“Flowers… are a proud assertion that a ray of beauty outvalues all the utilities of the world.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

It’s funny sometimes to think amidst the busyness of work, family, appointments, kids’ practices and games, about slowing down. Most of the year, out of necessity, I’m moving too fast. Busyness becomes a routine, and it almost becomes comfortable to be always in motion. But summer brings with it another pace, and this year I’m welcoming slowing down wholeheartedly.

Summer Gardens

When I can spend a few moments outside, it changes my perspective. This summer, my flower gardens have been bursting with blooms.

The color of a group of daylilies and the profusion of tall garden phlox, a serendipity I love.

And of course, the butterflies (here, a Great Spangled Fritillary) upon the echinacea…

And the hummingbirds.

Dale Carnegie was right when he said:

“One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon — instead of enjoying the roses blooming outside our windows today.”

Hoping you have the chance to slow down and soak up summer and its beauty this week.