A couple of weeks ago while visiting my daughter, Linda, I was introduced to the book "Emily Dickinson's Gardens, A celebration of a poet and gardener" by Marta McDowell. I returned home and quickly ordered a copy of my own from Amazon.com.Yesterday, I spent almost the entire day reading this inspiring book. It made me want to go outside and start digging in the soil. It also reminded me of the plants I have on my property, many of them given to me by my children on various occasions. There's the fragrant purple Lilac that stands near the street and a sweet smelling Mock Orange that sits next to the house and climbs toward the roof. In our front yard, stands a pink dogwood (I had two, but sadly one died last year) and a gorgeous pink peony (a gift from my husband); in my backyard garden there's a Chrysler Imperial Rose bush--all of these were gifts of love at special times in my life, each one a sacred treasure.
My own little piece of Eden has many plants and an orchard which will soon be in full bloom. There will be Bing cherries, Royal Anne cherries, plums, apricots, cherry plums, pears, several varieties of apples, Concord grapes, peaches, and pawpaws. Shade will be provided by ancient English Walnut and Filbert trees. There are also blackberries, raspberries and red rhubarb.
The book also reminded me of my backyard Serenity Garden and the solace I find there each day throughout the summer months.
Today is sunny and warm--a day that gives added meaning to "Emily Dickinson's Gardens" and the joy we find in the color, fragrance, and beauty of summer.
Linda has created a wonderful blog for gardeners at Emily Dickinson's Garden. I encourage everyone to go there to explore Dickinson's poetry, plants, and the joys of gardening.
~Which flower is your favorite?
