We’ve had a couple of days of constant and sometimes heavy rainfall. Although it’s wonderful for the lawns it’s also pelted some of the flowers. We have a beautiful John Cabot climbing rose in the backyard that has been full of blooms. With the weight of the rain it has pulled some of the canes so far forward that the blooms have been touching the lawn. Those blooms that were past their prime have been knocked down and have created a carpet of petals on the lawn under the bush. At first I wanted to clean up all the petals, and yet upon a closer look I realized that they were truly quite lovely as they lay scattered about. Sometimes the “untidiness” of nature has lessons for us all to learn.
Minnesota
Peonies and roses of late spring
Our spring garden is in full bloom right now — a delight to all the senses! We have three peony bushes that are all beautiful. The white bush is one we purchased here in Minnesota, but the two pink bushes are from my parents’ yard in Overland Park, Kansas. It’s always a treat to see it bloom and think of them. Our roses are also in full bloom, making for a wonderful and delightful compliment in this arrangement. The John Cabot roses in this image are from a large climbing bush in the backyard. Our early spring and summer weather has the gardens about two weeks ahead of their normal schedule, but I’m not hearing anyone complaining. It is such a treat to enjoy the blooms not only outside in the garden, but to be able to bring them inside to brighten our home.
Earning my fishing license
Yes, I’m finally earning my Minnesota fishing license this year. Last week we were catching northern pike on a northern Minnesota lake. Today we ventured south of the Twin Cities in search of bullheads. Prior to this I don’t believe I’d even heard of bullheads let alone known what they looked like. As it turns out, they’re a bottom feeder similar to catfish. Although they aren’t very big I’ve learned they do like to flop around a lot. On a beautiful sunny early afternoon we headed out on the lake, accompanied by pelicans circling overhead. We paddled our canoe to a likely area for bullhead success. Within a few minutes we had our first bullhead on the line, followed by another and another. Our success was measured by a total of 11 bullheads. I have yet to eat one so I can’t attest to their flavor, but I can say that the fishing adventure was great fun and a delightful way to spend time in the outdoors on a lovely lake.
It was a dark & stormy night
We headed north this weekend for a little fishing trip — one that was full of delights and surprises. We were tent camping and were fortunate to find a beautiful campsite on the shore of a northern lake. As we drifted to sleep last night we were serenaded by a chorus of frogs and loons. And yet in the middle of the night a storm moved through, bringing lightning and thunder, wind, and rain. I lay wide awake in the tent, imagining a worst-case scenario and worrying about what we would do. Luckily the worst of the dark & stormy night was off in the distance and what I was imagining didn’t develop. When we awoke this morning we were greeted with summer temperatures, a calm lake, and clearing skies. Today was beautiful for fishing. With blue skies, white clouds, clear water, and the serenade of red-winged blackbirds and loons, we were successful in catching a “slug” of northern pike. After having lived here in Minnesota for almost four years I’m appreciating even more the specialness and richness of our 10,000 plus lakes.
Spring passages
In amongst the hustle and bustle of the past week I noticed the whitest of lilac blossoms peeking out amongst the green leaves. Whereas the purple lilacs are now past their bloom, the white lilac is at its peak. So similar yet so different, not only in its blossom but also its scent. Our house has been filled with the fragrance of spring, although that too will be coming to a close as the last of the lilacs fade away.
We celebrated another ritual of spring this past weekend — a quick trip to the Kansas City area to attend my niece Alyssa’s high school graduation. With her high school studies, sports, dance, and other activities behind her, she’s now looking forward to attending college in the fall. Congratulations, Alyssa — you’ve made us all proud and we’re excited for you and your future endeavors.
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