Friday Flowers Club #34~Roots

Hello friends.

It has been a hectic few weeks following Simon’s surgery. But days like these remind me of the love and support of those around us that have taken the time and energy to help us out or send a few encouraging words. We’re all one big jumble of connections and interactions in the background, like the roots of the trees in the forest reaching out silently towards each other deep underground.

One of the strongest trees in our forest is my dear friend Jean, who painted this beautiful Oxeye Daisy as a gift for my 50th birthday earlier this year. Her energy, kindness and goodwill is infectious. Out on a walk with her one day, she asked what my favourite flower was and, serendipitously, we happened to be near the very thing. And from that, I have this wonderful painting that sits proudly in our living room.

I have always loved Daisies. Hours spent as a child weaving daisy chains as crowns and necklaces, days spent playing in grasslandsand meadows with a carpet of white as a playground, they hark back to a time of innocence and wonder, which ironically is what Norse, Celtic and Christian folklore all associate the flower with; purity, love and innocence. And in turn also a flower so symbolic of our own routines and rituals. The term ‘Daisy’ originates from ‘Day’s Eye’, a nod to the fact it opens in the morning and closes its petals at night. I like that analogy.

Now as an adult, omnipresent in our native flora, it is their hardiness and resilience I appreciate and carry with me the most. The Oxeye Daisy will grow almost anywhere and come back time and time again. Hardy, strong, radiant, unapologetic. Another analogy we can all use.

However, as we are deep into autumn and the humble Daisy is resting ahead of its next appearance, I’ve decided to bring some warmer hues to our homes this week with more Oxblood reds, than Oxeye whites.

Have a lovely week and as always, “Bringing the Outdoors In”.