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As I merged onto the highway this morning, making my way to Dodgeville
from Mount Horeb, I couldn't help but notice again the purple chicory flowers
that lined the ramp and highway. Like lights guiding planes into and away
from an airport, the purple lined roadways never fail to put a smile on my
face each late-summer morning as I make my daily commute.
Before a long Tuesday deadline night last week, I stopped by my parent's
house on Chapel Street where Mom and I walked around the yard, admiring
the various hues of flowers purple, pink, orange, yellow, red.
Mom said she thought the phlox were getting kind of wild but I disagreed.
They looked perfect to me. And their sweet scent - she brought a bouquet
inside and it brightened the entire kitchen.
Then last Thursday I interviewed a gentleman in Mineral Point with impressive
gardens outside his home. Before we got to official interviewing
business, he invited me for a walk around the garden, where I spotted the
largest hosta I have ever seen. That too, brought a smile to my face.
Some people may think they're just weeds, but to me, the flowers of summer
are something beautiful. This time of the year all outdoor plants seem
to be in their prime, displaying an array of outstanding colors.
So sneak away for a moment to touch the soft petals of a rose or smell the
sweet aroma of the garden phlox. Take a moment to admire the flowers of
summer, even if the only moment you get is standing next to a six foot sunflower
reaching toward the sky.