Clematis, The Charm of Summer Stars

" Oh, I could dance and sing for joy that the spring is here!

What a resurrection of beauty there is in my garden,

and of brightest hope in my heart. "

attributed to ELIZABETH VON ARNIM, 1866 - 1941

And here it is the month of June—at last! Although we had two nights of near freezing temperatures earlier this week, the thermometer predictions promise warmer days and nights ahead. The tulips have given us a delightful display this spring, our perennials are greening beautifully, and now the lilacs and peonies are busy setting their blooms.

Then there is the 'Ernest Markham' clematis which I want to showcase today. We overwintered it in a patio container in our garage and it's now much farther along than the clematis plants in the garden. We are marveling at its many blooms so early in the season. With hand size magenta-red blossoms, ruffled edges, and buttery yellow centres, it makes me want to dance and sing for joy. And I agree with Elizabeth von Arnim when she declares the resurrection of beauty in her garden brightens the hope in her heart. Oh, yes, I find it so! For you today, here are five pretty poses for our Five on Friday segment:

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" It isn't the big pleasures that count the most;

it's making a big deal out of the little ones. "

JEAN WEBSTER, 1876 - 1916

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" What is one to say about June, the time of perfect young summer,

the fulfillment of the promise of the earlier months, and with as yet

no sign to remind one that its fresh young beauty will ever fade. "

GERTRUDE JEKYLL, 1843-1932

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" It is the month of June,

the month of leaves and roses,

when pleasant sights salute the eyes,

and pleasant scents the noses. "

NATHANIEL PARKER WILLIS, 1806 - 1867

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" 'Cause a little bit of summer is

what the whole year is about. "

JOHN MAYER, American singer/songwriter

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" June is bustin' out all over. "

OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II, 1945

There you have it—summer stars on a vine, my little touch of heaven. Hope you felt the sparkle in your heart today.

Wishing you a beautiful weekend ahead.

And if you're marking the Queen's Platinum Jubilee

in some special way, happy celebrations!

Brenda

    

Photos: Brenda