Blooms in the Kitchen

Years ago, at Wal-Mart in Oshkosh, I saw a yellow orchid that looked neglected and was starting to wilt. It was already on clearance. I knew if I didn't bring it home right then it was going to die. Other orchids followed.

We don't know a lot about growing them. Our white orchid blooms once in awhile and a magenta one just plain died. But the first plant, this yellow orchid is just amazing. It blooms at least once a year with the blossoms staying open for 4 or 5 months or so. It has been blooming about a month now and is sending up a 2nd stalk for more blossoms.


Last night I was watching a gardening show on PBS and the host said most orchids smell. Well mine sits back by the window and I have never gotten that close to the blooms. I ran right into the kitchen----It has the freshest scent, not heavy like a gardenia or rose but light and citrus-like, think a blend of vanilla and fresh ripe grapefruit. I have been sniffing a lot today. Just lovely to see and smell.

OK, the violets are blooming also. These are orphan violets that really belong to Emily. I need to divide and re-pot them.

All this blooming got me in the mood for spring. Took down all the winter artwork, put away the two little snowmen I have and changed the flag outside the house from Norman Rockwell's Saturday Evening Post "Four Boys on a Sled" to Audubon's "Nesting Robins". Watch it snow tomorrow!