gifts

On my fabulous trip to Paris to visit my cousin this summer, I didn’t get to Giverny, Monet’s inspirational garden.  While in Paris I enjoyed the impressionist exhibit at the D’Orsay museum, which included many Monets, Manets, Pissaros, and Sisleys, among others.  The amazing ability of these painters to bring the canvas to life leaves me awestruck. I feel as though I already know Monet’s  garden. (Don’t tell, but I actually have 5 Monet/impressionist coffee table books – my most recent chronicling the D’Orsay exhibit.)
So, when one of my bff’s went to Paris a few weeks ago, she kept my in mind as she toured Giverny.  Yesterday she presented me with a gift from her trip — two beautifully packaged sets of seeds from plants growing in the garden there.  What a special gift and I’m so excited to plant some of these seeds in my own garden. 

Thank you, Maria, for your sweet and thoughtful gift.  I hope I can bring you a bouquet from these flowers come springtime.

Holidays are always fun when you’re a gardener. There is a never-ending supply of wonderful gifts for gardeners. From gloves to ceramic pots to garden art — even non-gardeners can find something fun to give.

And I believe you can never have too many bird feeders, houses, or baths. (More on that in my next post.)

So it’s always interesting to see what’s behind the gift wrap.

I love this little seat – it’s so portable and comfortable to sit on, and being able to tuck my hand tools in it is wonderful.
This is the most unusual gift I have ever received. My dear friend, Kristen, gave me this little package. In it? Rose seeds that are registered with a number, and waiting for ME to grow and name the rose. How cool is that?

I’m waiting anxiously to plant my seeds. I think they will get their start in the greenhouse, which is perfect for seeds this time of the year.

Naming my rose, will be another matter altogether. No pressure there! Any ideas or suggestions for names? There hundreds if not thousands of roses out there. The process will certainly have to include making sure the name I choose isn’t already taken.
This adorable birdhouse is just waiting for a new family to move in. I wonder who will find it appealing? Cardinals, wrens, titmice, finches? We’ll keep watch for our new neighbors!