It's not really spring till . . .
. . . I've received my bouquet of fully opened lilacs.
I don't remember lilacs in California or Texas. Magnolias and azaleas, yes. Lilacs, no. Nor do I recall the showiness of seasons changing and nature turning colors.
But Minnesota introduced me to the intoxicating fragrance of lilacs--and the exquisite anticipation of them.
To draw the attention of my children to this season opener, I struck a deal with them some 20 years ago.
The first one to bring me a bouquet of lilacs (and they had to be fully blossomed--no cheating) earned $5. Every year.
They're now 27, 25, and 22 -- and not one year has passed without someone collecting on the deal. Sign of the times? Hooked on tradition? Love?
Today, my daughter came through the front door with a fistful of lilacs and an itch for her prize.
"I don't think I've won in 3 years!" she said, beaming.
Little does she know how much more she has really won.
Happy "Real" Spring!
Image by hessiebell (can you smell 'em?)
Comments
The other night, with a full hazy moon and high humidity, I left a nursing home and walked into air heavy with the aroma of lilacs. It was wonderful, but the funny thing was that even though I couldn't see any lilacs, I sure could smell them. Mine are in full bloom right now and so are the lily of the valley plants. Even though they're poisonous, I picked a handful today.
Jane
What a great tradition.
My spring loves are the apple blossoms. Yesterday I picked some up off the ground and stuck them behind my ear. I'm sure it looked ridiculous but I carried the scent with me for the rest of my walk with "the beast."
i have a friend at work who
leaves lilies of the valley
on my desk each may
when they bloom.
i look forwaard but am
always surprised.
Alas, my lilacs did not bloom this year. I'm very sad. Don't know what happened. But at least I have the fragrance of honeysuckle.
Jane: Sigh...nice to know lilacs are blooming all over the place.
Ellen: Do you have gardenias? Oh my gosh do I love those, too! Had them in my wedding bouquet. They're so delicate.
Jen: I love the image of you walking around with apple blossoms behind our ears. Grand idea. I'll have to try that myself.
DBSO: Funny how flowers surprise and delight. This place is just decked out in lilacs right now. If only they lasted longer!
Pyzahn: So sorry to hear about your lilacs not blooming this year. I truly don't know how ours manage to put forth anything...they're in such a shady spot. Thanks for you comments about our family. I feel so blessed.
Grace: I wonder if UM Extension might have some ideas about why your old Lilacs are losing branches? I was thinking about planting a new generation, too. But never thought to call them by that name. Love it.
Thanks for dropping by, all!