"Each time a flower blooms, 
the world is reminded 
that there is beauty 
in new beginnings.”

-Matshona Dhliwayo 

A blooming flower is also a reminder that there are new beginnings. 

The pink mandevilla flower in today's photo is the first bloom on that arbor in two years. 

For several years prior to that, the arbor was covered with thriving vines producing a profusion of magnificent flowers. A hard frost ended that. 

I tried to removed the lifeless vines curled around the columns and lattice strips. But the vines were also entwined around wires and lights that made the arbor magical at night, and I didn't want to risk cutting the wires, so I left the vines in place.

A few days ago, I noticed a leaf on a portion of vine that seemed to be plumping back to life. Then, another leaf appeared. And, another. 

And yesterday, this flower.

There are so many reasons to hope for new beginnings, for healings, for harmony, and for peace. 

With love and hope,
Charlene

  THE FIFTH GIFT IS HOPE.    

Through each passage and season

may you trust the goodness of life.    
- from THE TWELVE GIFTS OF BIRTH