“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
“Here the sunflowers, there the hummingbird— equal seekers of sweetness.” —Mary Oliver suspended jewel iridescent wingbeats airborne ruby gem *. *. * Ruby-throated hummingbird hovers in place, one beauty in front of another • Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Bejeweled Splendor” 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
“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 are colors which cause each other to shine brilliantly, which form a couple which complete each other like man and woman.” — Vincent Van Gogh striking and vibrant complementary colors high stakes energy *. *. * Individually and together, foreground and background, leaves and blossoms stand out in the brilliance of each other • … More Complementary
“May a thread of comfort be woven through your difficult days.” — Mary Anne Radmacher layered with softness gentle as feathery down nature’s comforter *. *. * Delicate Clematis soften the weathered fence railing with their comforter of beauty • Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Comforter” haiku by Mary O’Connor © 2026
“There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature.” – Rachel Carson tree of life motif echoing nature’s rhythm reigniting hope *. *. * Set against the evergreen needles of pines, delicate blossoms capture the returning life and hope of springtime • Photo and “Healing” haiku by Mary O’Connor © 2026
Life Is Full of Sweet Spots 