Mellow yellow

 

September 9th is National Chrysanthemum Day, a holiday also called the “Festival of Happiness" that originated in Japan a thousand years ago. 

In honor, I bought this gold one at QFC this morning. Yesterday at Costco, they had those barrel sized pots as usual, tempting, but almost impossible to get home in with all the other random stuff piled in your cart and car.

The flower symbolizes happiness and joy, but will forever remind of me a short story from way back in my English major days called "The Odour of Chrysanthemums," by D.H. Lawrence. A poignant tale about 19th century coal mining in England and a sad relationship. Don't read it unless you're already depressed.

Today is overcast again, but yesterday turned out to be nice after all. I did some light cleanup and pruned back the roses covered in black spot, usual for this time of year. The clock is running out on these warm afternoons and the yard was sure mellow in the soft September light.