Twanging My Heart Strings

This is California's true gold. Tidy tips, Goldfields, Owl's Clover, and larkspur beside Soda Lake

Yesterday was a gift. Jeff and I worked until 3, then headed out the back roads to explore the offerings of spring. Am I ever glad we did. The recent rains have strewn the hillsides and meadows with carpets of wildflowers and scents that are sweeter than honey.  Meadowlarks perched on the roadside fences, like clothespins on a line. Their songs are SO amazing and joyous. Thanks to all of you who wrote e-mails and comments and told me to take some time off for fun.

Gilia 

Bush poppy

A floral gypsy

Delphinium in Owl's Clover

Prickly phlox

Chia sage

When I am immersed in our native plants, I wonder WHY I ever plant anything else, but I can't help myself–I love so many plants. Still, the natives twang my heart strings like no others.

It's easy to see why the common name is Larkspur

Scarlet Bugler

I thought our day was perfect, but had to amend it to beyond perfect when I opened my mail and found this lovely letter. Who could ever hope for a better compliment?

Leaving for Napa where I will give a talk at The Playful Garden at 11 a.m. on Saturday and at 4 p.m. on Sunday at Mrs. Dalloway's in Berkeley. Our house sitters might as well move in here.

Remember to follow your joy.