LUPINES - PRETTY IN PINK!

Gathering and arranging flowers is a passion of mine.  And, although I take numerous pictures of the final results, it seems there's always something missing in the photo.   The same is true when taking pictures in the yard.  There's just something about smelling their wonderful aroma, working with them, and examining them up close, that goes deeper than viewing their beauty in a photo.    Flowers touch the soul--the beauty they exude goes much deeper and beyond the picture.This sentiment, by an unknown author, expresses my feelings.

"That is the best part of BEAUTY,

Which a picture cannot express."

Remember when working with flowers for arranging that they will last much longer if you gather the flowers early in the morning, before the sun is out, or late in the evening, after the sun is down.  Plunge them immediately in tepid, deep water. Select blooms that are still in the last stages of a bud. Re-cut stems on a diagonal, under water, if possible.  Let sit over night in a dark, cool place, or in a refrigerator, if possible.(40 degrees is an ideal temperature).  Use a floral preservative, and change water every few days if possible.  Display in a area free from drafts and direct sun.  When not on display, if possible, store in a dark, cool place.  And most of all, ENJOY them!