Signs of Fall

Pumpkins are one of the colorful symbols of fall.
Pumpkins and Mums
Although fall was a little slow getting here this year, let’s relish its beautiful colors while they last. (The photos in this post were taken at Roger’s Trees and Nursery along Shallowford Road in Lewisville, NC.)

Beautiful, multi-colored mums also indicate that fall is upon us.
More Colorful Photos of Pumpkins and Mums
To see MORE COLORFUL PHOTOS, please continue to the NEXT SECTION. CLICK to see more pumpkins and mums
Mystery and Majesty

The blooms of a beautiful Turk’s Cap Lily (Lilium superbum) hang in splendor before a blurred-out background of yellow daylilies.
Unexpected Beauty
Little did I know when I pulled out of the driveway one recent morning that I’d soon run smack-dab into mystery and majesty.
I was driving along Yadkinville Road, intent on checking out possible photo opportunities at a nearby farm, when I glanced toward one of the private drives in the Sattsgate development. There, I saw a lady tending a large, beautiful patch of yellow daylilies. I thought, “Wow! I’ve never noticed those beauties before! I’m turning around to check them out.”
When I got out of my truck, I introduced myself to Mrs. Barbara Brooks, a retired nurse. Our conversation went on for at least an hour, as Barbara graciously showed me around the floral paradise that surrounds the home where she lives with her husband, Dr. Joe Brooks, a retired N.C. State horticulturist. (You should also know that Dr. Brooks proudly drives a bright red — really clean — pickup truck with an NCSU plate on the front!)
To enjoy MORE PHOTOS of NATURE’S WONDERS at the home of Dr. Joe and Barbara Brooks, please continue to the NEXT SECTION. CLICK for more Mystery and Majesty
My Mother’s Rose

For Mother's Day, a red rose signifies respect and undying love.
A Tradition
Here in the South, it has long been a tradition to wear a rose on Mother’s Day. According to tradition, if one’s mother is no longer living, the rose should be white. And if one’s mother is still alive, the rose should be red.
For this Mother’s Day, I’m thankful to be displaying a red rose in honor of my mother, who — like so many mothers throughout the ages — has always demonstrated unwavering love for her children. CLICK for more on My Mother’s Rose
These Hearts

The flower, Dicentra spectabilis, is also known as a bleeding heart.
Some hearts are cold and closed — but these hearts are tender and free.