I’m constantly surprised at the joy that can be found in simplicity. Of course, the grand gestures and the momentous events are important, after all we all need a little luxury and excitement. Momentous events though, involve careful planning and meticulous preparation and the pleasure is in the anticipation as well as in the experience itself. The delight in an unanticipated encounter with a small miracle is totally different, the wonder of it brings on a smile as the thrill of it all spreads through the body like the warmth of the sun.
It’s the same with the garden, every Spring and Summer the anticipation is palpable as we wait to see how the planning, preparation and planting emerges into reality. Sometimes, the finished design is exactly as we’d imagined it would be, sometimes it’s a little different but still quite effective and at other times it’s nothing like it should be and it has to be endured (or we have to make an effort to appreciate it) at least until the onset of Autumn.
Then there are those unforeseen treasures. The seeds borrowed from acclaimed gardens that have quietly germinated and blossomed, for example the Larkspur and the Evening Primrose. Plants that re-seed without any regard to plans and designs, yet add a surprising richness to the composition. The unexpected vistas that change nearly on a weekly basis as plants flourish and finish. The plants, shrubs and trees that were gifts (either in the form of cuttings, seeds or established plants) from friends and family and trigger so many fond memories of these very special people.
Bara, pridd a Prosecco 