Saturday, May 9, 2009

Iris

The older I get, the more I hold dear objects I received from friends. The heavy white ceramic mixing bowl I received as a wedding present from my parents' neighbors, Dave and Beth. The teeny blue French medicine bottle from Amy. The fish plate from Marcia. The shapely blue vase from Suzanne. The thick afghan from Beckie. The kerosene candle from Claire. The Anne Sexton book from Maryfrances. The Debra Wald teacup from Jamie. I could make a long list... The objects are marked with a 13-year marriage of memories as well as memories with that friend.

I feel the same way about plants from friends. In Chicago, neighbors and I traded plants regularly. It doesn't seem to happen here very often. This morning I was delighted to see this iris open. It's from my friend Jen who shared some bulbs with me last year. I need to drive and see her flowers blooming, as well. 

5 comments:

amy wolgemuth bordoni said...

Stunning photo, ann. My irises (also a trade) are just tear inducing right now. Both because they are so heart-stoppingly beautiful and because they will so soon be gone. Too bad they aren't like the blue medicine bottle - or the Dick & Jane bag - you can hold in your hand.

Emily said...

Happy Mother's Day! Next time you are in Chicago I have some white phlox for you!

Stacy said...

There is a Perennial Plant Exchange going on at the Mooresville Library on June 4 at 6PM. I am hoping to make it!

I have lemon balm, mint and some lilies if you want to swap. :)

Hopefully I can swap more soon - my little garden is still growing! Half of my plants are a result of one-sided swaps! :)

Lovely iris!

Jen said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Oh Ann, it's gorgeous! Mine are blooming as well. OJ keeps picking them and I try to get her to leave them so all our neighbors can enjoy them too. I'm so glad you enjoy my Grandma's irises. She would be very pleased that they bring happiness to lots of people.