Judging from this neighborhood creek one would think we are flush with water. Not so. A drive out to the county reservoir revealed this. One does not really anticipate sand bars in the middle of a reservoir in March.

My jaunt was followed by a stop at the county water office where I was informed that in spite of days and days of continued unexpected rain we are still far short of our annual needs. We have 17″, not our usual 37″. Yikes!

Fortunately, as is so often the case, with the much needed falling rain comes much needed beauty, locked irrevocably arm in arm. The stuff of life is bursting around here!

First came the red camellia, which actually did open at Christmastime, as it was advertised to do. They are rather on the wane, but still flourishing sufficiently to offer us this treasure.

Next the violets, lending their quaint and subtle charm, began springing up in convenient and not so convenient abundance, livening large areas of the front lawn as well as brightening spots between the flagstone, where they were actually “planted.”

The faithful borage has surfaced on and off all winter, enduring and endearing except under the harshest days, meaning an occasional snow flurry, which would put off almost anything but the chard.

In a whoosh, in a heartbeat, overnight, like magic, the plum tree opened its lovely white blossoms and, in spite of the torrent of rain, wafted throughout the back garden, reminding creatures large and small that spring was ever so near.

Resonating with the call, the quince followed suit.

But, alas, dear readers, if I were to portray a perfect world for you, a world where the rivers are filling and all is in blossom, I would not be true. No. For among the myriad blossoms and the rushing waters and teeny droplets promising turning us back from the brink of draught, nay, because of the turning of the tide, comes this. Yes, it does.

Oh, woe is me.

But turn your eyes, turn your eyes, dear reader, towards beauty. Yes! Here!

Oh, dear. Oh, dear. Another! What little beastie can be doing this in my backyard? What little beastie, indeed?

Would it be he?

Mischievous as my boy Conner is, probably not.

But what’s this emerging from under the bushes?

I think we have our little beastie, don’t you? What a girl! Ruby, take a bath! Now!

No shame whatsoever. Just more fun for her. Now where were we? Aw, yes, I was about to take you to see the magnolias! Beauty in abundance!

Had enough? Good! I thought not. I really must show you the camellias, which are very pretty at the moment! Delicate white…

Cheerie red…

And perfect pink…

From the bottom of my heart I give thanks for the glorious rain, for the splendid, fragrant flowers and the magnificent beauty with which they graces our lives, and for all the beasties great and small.

Love and garden kisses,
Kathryn xoxo

Posted on March 2nd, 2009 by Kathryn
Filed under: Plants