Peonies Evoke Happy Memories

The last week of May every year, peonies overtake our home. The subtly sweet fragrance always reminds me of our daughter, Anna's wedding. Two years before she was married, I ordered a variety of peonies from Martha Stewart and planted them at every fence post. By the time, Anna and Marcus got married the bushes were established and blooming profusely. That was eleven years ago today.

May 25, 2002 was a gorgeous sunny day. Our home was banked with peony blossoms. And at the church, huge peony topiaries graced the altar and a huge wreath of peonies filled in the chancel wall. The bridesmaids carried nosegays of pink peonies which showed up beautifully against their silver gray gowns. At the reception, the tables were stunning with 36 inch candle tapers surrounding the peony centerpieces. No wonder peony season always brings back a flood of happy memories.

Our garden features candy-striped peonies,

pink peonies,

and white peonies.

Here they are indoors:  in the living room,

in the sunroom,

between the kitchen and sunroom,

 on the kitchen island,

even in the library.

To me they are the perfect flower, perhaps because they have such a sweet association.  

"Happy Anniversary, Marcus and Anna."