Magnolias and mothers...

I kept thinking I had a better photo of a magnolia blossom in full platter-sized regalia, and somewhere amongst the myriad of pictures I've taken at Bayou Bend, it seems to have hidden itself.

We are two days away from Mothers' Day - one of those Hallmark holidays meant to sell cards, flowers, chocolates, and brunches. However, being a mother myself, I have to say I do appreciate it. The celebration doesn't have to be a huge thing. Being together with your own mom, or as a mom, or celebrated by those to whom you have been like a mother - these are all simple pleasures.

So today, I send you a picture of what is blooming in the gardens these days. The blossom of a tree, no less. Interestingly enough, when I researched what the magnolia is said to symbolize, these were the words that were used:

Splendid beauty and dignity. Perseverance. Nobility. Sweetness. With love for nature.

Hmmm. Actually sounds like qualities of many of the mothers I know. What a coincidence, right? Happy Mothers' Day!