Yes, I know I mentioned daffodils in my last newsletter. But many of my readers are in cooler climates and their spring flowers are still popping up. Few flowers remind me more of Spring than the daffodil. Below is a poem by William Wordsworth, the first of four stanzas, along with a birthday card I designed. Enjoy:
Daffodils
I wandered lonely
As a cloud
That floats on high
O’er vales and hills.
When all at once
I saw a crowd.
A host of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake,
Beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing
In the breeze.
—William Wordsworth.
It was the first week of March and year two at Gibb’s Gardens. The branches of most trees were naked but showing signs of budding. One towering tulip tree with its branches draped over the trail held a profusion of blossoms with the azure sky peeking through the suspended bouquet.
We were two weeks earlier than last year. It made a difference in the numbers and varieties of fleeting blooms. The hillsides were a myriad of green hues weeks before. Spring had sprinkled the meadows with yellow, cream, and white daffodils. In shaded areas, their golden heads stared at the ground. Those who enjoyed the rays of the sun stretched their faces upward to kiss the sky. I discovered my favorite variety.
Throughout the trails of Gibb’s Gardens, guests delight in custom-designed sculptures. Jim Gibb’s garden dream included creating a Grandchildren’s Sculpture Garden.
The beauty of such grand gardens sobers me and my wandering mind. I can think of no better way to appreciate the moment at hand than to be in a field of flowers.
We are having glimpses of summer in Georgia and it is a glorious time to be out of doors. The areas I cleared at the forest’s edge offered up delightful surprises this year. Wild strawberries produced a few small berries and violets with heart-shaped leaves and asymmetrical blooms had previously been hidden in the underbrush of the woods. Red raspberry bushes displayed luscious blossoms but only the tiniest of berries showed themselves.
Poison ivy and poison oak have overtaken several 50-60′ tall trees in the woods behind the cottage. Vines cling to the trunks and branches. I cannot tell you how often in my lifetime I have had poison ivy and poison oak, suffice it to say – a lot. One morning as I was weeding and it hit me . . . an idea for ridding a couple of trees of the pesky poisonous vines.
Jeans, a long-sleeved shirt, a mask, sunglasses, hat, leather gardening gloves, and my tall polka-dot boots were necessities. I was on a mission. I grabbed my tree trimmers and back to the woods I went. It didn’t take long. I cut the half-inch diameter vines at ground level around two trees and headed back to the cottage for another shower.
Researching is part of the fun I find in my work and caring for my yard. Did you know that birds and squirrels feed on the berries of those poisonous vines – without side-effects? Not to worry, there are plenty of ivy-covered trees in the woods for them to feast on next winter.
Happily, the lily-of-the-valley I planted last year graced me with delicate petite blossoms. Oh, joy! Bringing those itty-bitty beauties indoors made me feel more grounded and peaceful. They were so small they fit in a shot glass. Sometimes it just doesn’t take much to improve my day.
Did you ever wish you could have more time at home? I know I’ve been guilty of that. In the past few months, I’ve learned to be more descriptive of my wishes. (Preferably more time of my choosing, to be at home.) During this collective timeout, I hope you and your family are safe and well.
Thank you for allowing me to share my art, my thoughts, and my creative life from the cottage. Wishing you kindness, humility, and compassion.
A little note:
Crystal Organic Farm
I recently found a Georgia treasure. Crystal Organic Farm, located in Newborn, Georgia. A lovely thirteen-mile drive through the countryside from Covington. It is one hundred and seventy-five acres of USDA certified organic land. The farm is one of the oldest certified organic farms in the Southeast.
During the pandemic the restaurants they serviced closed. As a way of compensating they increased their farm box program. The farm is located at 425 N Johnston St, Newborn, GA 30056.
It’s easy to order and pay online or they accept cash or checks. After ordering online you’ll receive an email receipt with a pickup date of your choice. I usually pick up on Friday afternoon. If you live in Corrydell I am happy to pick up your order and deliver it to you, my # (719-260-1440). To place your order, go to https://www.crystalorganicfarm.com
I am in no way compensated for mentioning Crystal Organic Farm. I’m thrilled with the freshness and variety of produce and eggs. Of course, the availability of fresh produce is only that which is in season at the time of your order.
From: Joan M
Date: Thu, Jun 04, 2020 9:50 am
To: Mickey Baxter-Spade
I loved your newsletter. You are so talented!
Joan
Thanks so much Joan! I appreciate you taking the time to comment. See you at the gazebo.
From: “Elizabeth C
Date: Thu, Jun 04, 2020 10:41 am
To: Mickey Baxter-Spade
Hi, Mickey!
What a treat to get this today and think of you enjoying that plethora of floral beauty! Daffodils are among my favorites, and I loved the unique variety you pegged as your favorite. I’m so happy to be reminded of your gorgeous cards and will be ordering some soon.
I hope your health is good, your aches and pains minimal, and your ability to express your creativity myriad!
Love, Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth!
It’s always a treat to hear from you, as well. It is inconceivable to me there could be anyone who doesn’t enjoy seeing the early blooming daffodil? I hope you and John are enjoying your time in isolation, although, I’m sure you are ready, like everyone else, for this all to be over. I really haven’t minded my time at home but I do very much miss the meals and laughter with my grandson. I’m looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you for writing.
From: Ruby L
Date: Thu, Jun 04, 2020 3:11 pm
To: Mickey Baxter-Spade
Thank you for sharing.
Hi Ruby, thank you so much for commenting.
From: Elaine G
Date: Thu, Jun 04, 2020 3:33 pm
To: Mickey Baxter-Spade
Lovely Mickey: ! Our Daffodils are done with after cold, snow and then heat. But its very green here in Omaha, planting more Clematis in my rear yard. and w Trees growing, more shade than sun so adding shade plants. There is a bright red heurcharas plant ( coral bells) for shade so that will liven up the area.
Enjoy the flowers. Very lovely Daffodil card! Nice Work!
Elaine
Hi Elaine, thanks for sharing your landscaping project. It sounds lovely. I’ve always like coral bells but I’ve never planted them. You’ll have to send pics. /thanks for reading my newsletter and for commenting.
All the best with you back yard!
From: DeAnne D
Date: Thu, Jun 04, 2020 5:22 pm
To: Mickey Baxter-Spade
Dearest Mickey Mickalous,
You had me at ‘at the forest’s edge’ and ‘cottage’! I was off into a fantasyland. Your immediate area plus Gibb’s Gardens sound like a heaven just made for you, your camera, and your newsletter. AND I want to eat from Crystal Organic Farm. I was too late to order a CSA this year. Being homebound gave other people the idea faster, but it’s good business for the farms.
Barbara B. and I have met for lunch twice recently at the European Cafe (formerly Ma Maison) a couple of blocks up from my apartment. Outer patio under the trees, just perfect. Wish you were joining us.
Wishing you the best and basketsful of my love,
De
Hellooooo De, I always look forward to your writing. How happy I am that you got to visit a fantasyland while you were reading. It’s taken a while but I believe I have settled into the South. Thanks to smartphones I am seldom without a camera.
Oh, how I would love to be on the patio under the trees having lunch with you and Barbara, again! La Maison was where Bob and I met and enjoyed a three-hour dinner. Thanks for the memories.
My best to you always
From: Kate H
Date: Thu, Jun 04, 2020 8:02 pm
To: Mickey Baxter-Spade
Oh my goodness Mickey…Your Newsletter is SO refreshing…
Your artwork and writing are SO inspiring…your talent reflects your heart, your soul and your mind…
I am SO thankful for our friendship and our memories…
Thank you, Beautiful Lady…
Love and Blessings…
~~~Kate~~~
Hi Kate, not a week goes by that you and the boys don’t cross my mind. Your words are humbling and appreciated. I cherish those memories of traveling to Black Forest and our lunches. So glad I got to spend time with you while I was in the Springs last year. That too, added to the joy of our friendship.
Blessings to you always.
From: Mike F
Date: Fri, Jun 05, 2020 3:17 am
To: Mickey Baxter-Spade
Always good to hear from you, great photo work, and I, as always love your artwork and poetic linkage.
You take care, stay safe, and ‘keep on painting’ and smiling.
Kindest Regards,
Michael L. Frewer
Thanks, Mike! I always enjoy your stopping by commenting. It always brings a smile to my face because it reminds me of the great times the four of us had playing cards and Trivial Pursuit so many years ago. Fun times.
Stay well and don’t work so hard!
From: SUSAN Y
Date: Fri, Jun 05, 2020 7:46 am
To: Mickey Baxter-Spade
Hi Mickey!
Thanks, for the beautiful message and pictures!
The world needs more of this type of message instead of violence and hatred.
God is Love,
Peace be with You,
Susie
Thank you for commenting Susie. I’m glad you found joy in reading the newsletter.
Doubtful there is anyone in our country who isn’t saddened by the virus, unrest, and violence happening. As a country, we have been through a lot. If there is one thing I have learned, this too will pass. We need to pray that the outcome will benefit everyone’s future.
Blessing to you, Susie
From: Barbara W
Date: Sat, Jun 06, 2020 10:53 am
To: Blog_–_Mickey_Baxter-Spade
I was enjoying your flower-filled newsletter … then it turned to lusting for those radishes.
I’ll just pretend you & I are shaking our salt shaker of them & bunching.
Bunching with you will return me to enjoying.
Barb
Hi Barb, you’re a hoot! I wish you were closer. It would be fun to have a few radishes together. Thanks for reading my newsletter and for the fun comments. Hope you and Carey are doing well!!!!!!!
From: Cheri E
Date: Sun, Jun 07, 2020 1:47 pm
To: Blog_–_Mickey_Baxter-Spade
as always, Mickey, you take me away for a while in your blogs. what a nice way to spend time with you. I am glad that you are enjoying Georgia.
Cheri
Hello Cheri, such nice words. I have fond memories of spending time with you and Sue visiting and so happy I met you at eWomen luncheons! Thank you for reading and commenting.
Mickey