Summer set lip to earth’s bosom bare,
And left the flushed print in a poppy there.
-Francis Thompson
Last week, I happened to drive a different road and discovered the most beautiful field of poppies. At the time, I couldn’t stop to take a photograph, but I couldn’t wait to return with my camera. And so, since the field ended up only being 2 minutes from our house, I have been back several times. There is something about a vast expanse of something that simply takes my breath away. It doesn’t matter if it’s simply laying on a blanket and watching a vast robin’s egg sky, or if it’s the ocean, or a grain field, or a view from a mountain, to me, there is something intangibly refreshing.
The really amazing thing about Czech Republic and the city and surroundings of Prague is that they nurture a large percentage of green spaces in and near the city. We live just on the edge of the city, where the old Communist farm style still prevails. So, this poppy field edges right up to the cliff overlooking the Vltava River Valley and Prague. It’s amazing, evident in this photo:
There is one phrase I learned from a dear friend many years ago that perfectly embraces the experience of stumbling upon the poppy field: “Catch the joy as it flies.”
Which means, life is tough, and the heartaches are many. But, if we are aware in each moment, we can have the pleasure of catching the joys as they come. One of the best parts of life.
This week, Catch the joy as it flies. I hope you stumble upon many a stunning poppy field!
Next week, photos from a trip into the Alps, and the week after, Sweden. Happy Summer, friends!
Jennifer –
The beauty of the pictures makes me smile as does the writing. The pictures make me want to hop on a plane to Europe and play in the field.
I must say though I have my favorites…The Frills of a Poppy and Delicate white poppy. I love the soft backgrounds in the first and the broken white poppy standing tall with it imperfections and glorious white body streaked with purple beauty
Not sure you know, but I have pictures of poppies in my powder room and love them as well as a painting of a poppy field in the hall (I purchased in Italy).
I tried for 3 years to get poppies to grow in my yard unsuccessfully, but this year I finally have a few! Crazy to think how long it took me when they grow wild all over there.
Catch the joy and fly with the wind my friend!
Thank you, Jill!
So glad you enjoyed it! Have a great summer.
-Jennifer