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The Harvest Moon – Lighting the Way for Angels

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The harvest moon shines brightly in the night sky. Signaling a call for new angels.

The harvest moon shone brightly the past few nights. Something told me that this was a sign, not just for the typical nighttime harvest, but a call for new angels in heaven. Heaven harvested angels from my family last week, right in time for the harvest moon. Our family is sad and we will miss them. Although sad, it is a time where I have chosen to reflect on the season of their lives. If you know anything about the harvest moon, you will understand the significance of the timing of their journey. As a woman connected to this earth, allow me to explain.

The harvest moon is something many people look forward to as a way of signaling a change in seasons. The bright light of this moon illuminates the fields from the heavens above. Traditionally, farmers are able to harvest the larger more visible crops, as they stand out in the well-lit field. Most farmers look forward to the harvest moon after toiling in the earth for a season. After a few nights of the harvest moon, the autumn equinox follows and a new season begins. Isn’t this just like the journey of life?

Heaven harvested fresh angels from my family last week. Having finished his earthly task, heaven chose Moses. It was time for him to embark upon a heavenly journey. Moses was a strong, wise, and seasoned man. He wrote a book about his life’s journey in an effort to inspire a new generation of individuals to be strong and not falter. Moses knew what it meant to have character and weather the storm – even in the face of adversity.

As an author, Moses wrote a book called, MOSES – A Sharecropper’s Son. Writing with the help of his granddaughter, Moses planted seeds for the next generation. It is via the words of this man we can read over and over again his perspectives on life. I can only imagine that at the end of his earthly journey, Moses heard that heaven was looking for new angels. Standing at the edge of life’s field, he waited for the harvest moon to illuminate the way.

I am certain that many others who had completed their earthly journey also waited at the edge of the field. My cousin George waited as well. Retiring a few years ago, George was beaming in May as we celebrated his son’s wedding. I still see him, standing across the room, catching my eye, as he pointed and grinned. Rapidly making his way across the room, glowing with joy, we hugged and chatted. Afterward, he made his rounds visiting family and friends who gathered for this joyous event. With that crooked smile, firm hug, and eyes glimmering as they held back tears of joy, George worked that room.

It reminded me of times spent with him as a child. George always made me laugh. As cousins, we gathered in the basement as his Mom, Aunt Alma, made us lunch of hot dogs and French fries. These moments are happy and cherished memories of our childhood. We looked forward to being together. George demonstrated what it meant to be a loving husband by taking care of his wife Felicia and being the best father imaginable.

Upon hearing that George was ill, prayers of healing went up. I imagine that George heard about the need for more angels in heaven and thought why not apply. George had the personality and knew he could fulfill the requirements. In my imagination, I see an image of George standing at the edge of a field. George stood waiting for the harvest moon to cast its glow for the journey ahead.

In my imagination, there were others waiting along the edge of the field. They patiently stood waiting for the next part of the journey. The light of the harvest moon would illuminate the way. Something tells me that along the way Moses and George would meet and become travel partners. With experiences from a well-lived life, Moses would be sharing the lessons learned along the way. George would simply smile that crooked smile and laugh.

Heaven harvested a few new angels last week. Two of them were Moses and George. I write this to honor them…

Teri, Cottage In The Court

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Splendor in the Park with PHS

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Splendor can best describe moments spent at the 2021 Philadelphia Flower Show. PHS provided a timely botanical elixir as the world began to open up and gather.

Merriam Webster describes splendor as having great brightness or luster. The 2021 Philadelphia Flower Show exhibited magnificence and pomp. It was the exact elixir to inspire us to go outside and embrace the beauty that was created for us at FDR Park.

The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society is known for what it does to create a strong horticultural conversation in Philadelphia and beyond. After an unexpected period of pausing, The Philadelphia Flower Show was exactly what we needed. Thank you Pennsylvania Horticultural Society for making certain we could experience this annual ritual for another year. I cannot believe I had the opportunity to experience this history-making event. This was the first time in the Philadelphia Flower show’s history, where it was held outside. The timing of this long-anticipated event happened in June when the garden is gently awakening.

Not sure what to expect, I arrived with high hopes of seeing garden inspiration in a natural setting at the beautiful FDR Park. Arriving early in the day to beat the heat and the crowd was my objective. I was not the only one who had this bright idea. Pennsylvania Horticultural Society partnered with some of the surrounding parking lots to make certain parking was accessible. There were buses and trolleys to aid in transporting attendees conveniently. This was a wise idea as there were many seniors in attendance.

I arrived and was looking forward to a day of fun.

The setting was amazing. The lake, as well as the cool breeze of the morning, invoked a sense of calm. As many know, I often speak about how the garden is a healer. FDR Park was quite the setting for a day of wandering through exhibits for botanical inspiration. I knew this event was not only going to be amazing but a healing experience as well.

SPLENDOR IN THE PARK

No matter where you looked, there were flowers everywhere. Each pot was planted to show off the diversity found in the garden. Defining the different areas where one could wander, the plants led the way. One display that caught my attention, invited the onlooker to take a seat and enjoy the day in the park.

This display was positioned so that one could imagine a feast in the park.

There were displays that invoked a sense of calm as well…

The colors and textures in this vignette really captured my heart.

There were cool cars in the shade which drew a crowd…

This planting also caught my attention. Splendor in the shade seemed to be a theme and truly added a pop of color.

There were even displays that popped in the sunshine…

The colors in this display were definitely bold and brilliant.

BEST IN SHOW

There was also the display by Wambui Ippolito, voted as Best In Show.

From the back corner of the display…
To the front of the display…
Wambui definitely put her heart and soul in this display.

Wambui definitely put her heart and soul into her display. She explained to me how it took a village to make this display happen in a timely manner.

The Burpee Cottage Garden display was absolutely delightful. A perfect way to show what a Cottage Garden could look like. I fell in love with the horticultural toile that lined the booth.

These tomato’s would have been terrific on a salad!
The splendor found in this Burpee display was quite inspirational.

Inside the booth there were seed packet combinations for sale. Sharing what it would look like after planting was quite helpful.

RITUAL RESTORED

The ritual of attending The Philadelphia Flower Show in late winter did not happen this year. PHS had to pivot, plan, and produce the Flower Show in the midst of the pandemic. They also had to find a way to pull this off outdoors. The splendor of the space, the exhibitors, and the creative layout were all spot on. I want to say KUDO’s to the team for a job well done. I had a terrific time, my head is filled with ideas and some I can execute in my garden this year.

Splendor was truly defined at FDR Park as PHS encouraged us to get outside as they brought us the 2021 Philadelphia Flower Show.

Tu Bloom had his hands full as he instructed the attendees of the Planting Party

Now to find my Burpee seeds to incorporate in my cottage garden. I think they might have dropped out of my bag as my arms were full when I took advantage of the Trolley. You know I had to shop! There were a few Heuchera that wanted to go home with me. What a great memento of a sizzling hot day.

Digging through my bags…

Teri, Cottage In The Court

PS – I have more photos, however I do not want to spoil it for those who have not seen The Philadelphia Flower Show. Get outside and see what you have been missing.

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Valor – Perennials Found In Life’s Garden

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Valor found in my family was James A. Speight, Jr, My Dad was quite proud of serving his country,

Valor as defined by Merriam Webster means strength of mind or spirit that enables a person to encounter danger with firmness. The word “valor” defines our Veterans. Men and women who have served in the military are honored as they exhibited the absence of indecision as they faced life or death in battle. This is valor at the highest level.

HISTORY

On Memorial day, many simply view this as the beginning of summer. This was not the intended purpose of this weekend. According to History.com, in 1868, General John Logan declared May 30th as a day to recognize soldiers killed in the Civil war. After World War I, the United States changed this day to honor Veterans of all wars. All things change over time. In 1968, The Uniform Monday Holiday Act passed by Congress changed the date. We now recognize Memorial Day on the last Monday of May.

Reading the book, Race and Reunion by Professor David Blight (Yale), adds a different date and perspective. Mr. Blight identified an 1865 Memorial day event. Documented in The New York Tribune and The Charleston Courier, the Washington Race Course was significant in recognizing those lost in battle. After digging up and properly burying 260 Union soldiers, there was a Memorial event. 10,000 people gathered to properly “send off” the deceased. The 54th Massachusetts Regiment, other African American regiments, white missionaries, and even freed African Americans participated in the events of the day. Mr. Blight faced adversity as he validated his research. The events beyond the newspapers of the day are suppressed.

Recognizing valor is a part of our lives. Being dependable, steadfast, and honestly reliable is important. Our lives have perennial people that have served in the military. These people have shown valor in serving our country. As I think about life, there are a few plants that exhibit valor in our life gardens.

PLANTED VALOR

Perennials are dependable plants in our gardens. They thrive and multiply, ensuring that they stand firmly as placeholders in our gardens. Veterans are there for us always. Perennials are dependable and represent valor in the garden. Allow me to break down a few perennials that spell out valor.

V – Verbena Bonariensis

Verbena Bonariensis is a perennial that stands on rigid stems, rising above the garden, as it attracts beneficial insects to the garden. Newer cultivars come in shorter heights to accommodate any size garden.

A – Achillea

Achillea, also known as Yarrow is a spreading hardy perennial. Proven to be dependable in spite of the drought, great as a cut flower and year after year.

L – Liatris

Liatris is a pollinator magnet for birds and butterflies. This corm is durable and hardy even in clay soils. A native prairie plant that is also great as a cut flower.

O – Oenethera

Long blooming, dependable, and eager to spread, Oenethera certainly exhibits horticultural valor. It is known for attracting moths and other nighttime beneficial insects.. This plant also has a delightful fragrance.

R- Rudbeckia

Most are familiar with this long-blooming ray of sunshine in the garden. It bridges the gap in a perennial border as well as attracts beneficial pollinators.

Perennials sometimes have annuals with similar names. These plants show up with such grandeur for one season. After one season, they fizzle out. Sometimes, they will sow seed. The valor shown by a perennial is reliable, noteworthy, and often priceless.

REFLECTIONS ON VALOR

My dad was such a big part of my life. Often sharing his experiences good and bad as the only African American in his platoon. Dad traveled to the Philippines snd even California to build military bases. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1961 to join the love of his life. Together, they raised us as a team. I am glad to have had a parent who served in the Armed Forces. The experiences my Dad shared have been quite valuable.

A good friend of mine reminded those on social media platforms of the proper words to say on this Veterans Day. It is not appropriate to say Happy Memorial Day, per Kim. She is a proud Veteran. I asked if she had words to share, “As a military brat, veteran, and spouse, Memorial Day has always been very important to me. It’s the day I honor my Uncle Herman and all the men and women who died in the war.”, Kim Roman, SSgt USAF 1977-1982. I am proud to know Kim and I appreciate her service.

Many people reading this know a Veteran who lost their lives in battle. Some Veterans came home with have battles continuing in their minds. There are some Veterans who are in need of mental health services. For several years, I rode with friends in Rolling Thunder. The emotion I experienced as I listened to stories of survival left quite the impression in my heart. These Veterans are proud to have survived. TheseVeterans continue to mourn their brothers and sisters who did not survive to rejoin the world they protected from danger.

This is the designated weekend where we collectively remember those who exhibited Valor. Remember they are the true perennials in our life gardens. We need perennial people who exhibit valor in our life gardens. A garden with perennials of valor is a great way to remember our Veterans.

I honor my Dad and all of the true Veterans this weekend. With a reflective spirit, I appreciation of their service. Are you honoring a true Veteran this weekend?

Teri, Cottage In The Court

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BloomBox – Plant Joy and More At Your Door

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BLOOMBOX should have a 12-Step Program in it’s online offering’s.

BLOOMBOX – I am in LOVE. I am almost ashamed to admit that I…well…I am a fan. Note I say almost. Please allow me to explain.

A dear friend of mine just happened to share that she was waiting for a plant delivery from BLOOMBOX. Common sense said I should have ignored that – but I didn’t. I asked her to share a photo of her plants when they arrived. My doubtful mind said they will be puny, no roots, and she will wish she had gone to a local nursery. I was SO WRONG (Lord, forgive me for pre-judging.)

BLOOMBOX TRIAL

My first order from BloomBox was a mix of plant material – to test the waters. You know how it is.

Seeing my fellow garden buddy’s photo had me order (for closer inspection – of course) a few items. An assortment of perennials, annuals, and vegetables – all to trial in my garden. I dug deep for the fine print or a disclaimer of some sort. If they were not to my liking, had I made a huge mistake? What if they did not pass the “Teri Test”? What if they were dry upon arrival? Where do they come from? Surely they were joking when the mention of NO SHIPPING was on my invoice. I was delightfully surprised.

BLOOMBOX passed the test – all of them. The plants were moist. There was actually a plant in each pot and not 80% soil with a hint of a plant. I was even surprised that when I turned the pot upside down, the soil was intact and the roots were healthy and not rootbound. The plants were VERY healthy! Oh by the way – the plants were priced RIGHT as well.

BLOOMBOX RATIONAL

Why try BLOOMBOX?

We are in the midst of a seemingly never-ending pandemic. some people are not willing to venture out. It was sad listening to the stories of NOT gardening last year from some friends and associates. I knew there had to be a way for the 2021 garden season to be enjoyed and not be missed. BLOOMBOX seems to be the answer.

What a treat to see the BLOOMBOX truck pull up on time and with a smile!! The driver said, “Good to see you again!” For an instant, the sun was shining in the midst of the rain…

One of the benefits of BLOOMBOX is the variety. Perennials, Annuals, Houseplants, pots, and more. All plants have arrived healthy, handled with care, and delivered with a smile. All from the comfort of your home and computer, delivered within three days, sales, wish lists, and more. You can even earn points when you order. I noticed that they have a pretty good vegetable selection as well, just in case your seeds didn’t come up.

FOMO? BLOOMBOX IS YOUR ANSWER

Life can get busy. Thank goodness there is BLOOM BOX!

I am not getting paid for this – honestly. Between working full-time, in the middle of writing two books, starting a long-term garden project, as well as beginning to travel lightly time is limited. It is important that I am surrounded by beautiful gardens, so I must maintain my garden. The more abundant blooms I have, the happier I am. After ordering, the best part of my day is waiting for the notification of the arrival time of my BLOOMBOX.

FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) is real. Especially when it comes to not seeing and purchasing new plants for the garden. There will still be times when you want to go to the local garden center. After all, supporting local matters. However, if you are hesitant to venture out just yet, here is a suggestion. Pour a cup of tea, log on to BLOOMBOX, and shop as if you were at the garden center. We have become experts at online shopping over the past year.

Now back to working on book #1…with a smile and realizing that I was able to find that Hellebore I saw last weekend, it was on sale, and is now waiting to be planted.

Trake in hand and a vision in my mind….

Teri, Cottage In The Court

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Ready – Spring, Cicadas, and More

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Ready to toot their trumpets, Daffodils are beginning to open and start the Spring garden party.

Ready is a phrase that many gardeners are using these days. After a period of unintentional pausing, followed by an unpredictable winter, we are ready. For what one might ask? To get back outside, feel the soil between our fingers, and experience floral bliss in our own space.

It is the beginning of March. The bulbs planted last fall are showing up and bursting into bloom. Some bulbs are a tad earlier than expected. While others, although ready, patiently wait their turn. Early daffodils stand tall sounding the alarm of spring, while the crocus choir waits patiently at their feet. Oh…I am so ready for Spring!

The intoxicating scent these little flowers emit carries you further into the garden to see what is next. After all, there is something always happening in the garden.

The Sarcococca hookeriana invites me into my side garden with a scent as intoxicating as the scent of Spring. The insignificant bloom invites us to simply embrace the earth’s awakening. Did we leave some leaf litter to protect the beneficial insects as they lay ready and waiting to be helpful to our gardens? Are we cautiously uncovering the garden, careful not to damage the tips of the peony buds rising from the earth? It is a time of year when we must gingerly observe the signs of a season that is slowly unfolding.

These crocus were a favorite of my parents. My garden holds so many memories…and I welcome each and every one.

As we wait, is there a plan for this year’s garden? Is there a color scheme or theme? Will we seed or simply just buy plants? Have you invested in good potting soil? Do you have all of your soil amendments on hand, ready to apply at the right time? Remember, good soil – whether in a pot or the ground – is the foundation. A good soil foundation is essential for a successful garden. Preparing for a garden filled with what brings us joy truly matters.

CICADAS -READY OR NOT

Are you considering planting young trees, like fruit trees? Perhaps you should wait until fall or next year. In certain areas, we have guests coming in numbers too big to ignore. Cicadas are coming whether we want them to or not. Young trees, particularly fruit trees will show some damage. Cicadas will create slits in the tips of young or even diseased branches to lay their eggs. ‘Flagging’ occurs as recognizable damage when these branches tend to die. Despite all the rumors, Cicadas will not dine on the leaves of your plants or vegetables. They are root lovers. As the babies drop from the tender branches to go underground for the next seventeen years to eat roots. The damaged branches will be noticeable. For those of us with children, we KNOW the kids have to eat, right?

ARE YOU READY?

This miniature Daffodil was planted in honor of my niece Lexi. We were not ready to lose her, however, her spirit shines each year these bloom, and the clump increases.

What a year! We have the lingering effects of the ‘so- not-over’ pandemic as we anticipate (not really) the Cicadas cruising. Are you ready to embrace the next season with cautious abandon?

As I decide where to find my scented begonias for the shady side of my garden, my readiness is questionable. Do I want white to brighten up the area or pink and white? Will I plant edibles with my annuals? Should I plant more perennials in my pots and simply add an annual or two? Decisions, decisions… every day another vignette comes to mind. Right now, I am ready to welcome Spring – and more – with total abandon.

Sitting inside the Cottage, sowing seeds to share,

Teri , Cottage In the Court

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