Summer came to our area these past few days. Temperatures in the 80's are not spring-like. But I enjoyed the gentle breezes and the warm rays of sun that were missed this past winter. My mind enjoyed...that is. By the end of the day, my body was not as thrilled.
My gardens have been neglected for years with only sporadic care and attention. Days, weeks, and even months went by without me being able to tend them. As I have mentioned, fibromyalgia has robbed me of the ability to take pleasure in the nurturing of my gardens. But because of LYRICA-a truly miracle drug for me, I am able to garden once again! Now when my body aches and my back won't straighten up, it is from hours spent raking, digging, pulling weeds and planting flowers. Just like any other gardener who has spent the winter indoors not using those gardening muscles. I'm in heaven!
With the warmth, blooms have opened and the bees have come. The dwarf ornamental cherry tree, that only a few days ago was beginning to bud, is now buzzing. Last year I remember only a few honey bees and mostly saw the black and yellow kind. Cheryl, at Wildlife Sanctuary is a bee's best friend. She plants for bees, provides bees with shelter in the winter(Mason Bees) and is spreading the word about the world wide population decline of bees. So Cheryl, this bee above is for you!
The lilacs are just starting to pop. Both bushes, the common(I think) and the darker one are full of buds. Carol at May Dreams Gardens has predicted a 'spectacular' year for them. I hope so. Last year we lost most of them to a late killing frost.
This is a not-very-good picture of my wisteria, which is also full of buds. But what I am trying to show is the bird nest in the middle towards the back.
A dove! I was trying to sneak around the back of the garage to get a picture without disturbing her, but she flew right after this shot. I will watch from afar now.
This poor climbing rose has given it's all and it is time to let it go to that great rose garden in the sky. Once upon a time it was glorious in it's width and height and it bloomed with abandon. That was its downfall I'm afraid. My dad loved it and wanted a start for his deck. So, a couple of years ago, he tried to divide it...with a spade. Do I have to explain any further?
Yesterday, I replaced it with a climbing Queen Elizabeth. I promise, no more dividing!
I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. Me, I am going to let my garden-weary-body rest a couple of days and help my husband celebrate his birthday!
