Memory Holders

  Years and years ago (way back when the kids were small), we used to take hikes back into the creek bed.  While other parents were too afraid to let their kids even go outside, I encouraged mine to roam the woods.  Of course, I was with them but the dangers were still there.  I figured my kids needed to learn to handle scary situations rather than hide from them.  Obviously, it worked.  As adults, they are alert to their surroundings, are able to face and conquer problems and have an infinite love for nature.  Our treks allowed them to learn to smell snakes before seeing them, explore the hidden wonders of wild creek beds and learn the flora and fauna of the area.

  It was on one of those "expeditions" that we found the creek bed filled with purple flowers.  The wild Stoke's Asters were in full bloom.  The kids were so enthralled with their own "Secret Garden" that we decided to dig up a couple of plants to bring back to the yard.  I had no idea if the plants would even grow after being moved from their boggy domain but they did.  This week, I was surprised by a few blooms peeking out from under the jasmine vines.  Their rich purple color led me to believe that the asters were happy where they were planted so many years ago.

  Stoke's Asters are wildflowers that can be found all over the Southeast.  They do well being transplanted into gardens as long as they have a bit of shade and well-drained, acidic soil.  After they are established, the plants require little to no care.  The blooms also do well as cut-flowers as they will last up to a week in a vase!  

  I love my little aster patch, not only because of the blooms, but also because of the memories of our creek bed hikes.  I miss those times.  It has occurred to me that perhaps I do not have gardens but, instead, have "memory holders"!