Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Another beautiful morning

Good morning friends,

This morning I went outside while the coffee was perking and sat in a chair on the patio just outside our little library. It was early, cool, breezy and traffic was starting to build up, but instead of it bothering me, it brought back some wonderful memories. Memories of our 60-day back packing trip by Eurail in 1973. DH was newly discharged from the US Navy, and we had decided to take this journey before we headed back home to the U.S.

We visited 9-11 countries, can't remember exactly right now and it was some experience, one we'll never forget. This morning, sitting there I remembered early mornings in different European cities, as we headed out on our daily jaunts. The cities would be awakening, traffic would become heavy as people started out and about their daily business. There were lots of bakeries and you could smell the fresh bread and pastries, coffee, and other cooking aromas, mixed in with the diesel fuel, as the day got under way. Shop keepers would be opening up their shops, sweeping their sidewalks, getting ready for the new day.

These memories started my day today and I am thankful for that experience we had. I've talked with quite a few people over the years and they say Europe isn't what it was when we were there. I'm glad we were there when it was still old Europe, I know seeing McDonald's and other fast food establishments would be very depressing, not to mention modern construction, that has ruined some of the beautiful vistas.

I felt blessed this morning sitting there with memories, inspired to get up, have coffee and get about my daily business whatever it might be. Ready to live in the now, making new memories.

Have a lovely day doing whatever comes your way.

FlowerLady

*******************

No sooner did I bend over and scratch the soil with the hoe
that I began to unearth bits and pieces ... of my past.

Memories forever rooted in time
were clustered in my garden consciousness
like potatoes,
waiting, crying to be dug up.

I plant flowers and vegetables.
I harvest memories - and life.

Nancy H. Jordan, 1993



13 comments:

Dirt Princess said...

I was in Europe from June-August of 2001. I came bakc 12 days before 9-11, and it isn't the same now as it was then. I could imagine the difference from when you were there. I loved it though

Debbie's Garden said...

That trip sounds so mahvelous dahling! Especially as newlyweds. Very romantic and carefree. Oh youth!

Becca's Dirt said...

Such a lovely story. That must have been an awesome adventure to visit so many countries. Happy gardening... Becca

Catherine@AGardenerinProgress said...

I just love that quote!!
Your trip sounds like such a fun adventure! I remember going there in the 80's with my good friend. I still clearly remember that trip. It's nice to have those kind of good memories to look back on.

sweetbay said...

Wow, it sounds like you had a wonderful time in Europe. Nothing beats the smell of coffee and baking bread.

Is that rose Alchymist, perchance?

Iowa Gardening Woman said...

What a wonderful memory.

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

Good morning Ladies,

Dirt Princess ~ Glad you were able to visit Europe. It is quite the experience

Debbie ~ It really was wonderful. We were young 24 & 25. We'd been living in Spain for a little over three years while DH was serving his time in the US Navy. In spite of the Navy, it did feel like a big long honeymoon. No family, just the two of us seeing and doing new things.

Becca ~ It was quite the journey and adventure visiting that many countries. We still talk about that trip. It's hard to believe that happened 36 years ago.

Catherine ~ Yes it is nice to have good memories to look back on. They make one feel good. I loved that quote also. Just found it yesterday when I was looking for one for the post.

Sweet bay ~ It is amazing how scents and sounds can trigger memories. The rose is Souvenir d'Elise Vardon. Got her a few years back from a little nursery online, that has since closed. They were in GA.

Iowa Gardening Woman ~ Just one of many wonderful memories from that trip.

Happy gardening dear hearts. Have fun creating memories for you and your families.

FlowerLady

Morning Glories in Round Rock said...

What a lovely way to start the day! First for you, and now for me. What a wonderful memory to have of Europe...truly a once in a lifetime opportunity--and even better to experience it with your best friend!

sweetbay said...

Souvenir d'Elise Vardon is lovely. It almost has the quality of crepe paper but at the same time looks very luxuriant.

jen said...

What beautiful memories!!

I'm so glad you stopped by my blog because now I found yours!! Your blog is full of such gorgeous photos and I can't wait to nose around some more!!

Take care!

Jen

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

Good morning morning glories in round rock ~ It sure was a once in a lifetime opportunity and we are grateful for it. We were so young then.

Hope your BIL continues to heal with each new day.

Hugs ~ FlowerLady

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

Hi Sweet Bay ~ Souvenir d' Elise Vardon does have a crape paper quality now that you mention it. Once this plant gets a little bigger, I'll have to move her to either a larger pot, or into the main garden.

Good morning Jen ~ Yes, those are some wonderful memories and there are much more. Thanks for visiting my blog.

FlowerLady

Corner Gardener Sue said...

I need to keep up with your posts better. I love your writing. This was lovely!