Reflection Through The Seasons

HAPPY BIRTHDAY.........

Today is my dear friend Betty's birthday and I'm sure you'd like to join me in wishing her much happiness on this her special day.

'May the year ahead be enriched with good health and happiness dear friend'.

Together with Betty's birthday greetings, I thought I would include a few pictures recently taken in and around my garden......

First, may I ask....... If anyone can identify this plant I would be most grateful. All that its name tag stated was 'Primula' but I don't know which variety of the primula family it is. It has a cluster of lemon flowers on top of its long stem. If you click on the picture you'll see it in more detail.

I do love architectural plants and this phormium is a beauty, it helps take the starkness off the greenhouse too.

'Night Lights' is the fitting name of this beautiful rose. When the buds open the rose is yellow and then slowly, beautiful tinges of pink and peach develop.

This David Austin rose is named 'Golden Celebration'

The manger basket on our front garden wall has been quite delightful this summer.....

More pots and hanging baskets adorn the front steps up to the veranda.

......on the side of it too

The spiky leaves of the cordyline contrast nicely with the tree heather in the background......

One of the gravel and slate paths that wind through the garden. The hebe was in full flower when this picture was taken. I should cut it back, but I do like how it hangs over the path and softens the lines of the garden...... and I'm quite happy to duck as I pass by.......

A closer look at the hebe flowers in the sunshine. I certainly took this picture at a good time..... for sunny days have been very few and far between this summer......

Ferns are another architectural plant that I like. These are growing under a pergola and thrive in the shady light here.

I have developed a Fernery in another area that is deep in shade......

This rose is named 'Alec's Red'......

The 'Philandelphus' or sometimes called 'Mock Orange' flowers reward you with a delicious perfume in June or July, particularly on a warm summer evening.....

This rose 'Compassion' is one of my favourites its perfume is outstanding!

The veggie plot has its flowers too. The pretty light purple flowers of the chives give double value......

I'd like to take credit for growing this magnificent 'Dierama' or Angel's Fishing Rod but I can't. It grows in a garden next to the school where John works. Now the flowers have gone to seed I intend to ask if I may have a few. Its a beauty isn't it! Its worth clicking on this picture to see it in more detail........

Last but certainly not least..... We were so pleased to receive a box of grits that Betty sent a few weeks ago. One of the many southern dishes we were introduced to and enjoyed so much during our stay. Also included in our lovely parcel was a gift from Edward.... a book of studies in the 'Epistles of John'. Thank you both your gift are much appreciated and enjoyed.