Raindrops on Petals: a photo essay

   Photo Essay Contest

A few days ago I woke to a photographer's dream. It had rained all night, and by dawn the sun broke through to herald a brilliant day. 

These tree peonies, a gift from a good friend who needed to rescue them from the deer that frequently feast in his gardens, came alive in the sunlight. I wanted to morph into the images, and nestle inside the softly drenched petals.  

Here's a view from the morning before. Each blossom is about 8-10 inches across! 

A smaller bud. 

Top view. I promise, this is the last one, but I couldn't stop taking photos of these amazing flowers!

I continued on to the pansies. I had purchased orange and white to mix together like a Creamsicle. ;o) Shades of childhood invading my gardens, huh? Anyway, this lone yellow/apricot/plum pansy had sneaked into the mix, and I loved its individuality!

   Here are the apricot pansies.

A shot from the day before, sans sun and rain. But you can get an idea how the colors will mix. Do you like it?

Around the corner to one of the iris beds. This gorgeous white lady greeted me.

 "Look into my eyes..."  Hypnotic, isn't she?

 And her petticoats are so graceful...

This is a grape iris - small blossoms, but hardy and the fragrance is reminscent of Grape Lifesavers!! No kidding! It really smells just like them! If anyone wants some, I will share. I have tons and they need to be divided in July. Just let me know.  

This is another purple variety, I wish I knew the names, like Peter G, but I only seem to remember tulip names! LOL! I guess that's because I order the tulips individually, and my iris are always ordered in collections. 

This english daisy doesn't have raindrops on it, but I thought it was neat how the petals grew right out of the center!!

 I promised you a shot of the Alba bleeding hearts. Here they are!

Two days ago I was still waiting. This morning I woke to orange and red poppies! But I've run out of time, must get ready for work.  Been at this since four AM! Stay tuned for more iris, poppies, tree peonies, and regular peonies. 

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In addition to a passion for photography, Aaron Lazar works as an engineer by day, but can be found on weekends in his gardens with his two toddler sidekicks, grandsons Julian and Gordon. His passion lies in writing, where he has created eleven books with characters of depth, color and substance. Lazar entices readers with intricate plots, lush imagery, breathless action, gourmet meals, classical music, bountiful gardens and surprising romantic moments.  

Mr. Lazar also writes monthly columns for the Futures Mystery Anthology Magazine, Voice in the Dark newsletter, and has been published often in Absolute Write. He lives in Upstate NY with his extended family. Visit his websites at www.legardemysteries.com; www.mooremysteries.com, and his blog at www.aaronlazar.blogspot.com.