Strength in gentleness

 
This gorgeous little flower has mysteriously appeared in our garden this year. It’s tiny - the full bloom less than 2cm across - but it’s so full of delicious little details: tight buds of florets in the centre, just waiting to burst open, tiny  pinkish stars embedded round the centre, and minute bright trumpets on the end of slender seemingly tubular petals. 

This is Jasione perennis, otherwise known as Sheep’s-bit and symbolising  delicacy and daintiness. Continuing with Wednesday’s the theme of other-worldliness, ‘the flower's ethereal beauty made it a favorite in various ceremonies and rituals dedicated to nature spirits’, and ‘In rural parts of Europe, it was also seen as a symbol of endurance and resilience, thriving in tough meadow conditions, representative of strength in gentleness.’. I do love the language and symbolism of flowers! 

No concerts today; rather, the day is dedicated to preparing for our weekend in London. Those familiar with my journal will know just how much I detest packing. The biggest challenge today is what to wear for Monday’s wedding. Of course, it’s a very low-key affair, but I want to look appropriately dressed (Simon has said to wear whatever I feel comfortable in). I try on numerous combinations, taking selfies of the results hoping this will help me make up my mind. G’s little help, saying everything works well. Ultimately, I reject a few and return  them to the wardrobe, packing several possible combinations! 

The final packing will take place on Saturday morning before our 7.45 train!