This has been quite the month, quite the year, for irises. They have bloomed with a profusion that gladdens the heart of this iris lover. But now the gardens are down to the last two blossoms. These lovelies will come again next year, I know, but although I cherish all the flowers in my garden, irises are my special darlings, and it always makes me sad to see them go. That is the way it is with flowers, of course, and perhaps that’s why we love these ephemeral beauties so much. They are both permanent and not permanent, coming up year after year—if we are lucky—and only lasting for a short time.
Much spiritual practice, however unintentional, can come from tending a flower garden.
Notes From the Hinterland 
Love your garden art and your beautiful Iris. I always consider perennials to be friends who visit from spring to fall. I miss them during the winter and spend the spring anticipating their return visit. 🙂 I’m heading to the Shaker Village in Maine tomorrow for a class. 🙂
Thanks, Judy! Perennials are indeed beautiful visitors. Hope your class is a good one.
Mine are gone, too. Now the peonies have bloomed, and their scent is devine. 🙂
Yes, the next blooming flowers are a great comfort.
I feel the same way about my tulips.
I was actually thinking about you and your tulips as I bid farewell to my irises.
It is a spiritual practice, isn’t it? Learning to let go is ongoing! (I’m lamenting the last of my peonies, but I am SO grateful that I get to enjoy them while I can!)
Yes, sad and grateful at the same time.
yes, yes!