Sun in My Face

Mary Oliver, one of my favorite poets, starts today’s 11th day of 26 days of kindness. “Hello, sun in my face. Hello you who made the morning and spread it over the fields...Watch, now, how I start the day in happiness, in kindness.” On this day after Thanksgiving, do not forget to begin your day in happiness, in kindness to honor James Mattioli. He enjoyed many activities such as swimming, baseball, basketball and playing on his iPad.

On this 11th day of kindness to honor James, I chose this perennial, Russian Sage, Perovskia atriplicifolia from the archived images. Though it may be difficult to see the beautiful flush of lavender-blue flower spikes in the August light, this is one of those perennials you can spot growing in some of the most difficult of places. Drought tolerant and deer resistant, the Russian Sage blooms profusely throughout the summer months. It thrives in full sun and for a plant combination works well with ornamental grasses, succulents and Drift® Roses. It is equally as beautiful growing tall all by itself. 

On this November morning, as the sun shines brightly, it reminds me of this beautiful flush of lavender-blue flower spikes and aromatic foliage reaching high in the August 14th sun. It reminds me that when you start your day in happiness, you can spot kindness in the most difficult of places. Make this day after Thanksgiving brighter with a splash of kindness and summer sunshine in honor of James.    

Click on the links for the event and FB page for the 26 days of kindness. Start your day in happiness, in kindness. Keep the sun in your face.

Image by Ann Bilowz © Russian Sage, Perovskia atriplicifolia

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