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October 6, 2016 By Teri Speight Leave a Comment

Abundance in this Season

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John Boggan (DC Tropics), Traci Blevins (PlantsMap) and our very own Kathy Jentz (Washington Gardener Magazine)….gotta have that photo op

Abundance, abundant or abundantia, this season – known as Autumn – has offered up an abundance of blessings……and it’s just getting started!!! I am not quite sure where to begin, but I want to highlight a few things.  I met so many wonderful people at the Garden Writers and Communicators Conference, I am still addressing cards, just to say how happy I was to meet a fellow Steward of the Land. So many moments to remember that linger in my mind.

Drawn to a table with books, of course, I met a very nice young man from Nature Hills Nursery – Chris Link. We were both admiring a book on Trees.  As our conversation gathered steam, we shared many thoughts from what his company offered (great mail order resource of QUALITY plant material from trees to vines).  I had to check them out since they are family owned – gotta LOVE a small business!!! I understand that they have an amazing selection of popular varieties…..and a Buzz Magenta Buddleia.   I am excited about this resource and look forward to utilizing them in the very near future.  I am also noticing that they  have plant pads…..no longer is there an excuse to not at least TRY to garden with confidence!!!  Check out their website – Nature Hills  If we support the small business or grower, we support community. Not only have I met a new friend, I am also happy that Chris calmed my fears about SEO trials and tribulations!!!

Chris Link and Teri Speight making time for a photo op during the trade show!

Chris Link and Teri Speight making time for a photo op during the trade show!

Visiting the State Botanical Garden of Georgia located  in Athens, Georgia was such a grand opportunity! The gardens were absolutely divine and it is definitely a MUST SEE whenever  you are in Athens,Georgia.  The gardens were well maintained and simply alive with color, shape and form.  The evidence of life was quite evident not only by the presence of pollinators, but by the sound of happy Garden Writers clicking away to save memories of an awesome visit.  wp-image-258088350jpg.jpgThank you State Botanic Garden of Georgia for the goodie bag and the native plants.  I can’t wait til Spring to have that memory included in the beauty at the Cottage!!

The abundant visions of beauty that I have experienced this season, leave me with dreams filled with inspiration from Chihuly in the gardens of the Atlanta Botanic Garden…wp-image-2004729035jpg.jpg

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Tours of private hoes throughout Atlanta, with signature touches of art as well…wp-image-1251522600jpg.jpg

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The abundance of beauty that I have experienced this season continues locally as well.  As we embrace the spirit of gardening and reconnect with the earth, I want to give a huge virtual hug to W. Atlee Burpee and The Burpee Foundation which  has established a $2.5 Million gift to permanently maintain, develop and fund the White House Vegetable Garden.  It will be gifted to the National Park Foundation which is the entity that maintains the White house Garden.  Thank you Mrs. Obama for your Let’s Move Campaign and sharing how we can be motivated to move just by growing something good and edible!!! HOW AWESOME IS THIS????  To find out more click here White House Kitchen Garden or Let’s Move I am grinning from ear to ear as I watch this reconnection with the earth happen organically…so to speak!!  To find out more about an awesome event happening today, click here White House.

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The Rose Garden at Hillwood Museum and Gardens

How does the news just keep getting better???  There is a terrific exhibit at one of my favorite places Hillwood. Think about this – 15 foot tall, fiberglass sculptures recreate “The Seasons”, originally conceived by Giuseppe Arcimboldo.  Philip Haas has recreated this well-known theme in a way never before interpreted on such a large-scale.  It is in place in the gardens through March 31, 2017.  In case you did not know, Hillwood is open most of the year and if you are a member (like me) there are all types of special events that you receive notification of in advance.  I am looking forward to seeing this exhibit as the leaves gingerly grace the landscape…..not to mention the abundant leaf color that will add a colorful backdrop to an already gorgeous landscape. Did I mention the Fall Tours are given at 10:30 am and 12:30 pm until Sunday, November 13, 2016. Perhaps I will see you there??

There is a lot going on this Fall and it all embraces the abundant joy that can be found in the garden.  If time does not allow you to add one more thing to your Fall plans – then plan ahead.

If you are a Garden Blogger, you might want to attend the first Garden Bloggers Fling in the DMV!!!  Imagine that.  Never heard of a Garden Bloggers Fling??  Click here Garden Bloggers Fling 2017 to find out more.  It is going to be the event of the season!!! Thank you Tammy for bringing the world to us as we have some beautiful gardens to share!!

SAVE THE DATE

Capital Region Garden Bloggers Fling

June 22-25, 2017

You see, the abundance of all things beautiful in this season and as we look forward to the coming seasons, just has me filled with joy and absolutely full.  Full of hope that more people will embrace gardening, nature and all things beautiful.

Join us as we kick up our legs and embrace the abundance of activities that are available to us .

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Kathy Jentz and I starting the party at the Garden Writers Conference…

I hope to see and interact with you in a garden soon……..

Always Mentally In The Garden,
Teri
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The Flower Show in my Mind was appreciating Nigell The Flower Show in my Mind was appreciating Nigella yesterday. A quiet flower until you become entranced with the bloom. Once you notice it, the realization of the term quiet fireworks takes on a whole new meaning. It is like a sparkler, lighting up anything you add to the vase. 
What flower adds sparkle to your life?
#theflowershowinmymind #allthingsbeautiful #allaboutthegarden #alwaysthinkingaboutthegardenlife #nigella #flowers #springinspiration
The Philadelphia Flower Show is less than 20 days The Philadelphia Flower Show is less than 20 days away and I am feeling this year's theme - In Full Bloom. This arrangement from the Flower Show in my Mind  brought tears to my eyes. A flood of memories flooded my minds eye of my Fredericksburg garden,  with the antique rises, Nigella, Foxgloves and more. I tried to make sure my daughters appreciated the beauty of the garden, as well as how to appreciate a bouquet.  This bouquet has a bit of new blooms,  a few borrowed blooms from last week's bouquet..but nothing blue. I do miss my Virginia garden. I am in love with my Maryland Cottage garden...and I look forward to growing more and expanding the beauty that surrounds me.
When memories of the past can restore the soul  and heal the heart, it is truly a moment to remember. I am In Full Bloom.
Do you have 'In Full Bloom' moments? Are you going to The Flower Show?
#allthingsbeautiful #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #allaboutthegardenlife #theflowershowinmymind #theflowershow #phs
Goodness from the garden is always a good thing. P Goodness from the garden is always a good thing. Pass the peas my way anytime because they are beneficial to the body.How do you say Vitamin K - good for 'dem bones'. Minimal calories in a cup, about 35.. .depending on the size of your cup or bowl. These babies allow you to enjoy a dose of fiber and a protein boost as well. Viamin C, B-complex, foliate... what is not to love?
I am going to enjoy this bowl of bodacious goodness for breakfast. Better than a bowl of cereal and no milk required.
Are you beginning to enjoy the fruits of your garden labor? Is healthy eating a part of your 'why', when gardening?
#allthingsbeautiful #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #allaboutthegardenlife #passthepeas #gardengoodness #gardeningforhealth #sweetpeas #springbliss
Remember that vase I purchased from the Norfolk Bo Remember that vase I purchased from the Norfolk Botanic Garden? Well, it was worthy of some peony love. These beauties were left over from last week's Flower Show in my Mind.  They remind me of how brief those special moments in life are and how we must capture them. Spending time with @mermaidcityflowers  and @taminthegarden will always be meaningful to me as a magical, unexpected moment in 2022.
Have you captured a moment lately? #allthingsbeautiful #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #allaboutthegardenlife #springinspiration #springbloomers #gardenbliss #flowerfriends
We donned our boots to let Precious know it was ok We donned our boots to let Precious know it was ok to go for a walk in the rain. Her reaction was simply not what we expected...takes of Teri, Barbie and Precious...tbc
After collecting as many peonies as possible befor After collecting as many peonies as possible before the storm, energizing means nibbling on some garlic and oregano crostini dipped in spicy garlic hummus from @nidodc of course. It's always a great idea to be prepared for any storm that comes our way. I think I will have a peony party.
Do you have storm rations? Do you have bases for an abundance of blooms?
#allthingsbeautiful #allaboutthegardenlife #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #stormsdontstealmyjoy #gardenbliss #nidodc #hummus #seasonalbliss #blooms #peonyparty
Gardening...should be like medicine. Best taken in Gardening...should be like medicine. Best taken in small doses, know when to pause , and realize when it's time for a break.
It is a great afternoon to step back, sip, and reflect on an unexpected year of adventure. Thanks @nidodc for a scrumptious bottle of Secondome vino bianco and the cutest bottle opener ever.
Do you make time to pause in the garden, or is it all work? 
Reassess if you think the garden is all work and no play! #allaboutthegarden #allaboutthegardenlife #allthingsbeautiful #nidodc #ambassadorofallthingsbeautiful #pausinginthemoment
It is a Disco and Dirt kind of morning! Have a gre It is a Disco and Dirt kind of morning! Have a great day!
What an exciting year of books! I received a copy What an exciting year of books! I received a copy of Cut Flowers by Celestina Robertson in England. I cannot wait to delve in a see this perspective on growing. 
It's amazing to see other people who look like me growing flowers and creating beauty in such an unexpected way. 
Just like in my book, Black Flora, we grow from our heart, reflect from our genetic memory, and most people aren't  even aware of all we are capable of. We are not a monolith by any means.
Looking forward to this Cel! 
#wegrowmorethancollards #webeokinthegarden #allthingsbeautiful #allaboutthegardenlife #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #blackspecialtycutflowergrowers #africanamericansinthegarden
Sometimes a flower simply speaks for itself. Peony Sometimes a flower simply speaks for itself. Peony. At the Flower Show in my Mind,  the peony unfurls her petals, curtsies, and boldly declares, "It's showtime"
What a way to start the day. Did your peony blossoms grace the ground after the rain? Consider creative ways of staking them or growing a sturdy plant - like miniature boxwoods or Germander - so next year the blooms have something to lean on. Statement plantsxlije the peony make great accents in The Urban Garden...right @wdcgardener ?
When you think about it, it has to be tiring knowing you have to stand tall, so all can appreciate your beauty.
Do you love peonies as much as I do?
#allthingsbeautiful #allaboutthegardenlife #allaboutthatgardenfeeling #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #peonybliss #springinspiration #springbloomers #seasonalbliss #peonylover
Iris Sibirica. It's a perennial worth remembering. Iris Sibirica. It's a perennial worth remembering. The slender leaves caress a slightly taller stem which holds a beautiful bloom. Great for the low maintenance garden, once established. Deer walk right by it, it is easily divided to showcase in other parts of the garden, and it is a great cut flower.
As this season continues to evolve, are you enjoying the gifts in the garden?
Remember to pause as you garden, create time to enjoy your greenspace. The garden should be a place where one can (as my Dad would say) just 'be'.
#allthingsbeautiful #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #allaboutthegardenlife #iris #springbloomers #springbliss #pausinginthemoment #gardenbliss
I love reflecting on my life garden of experiences I love reflecting on my life garden of experiences. Like a garden, I can reflect on the annual moments and the perennial memories. Patsy Cline is a perennial and so is Naomi Judd. I know...doesn't seem like it would be my taste.
When I learned about her struggles over the years,  it saddened me. Her death caught me off guard. I went into my kitchen and pulled her cookbook out of my frequently used stash. You see, I used this cookbook a lot when my girls were growing up and even now for some simple good food recipes. Country cookbooks can sometimes satisfy an appetite just by reading them.
I sat and reminisced about some songs she sang, how she adored her daughters and how she was honest about her mental health struggles.
When I opened this cookbook, the pages most worn were 96/97 - Uncommon Remedies for Common Concerns. Naomi shared remedies from the plant world like Chamomile for indigestion or Parsley for bad breath. It was an area I referenced when I was a stay at home Mom. It is a book I use even now from time to time.
When her daughter found it necessary to share this to the public, I cried for her. 
How many people are struggling and have no one to turn to? As we navigate life as we know it today, how many are not sure how to keep it together? How many people know the number to the Suicide Hotline or know how to respond when a friend or family member is in trouble?

Keep the National Suicide Hotline number handy, 1-800- 273- 8255. You never know when you might need it.

I mourn for the family Naomi Judd left behind. Their lives have been changed forever in a most unimaginable way.

This is a book that I will always have in my collection. Just sharing...
Passionate about peonies...you betcha!!This is onl Passionate about peonies...you betcha!!This is only one in my garden of many and let me tell you - I am gonna pull up a chair, a glass of refreshment, and watch these blooms open! The peony show is an event I anticipate every spring. It's the best way to know, no matter what is going on in the world...the garden is there for us.
Do you tune out of the world and tune into your garden?
It is the best way to clear the mind, soothe the heart, and be at peace...if only for a little while...#backinthegarden, #springinspiration #springbloomers #allthingsbeautiful #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #peonypassion #anticipatethebloom
Enjoy the day! I will...Happy Mother's Day to all! Enjoy the day! I will...Happy Mother's Day to all!
I bought The Cottage 18 years ago this August. I c I bought The Cottage 18 years ago this August. I carried my plants in my truck for safe keeping, as I relocated and set up my new home. One of those plants was a dogwood seedling from the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina. 
Last year I began to think about cutting it down since it had not bloomed. Then, I noticed a cluster of three blooms. I was ecstatic...and decided to keep the tree. It was a memory of a wonderful bus trip, with wonderful ladies, when I lived in Fredericksburg.
Today when I looked out the front door...I simply burst into tears. It is so full of starter blooms that will evolve into beautiful white blooms. The words starry starry night came to mind...and I began to hum. 
This garden thing is in my blood, in my core, and I appreciate the gifts from the garden.
I wish my ancestors could have had time to simply enjoy the garden...perhaps they did...
Did you receive a gift from the garden today?
#allthingsbeautiful #allaboutthegardenlife #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #seasonalbliss #springinspiration #springbloomers dogwoods
So I'm looking at the Local Living section of the So I'm looking at the Local Living section of the Washington Post, page 8 and can't stop giggling! What an exciting year and AH-MAZING journey...
Thank you for the coverage Washington Post, Jura Koncius, and all who helped make this happen.
I need to find a new place to pinch my arms...lol!
Instructions for a delicious meal: 1. Go to #nido Instructions for a delicious meal:

1. Go to #nidodc 
2. Purchase 1 (or two) tubs of Elysian Fields Lamb Meatballs in Picada Sauce
3.Heat and serve with Ancient Grain, Wild or Seven Grain and Rice blends
4. Don't forget to pick a wine to complement the dish 
5. Thank me later 

The flavors of this dish was like a party in my mouth. I enjoyed every bite and can't wait for dinner time tonight so I can devour what remains.

This dish was quick, easy, and well I have another tub in my freezer...so I sm good!
Thank you Nido for knowing what I need, when I don't know what I need...giggle!
#nidodc #readymademeal #smallbatchfoods #allthingsbeautiful #threewomenandawineshop
Every morning I look forward to the daily gifts fr Every morning I look forward to the daily gifts from my garden. Its like a birthday present every day. Remember when you opened that gift and you wondered how it worked? How many batteries would it need, if any?
When I see a bud, I wonder...will it unfurl today? Can I cut it? How long will it last in a vase? Whatvither foliage is available to compliment it? 
When we receive a gift f ry om the garden, the first thing we should be grateful. Grateful that it felt welcomed enough to return for another season 
Do you make sure your plants feel welcome in your garden?
Feeling grateful for my gifts from the garden.
#allaboutthegardenlife #giftsfromthegarden #allthingsbeautiful #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #springspiration #springbloomers #seasonalbliss
Spring spilling out all over! It is funny how so m Spring spilling out all over! It is funny how so many who have been captivated by this gathering of seasonal bliss blooming branches have said "I have that bush" or "I never thought about making an arrangement from my shrub. I just cut it back after it finishes blooming." Just look at the beauty that could have been enjoyed inside as well as outside. Consider using a recycled container to showcase what's blooming outside - inside. Also consider bringing those blooms up close and personal when entertaining. Spring blooming bushes add value to life as the world begins to awaken with the fresh colors of Spring. Allow the gifts of the season to spill out of vases, old containers, a old purse, or even an old pair of shoes. Be creative!
@wdcgardener ...there is a chapter in our book on considering those recycled items as garden decor, correct? 
Do you sometimes overlook the gifts of the season? #allthingsbeautiful #alwaysthinkingaboutthegarden #allaboutthegardenlife #springinspiration #springbloomers #recycleandplay #letsplayoutside #makingdo #springshrubsforflowers
When you realize that floral wire AT HOME would be When you realize that floral wire AT HOME would be useful right now...sigh
#makingdowithwhatsonhand,
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