Orange Blossom Special

Citrus blossoms emit a delicate, sweet aroma with floral undertones that are reminiscent of springtime and renewal. The scent is often described as fresh, clean, and uplifting, evoking feelings of joy and optimism. Fragrant citrus blossoms have been associated with various therapeutic benefits, including stress relief, mood enhancement, and relaxation. In aromatherapy, citrus essential oils derived from the blossoms are used to promote mental clarity, uplift the spirit, and alleviate anxiety and depression.

I love visiting southwestern Arizona and California in March when the groves are bursting with new blooms. For many people, the smell of citrus blossoms triggers fond memories of leisurely strolls through orchards and sunny days spent outdoors. For me, the scent evokes childhood memories of an orange blossom flower water that my mother kept for special occasions in her perfume collection. These positive associations contribute to the appeal of the scent and evoke a sense of nostalgia and happiness. The complex aroma of citrus blossoms is composed of various volatile organic compounds, including terpenes, aldehydes, esters, and alcohols. These compounds contribute to the distinctive fragrance of the blossoms and interact with olfactory receptors in the nose to create a pleasant sensory experience. I have found it difficult to find a synthetic citrus blossom candle or incense that replicates exactly the distinctive fragrance of an orchard in full bloom!

Citrus blossoms produce their enticing scent primarily to attract pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and other insects. The fragrance serves as a signal to these pollinators that the flowers are open and ready for pollination, thereby ensuring the reproductive success of the citrus trees.

I am neither a bee nor a butterfly but I love the smell of citrus blossoms because of its delightful combination of floral, fresh, and therapeutic qualities, as well as its ability to evoke positive memories and associations. Whether enjoyed in the context of a walk through a citrus grove or as a component of aromatherapy, the scent of citrus blossoms has a universal appeal that continues to captivate and enchant me.

There's a Kind of Hush

In the depths of January here on Cape Cod, gardens take on a different guise. Gone are the vibrant hues of blooming hydrangeas and the verdant greenery of our pine-oak forests. What remains when the earth lies still beneath a blanket of frost is a landscape stripped bare, seemingly devoid of life. Yet, if we look closer, we can uncover a profound metaphor hidden within the hush of the winter garden—one that speaks to the rest and rejuvenation we all crave.

The notion of rest can feel foreign, even counterintuitive, in a world that often glorifies constant productivity and perpetual motion. As the garden surrenders to the rhythm of the seasons, let’s learn to honor the natural rhythm of our life, allowing ourselves to pause and recharge amidst the hustle and bustle of daily living. Winter teaches us that periods of dormancy are not only necessary but essential for growth.

Think about it: beneath the frozen earth, roots lie dormant, conserving energy and preparing for the eventual resurgence of spring. Similarly, in our own lives, moments of stillness allow us the chance to replenish our energy and ponder our journey. It is during these times of repose that we have the opportunity to reflect, recalibrate, and reconnect with ourselves on a deeper level.

A winter garden invites us to cultivate this sense of mindfulness and presence. When we feel pulled in so many different directions, the stillness of winter offers a rare opportunity to simply be—to savor the beauty of the moment without the distraction of constant busyness. By immersing ourselves in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the winter garden, we can awaken to the inherent richness of the present moment, finding solace and serenity amidst the routines of hectic schedules.

So as you embrace the peacefulness of winter, remember the wisdom of the garden. Nurture your inner landscape, allowing space for renewal, reflection, and ultimately, the blossoming of your whole, true self. For in the stillness of winter, we find the seeds of our greatest potential, waiting patiently to be awakened.

Birthday Reflections

Turning forty-fifteen seems important, not least because I am now eligible for the seniors’ menu at IHOP. I am so very, very grateful for another trip around the sun and the generosity of friends reaching out to wish me a happy birthday. Thank you.

When I was in third grade, Mrs. Dickau was teaching us how to write letters and fill out cheques (?) and she mentioned that all of the pre-printed cheques would have to change from ____ , 19__ because of the 21st century approaching. This big idea stuck in my brain and I became fearful that I would not live past the changing of the century. Well, these past 23 years have been filled with lots of living and loving and this childhood memory makes me even more grateful for this birthday.

 My wonderful husband woke up early yesterday and took the dog out first so I could stay in bed longer. When I came into the kitchen, I discovered a beautiful love letter from him. After cooking my favorite breakfast, he returned to the garden to finish building a rabbit-proof fence to protect the flowerbeds and I headed out to the first of two doctor appointments. What better gift to myself on my birthday than the gift of healthcare?

 A former colleague, same age as me, passed away earlier this week after a complicated struggle. Each year on his birthday, he would ask all of us to consider buying a cup of coffee for a stranger and then write to him with the story of what happened next. How did the stranger respond? Did a new friendship emerge? How did this act of kindness make the world a better place?

 While Joe and I are not perfect (we still get grumpy about imperfect situations), we consciously strive to be kind in our relationships. Driving across the U.S. this spring we continue to be amazed witnessing the helpfulness of strangers, from the mechanic who assisted us in El Paso to the night clerk at the small budget motel in West Virginia. One server offered to pack up a whole new meal when I asked for a to-go box for my leftovers. It all adds up!

 However you choose to celebrate getting older, my hope is that practicing kindness gets reflected back to you. I am privileged to have so much love in my life and I appreciate all of the birthday messages sent my way.