And me? Anything that can't contribute to my vase simply doesn't take up residence in my garden.
Happily for me that excludes nothing...
because in my mind, ANYTHING that grows (on my own property... occasionally someone elses's )
is fodder for cutting. From bolting lettuce and gone-to-seed-arugula (my cutting material of the moment) to the shiny foliage of the common Manhattan euonymous to apple tree branches dripping with small fruit...
to parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme...
the lowliest of shrubs, the scruffiest of wildflowers...
the humblest of grasses and weeds...nothing that catches my eye, tells me a story,
or seduces me with its branching or flowering form...
can escape my secateurs.
though often lack of need doesn't translate to lack of desire. Consequently I often succumb to the temptation of grocery store lilies or orchids.
I have a spot in front, just off my porch with wicker chairs and a marble table...just the right height for floral composing...and a spot for Husband or a friend to sit while I do so.
(and if he or she can find a vacant chair...)
A giant arrangement for the living room library table...
less formal, but cheery blossoms for the kitchen and entry.
Truly, along with good food and wine and conversation
arranging flowers is one of life's greatest pleasures.
