We had just the semblance of a plan and unbridled enthusiasm.
We grew up seeing many beautiful gardens, but also plenty that were overgrown and desiccating.
We were confident that with love and determination, ours would be the former.
It would not be a perfectly ordered set of rows with packets on stakes clearly marking what lay beneath. Our style was, and continues to be, a bit free form.
With laughter, a sense of adventure and a common desire to be together in real time, we made a nutrient rich soil that saw many easy to grow, cheerful perennials popping up all over.
Our first serious effort was when we planted what we thought was a rose. What germinated was a magnificent yet complex orchid, complete with hidden tunnels and unfamiliar structures. We continue to nurture that beautifully unique flower and be amazed by its colorful emergence.
Our second major endeavor did produce a glorious rose complete with strong roots and early sharp thorns. With great pride and loving guidance, we watch with wonder it as it blooms brightly with a joyous spirit happily opening to the sun.
Nature needs no magic, and our garden is no Eden.
We plant together, yet just as importantly, plant seeds of our own. We tend to each other’s efforts and no individual patch grows too tall to cast stifling shadows.
Our cacophony of flora needs constant attention to make sure the weeds get plucked early, the weevils are kept at bay and unnecessary fertilizer is washed away quickly.
Thank you, Susan, for getting your hands dirty, digging deep, hitting rocks yet moving on, for growing older yet never growing up.
Our garden will continue to be the focus of my life.
I love you madly. Happy Anniversary.
Make It a Good Story 