In Honor of Melvin & Mary Howard

The most majestic Magnolia tree, to me, will forever be Melvin and Mary Howard's lovely specimen that stood proud and regal, in their front yard. As a child & teen growing up, I was forever drawn to our next door neighbor retiree couple: Mel & Mary. Mel was always in his blue coveralls and a cowboy hat ...his wife Mary was his shadow, usually not far behind, joining in with an encouraging head nod accompanied by a smile, scowel if she didn't agree with Mel, or a full-bodied laugh that was contagious to all nearby. If you had a little time on your hands, a cruise down to Whataburger for fresh fries was but a conversation away... Just head over to the white picket fence and ask Mel what's up. They were a major cornerstone piece in the development of my plant obsession. I owe much of my knowledge to them both and will forever have the fondest of memories. Hopefully one day, I too will take on the mantle of the quirky neighbor with the knowledge of plants and share what I know with the local kids.

Hurry up Spring, I'm over Winter

This was started the evening of the super bowl. I wasn't feeling the football spirit and wanted to do something that would remind me of the spring just a few weeks away. The white petals are so voluminous and pure. I wanted to capture the light and purple blush that always seems to tinge several varieties of this delightful tree.