countryhart

Day 220 Stop and Look 365   I think this looks magical. Some call it an invasive weed. It’s  wisteria. I guess too much of something can be overwhelming. But, how can you ignore the delicacy of these tiny lilac color flowers?Yes, it has taken over these trees. But, these flowers are providing food for the pollinators (the bees). They need our help. The sound resonating is like a lullaby, humming you to sleep. This place is stimulating for my imagination.  I am being transformed into a world of wonder and dreams. I think we need to leave nature alone. Not always try to control it. Admire the beauty it shares with us. Before, we lose it.

countryhart

Stop and Look 365Day 218     My yard is starting to come alive with blooms.  I really do enjoy looking at flowers. especially when they pop up from the ground.  My garden is a cottage garden because it is not formal and structured. To some, this might look like weeds. But they are flowers that bloom at different times throughout the summer. It starts off with daffodils,  then tulips and irises. Day lilies, black eye susan’s and phlox also start blooming in late July.  Oh, and my son plants over 50 zinnias every year for cuttings. The birds help too with planting crocuses, violets, and daffodils. This is a magical space for me. Do you have a place that makes you smile? If not, make one. It does not need to be grand. Just inspire and make you happy.

countryhart

Stop and Look 365               Day 217            These little flowers, called violets, can go unnoticed if you don’t  pay attention. You might even step on them. They are a very versatile flower. I have learned from my foraging that they can be used to make teas, jellies and dyes.  They also dress up any salads. There are 900 varieties around the world. The U.S. claims 77 varieties. I remember as a child, I would pick them to add to my crown of flowers. It’s a precious memory. What flowers give you warm memories. Maybe you should “stop and look” more closely to your surroundings. Now, go pick some violets and brew a cup of tea. Don’t forget to make a flower crown to wear while sipping your tea.

countryhart

Stop and Look 365 Day 214I have been absent for a while. I haven’t  taken my own advice, to take a moment and “Stop and Look.” I know at times it can be difficult. My soul has missed this time of reflection. It’s the beginning of spring and blooms are turning up all over. I enjoy searching for crocuses in my yard. They appear every year in some unusual places. But they remind me that the flowers are waking up and there will be a lot of beauty for me to “stop and look” and reflect.Remember to feed your soul with beauty and interesting images.