The bright scarlet tulips with yellow and black centers were so vibrant when first put into the crystal vase; now the petals have opened fully and are slowly drying. One petal has fallen. The colors have paled, scarlet into dusty red with mauve edges. The centers are now charcoal with light translucent yellow. The shapes are bowed and bent. Like me, outer form changing and fading, inner core quieting. I love my garden and its flower transformations that reflect my own.
A form of synesthesia enriches my life. I see and feel at the same time, which is delightful in nature. I am keenly aware of the garden’s many textures as I see the multitude of colors and shapes in each bed. The trees touch me across space and are interesting not only to my eyes. An example of my body’s full response is how my body curves relate to the peony’s lush fullness.
Though I have had Multiple Sclerosis for more than forty-seven years, until 2015 it was remitting relapsing. It is now secondary progressive, with basically no breaks anymore, though the progression has slowed. My stamina and endurance are low, as are my flexibility and strength. I used to work for long hours in the garden, but now I work in twenty-to-thirty-minute segments. I have gardened since childhood, studied gardening, and know how to make the best use of time.
I also need and accept help in the garden. My husband, Bob, nurtures our tomatoes. As we approach the fruit laden bushes the scent is enticing. A juicy burst of sweet tang fills each bite. Nothing like the taste of freshly grown, vine ripened tomatoes.
How we love to watch the multitude of birds that flit, nest, feed, and bathe in our garden. Our bird bath is rough stone nestled in a big patch of lavender. Our yard is full of twitters, tweets, and the “coo-coo” of doves. Even the crow’s “caw-caw” is pleasing in our quiet neighborhood.
This morning I hobble across the damp lawn, my bare feet soaking in soft moisture. My hand grips a small pruner. What to cut this time? I snip stems of blue delphinium, yellow and peach roses, white snapdragons, and three coral lily stems. After arranging them in a ceramic vase, I sit with a fresh cup of coffee, savor its richness as I admire the bouquet across the room.
Happy moment!
Author: Wendy Lamson Collier
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