if we were going to be able to pick the fruit without a very tall ladder.
We've been a bit tentative about how to go about it. 
In the end, hubby just started with the chainsaw and gave them all a thorough chop. 




It looked horrible. 




But things often look worse before they get better.
The trees are already shooting new growth and even a few tentative blossoms are making an appearance with the promise that next year will be a bumper crop.



Hope and optimism are essential in the country.





spring beauty

It’s a proper springy spring this year. Not a huge jump from cold to hot temperatures all at once. Sometimes we seem to go straight from winter to summer with no mild weather in between.
This year is perfect with balmy days that gently ease us into short sleeves and bare legs plus cool nights with just a nip in the air.
And today, some welcome rain to encourage all those lovely blossoms and fresh new growth.

Forest Pansy.
So interesting the way the pretty little flowers sprout straight from the branches.


More of my favourite colour in the garden. Can't get enough of this lovely magenta!



This Japanese maple is delightful with its surprising burst of bright red foliage.



“Spring Fire” has vibrant ruby coloured new growth which then changes to green.

I love plants that take you by surprise.


This little bloom below is an akebia - chocolate vine.
It is the first thing we planted here.


Now it is entwined all over the place. Hubby calls it The Triffid.
I am not quite sure how to tame it, but the flowers are sweet and actually smell like cocoa.







quiet achievers

Squeaky wheels get the most oil. 
Some plants demand lots of attention.
I prefer plants that happily take care of themselves.
That's one reason I like old fashioned roses.

The quiet achievers are undervalued.
Unassuming and undemanding, their unobtrusive attributes are often overlooked.

Take this little beauty – “coco michelia”. 




The subtle muted blossoms are tucked away; hidden at first glance.
It is the pervading port wine fragrance that arrests your attention and can really be appreciated at a distance on the warm afternoon air.

Never assume a quiet person is boring. They have treasure tucked beneath the surface that is deep and beautiful. 
Worthwhile discovering if you give them time and space.
My daughter doesn’t say much, but the way she expresses music through her lovely hands as she plays the cello is an exquisite art form of communication.




The hidden beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit is precious in God’s eyes.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

link to lovely

Sharing a link to Sophie Hansen 's latest post about another workshop - photographing flowers. 
Beautiful!