Super Simple Arrangements

While certainly stunning, arrangements of cut flowers usually cost a fortune and, even with the best possible care, last only a few days.  Other than Big Occasions such as weddings, which I’m not about to tackle, I prefer transferring what's already growing in our garden/or local garden center/to the table inside. 

I learned from the best:  Before Martha, there was my tremendously resourceful/incredibly talented friend, Elizabeth. On more than one occasion she would arrive at my house for a meeting and ask what I had in mind for the centerpiece. “You're looking at it,” usually didn't fly. I was always open to suggestions, particularly from Elizabeth.  

Trowel in hand, she dashed outside and dug up whatever was in bloom. Primroses were packed into baggies, camouflaged with moss, tied with a bit of raffia and arranged around the rabbits already on my table.  Plants were happily transplanted back into the garden after lunch.  All was well.

She also loved creating centerpieces that “spoke to or could interact with” guests.  And on that particular day, she trailed raisins behind one of the bunnies.  Makes me smile thinking of the reactions AND, of course, of Elizabeth. 

Today’s photo captures the same concept: Bringing the outdoors in. An old pot lined with an inexpensive plastic tray, a favorite hen and succulents.  They'll go out later this week.  Not in the garbage, as would cut flowers, but back in the garden to enjoy the spring sunshine and rain before coming in again sometime soon for dinner.