Peonies are probably my favorite flower, though I do adore Roses and Lilly of the Valley almost but not quite as much. A large reason for my love is the fragrance—there is nothing more intoxicating to me than the aroma of peonies in my garden. Bought from a florist they are just as beautiful, but never quite as heady as when found au naturel. The fragrance is so strong that the air surrounding the garden just wafts with the heavenly scent. During my childhood, peonies were everywhere in my hometown of Roosevelt, NJ. In June, soon-to-be graduates would go around town and pick the bountiful blossoms from friend’s homes to decorate the RPS graduation ceremony. When I smell a peony I am immediately bought back to those days. They make me happy.
Peonies are perfect for weddings and are often used in bouquets and centerpieces and any and everywhere in a wedding. This is not surprising because the peony represents riches and good fortune, a happy marriage and a happy life. How can you argue with their delicate and frilly shape, yummy perfume, pretty red, pink or white colors and optimistic meaning?
By the Peonies
By Czeslaw Milosz
The peonies bloom, white and pink.
And inside each, as in a fragrant bowl,
A swarm of tiny beetles have their conversation,
For the flower is given to them as their home.
Mother stands by the peony bed,
Reaches for one bloom, opens its petals,
And looks for a long time into peony lands,
Where one short instant equals a whole year.
Then lets the flower go. And what she thinks
She repeats aloud to the children and herself.
The wind sways the green leaves gently
And speckles of light flick across their faces.
The charms of the ordinariness soothe the threat of anxiety.
XOXO Rachel
Wondrance 