“Just living isn’t enough,” said the butterfly, “one must have sunshine, freedom and a little flower.” —Hans Christian Anderson beauty of petals drooping like long eyelashes blessed by butterfly *. *. * The spiky raised center of the Coneflower is the perfect landing spot of the Sachem Skipper, a tiny moth-like butterfly visitor to summer … More Petals
“It’s attention to detail that makes the difference between average and stunning.” — Francis Atterbury tracings of fine lines understatement of beauty fragility stuns *. *. * Delicate star-like Campanula Bellflowers are stunning purple favorites of gardeners and hummingbirds alike • Photo and “Fine Lines” haiku by Mary O’Connor © 2026
“There are moments when the elixir of life rises to such over-brimming splendor that the soul spills over.” —Henry Miller chalice filled with wine therapeutic elixir rimmed with sweet cream *. *. * With its artistic violet-purple throat surrounded by a creamy white outer rim, this showy bloom lives up to its Picasso Calla Lily … More Spilled Milk
“After every storm, there is a rainbow. If you have eyes, you will find it. If you have wisdom, you will create it.” — Shannon L. Alder after day’s darkness spanning the edges of earth pathway of promise *. *. * Painted in colors of red, yellow, and blue, the perfect rainbow arc sweeps the … More After the Storm
“Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson born from two colors passion of red peace of blue optimal spirit *. *. * Purple Hydrangea blossoms, blend of red and blue, emit feelings of energy and peacefulness to those who pause and breathe their spiritual vibes • Photo and “Spiritual Mix” … More Spiritual Blend
“We do not live an equal life, but one of contrasts and patchwork; now a little joy, then a sorrow, now a sin, then a generous or brave action.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson quilt of many hues patchwork of heirloom treasures color coded assets *. *. * Hydrangeas often display a patchwork of colors, including … More Patchwork
“Simplicity is the glory of expression.” — Walt Whitman simple elegance showcase of finest beauty picture of glory .*. *. * With simple layers of petals surrounding a prominent center of pollen-swollen stamen, Single Fernleaf Peonies are said by many to outshine their Double Fernleaf Peony cousins, whose classic multiple petal layers hide their center’s … More Simplicity
“There is a deep need in the world just now for guidance— almost any sort of spiritual guidance.” — Carl Jung bright beacon of light lights stony shapes of darkness sheltering guidance *. *. * Standing 65’ tall at the mouth of the Connecticut River, the octagonal Lynde Point Lighthouse guides navigators into Saybrook Harbor … More Guidance
“If we can bring our children understanding, comfort, and hopefulness when they need this kind of support, then they ae more likely to grow into adults who can find these resources within themselves later on.” — Fred Rogers waterside classroom essential life skill schooling put your right foot in *. * * Mama Canada Goose … More Schooling
“I’m looking forward to coming back, back to Earth, the landing, the views.” — Duane G. Carey wheels down for landing soaring flight now arriving impending touchdown *. *. * Wings outspread, feet outstretched, Great Egret comes in for a landing • Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Touchdown” haiku by Mary O’Connor © 2026
Life Is Full of Sweet Spots 