Today was one of those days, just possibly the best day of the year so far. I had fully intended to work inside all day (a card deadline is looming) but on such a warm perfect Saturday, I could not resist the pull of the earth. So instead, I spent a couple of pleasant hours outside in the afternoon, clearing leaves out of the flower beds. At the bed under the old oak tree, a glance overhead confirmed that this would not be the last time. A mass of last year's leaves still clings stubbornly to the tree, waiting for the new leaves to push them off. I worked my way around the tree counterclockwise, reacquainting myself with old friends.
6:00 William Churchill daffodils are up about 8" already. The blossoms, when they come, will be frilly white with a bright orange stigma, and a heady fragrance.
5:00-2:00 David phlox, just pushing out of the ground, have spread in this area. Their white blossoms, on tall stems, are very mildew resistant, and the butterflies love them.
1:00 Honeysuckle, its proper name long forgotten, stretches up the tree. This one has dark pink and yellow blossoms.
12:00-9:00 Lily of the Valley will appear here soon; one of them has poked its way out of the ground about 1/2". Nothing can match their fragrance.
9:00-6:00 A variety of irises will brighten this niche.
Barley was planted in the sun in front of the garage, and we both listened as 2 hawks make wide circles around the house, calling loudly to each other.
When it comes to perfect days, I can't do anything about the weather, but there are things I can influence. I find encouragement from an old Puritan prayer:
May I speak each word as if my last word,
and walk each step as if my final one.
If my life should end today, let this be my best day.
