Tiptoe through the parrot tulips. . . . . . .

In a recent post I shared these lovely tulips purchased a week ago from Trader Joe's.

 I must say they really have been beautiful, bringing happy, strong color to my dining room.

On Thursday, I trimmed the stems which had grown much longer as tulips

 do once in water. As the blooms were full-blown and hanging down, I used

 a taller vase, and then added a fresh bunch of "wildflowers", also from Trader Joe's.

I never really 'arrange' flowers. I don't especially like formal displays, much

 prefer loose, casual, natural beauties from nature, placed in lovely yet simple

 shaped containers which don't detract from the flowers.

Next time I'll share my flowers for this new week - I made a few changes
 yesterday using blooms from my garden.

When life is full of disappointments, bad news, and sadness, flowers

 certainly brighten the day. . . . . a little bit anyway!

is for AZALEA

Before I even thought about a post for today I headed into the garden early with my coffee mug. . . . .and of course a camera.  A close to perfect Sunday morning. Yesterday's early rain had left the azalea blooms drooping and sad looking. Later the sun shone all afternoon and by evening they had perked up with much of the pollen coating washed away. 

This morning. . . . . . . the garden is glorious. Clean, fresh, dressed for the day in full Spring gowns of various shades of pink. The small area we enjoy behind the cottage has become a joyful woodland. Birds are busy, squirrels too. This is one of those mornings when one really feels thankful for the small things in life, and the many blessings we have.

I really hope you enjoy this little stroll through

 my small cottage garden today.

Clambering up the arbor, a story continues . . . . . . .

The flowers are beautiful right now - seemingly a deeper blue than in other years.

My one and only wisteria, dancing in the Spring breezes, the blooms so fragrant.

The leaves are now opening. . . . .eventually they will envelope the little arbor we built

 for this once very tiny potted plant which I inherited from a long ago dear friend.

Note the thick pollen covering the roof of the gazebo - sneezing has reached

 its peek here in the southeast!

Flowers on a newly planted wisteria can be a long time coming, often up

to seven years!  Patience definitely is a virtue, followed by pruning

to keep this wandering, often invasive, vine in check.

HERE is the story of my wisteria, a most beautiful memory

 of my special friend Julie. 

If you are a gardener you've probably received pass-along plants from

 friends and neighbors. 

I'd love to hear stories of your special gifts which are popping up in this new

 and lovely season of the year.