#all i can list are flowers that would be bad: roses (too common) tulips (too common) pansies (effeminate men) violet (sapphic)

[chemicalarospec]

omg guys you know what we need? an aroace flower. Not one that necessarily means "stay away", just "not looking", but then we can have like different variants or colors for non-partnering and grey-aroace and orientated aroace and stuff. That'd be so cool.

[extremelyblackandwhite]

timeless - 05

PAIRING: medieval!james “bucky” barnes x reader

WARNINGS: mentions of wounds (bleeding)

A/N: today the only highlight of my day was spin class and whenever i get upset i just write, as hamilton would say, like i’m running out of time. enjoy xx

NEXT CHAPTER

Y/N decided that the best way to get her mind off her delirious daydreaming which would surely throw her straight into the deepest and darkest hole in Hell was to go and visit her mother. After all, she was almost sure she would still be upset over Odette throwing her out and Y/N would never dare to make her mother unhappy. Therefore, with a basket holding a few left over treats from the breakfast she had run off from, she made her way to her mother’s living quarters. Once she came in, unlike other times, her mother merely stared her down as if she was a misbehaving child, eyes so glossy and cold one would believe she were dead were it not for the misty fog coming out of her nose every time she breathed.

     - Mother... - Y/N started but Lady Catherine quickly interrupted her.

     - What did I clearly said when we left Arendelle? - she looked down at her daughter, eyes so cold and icy it could kill anyone who looked directly into it, something Y/N didn’t dare to do, choosing instead to look at her feet. - What were you not to do? Why could you not obey?

    - Mother, I am ...

   - What have I been to you? What would you have me be? - she dismissed her child’s pleas, instead returning to sit on her chair. - Ah, but I’m old and ugly and I embarrass you.

    - Mother no.  - Y/N held her hands tenderly. - You could never embarrass me. 

    - You’re ashamed of me. You are ashamed. 

    - No. - Y/N shook her head violently. - But I ... I want to see the world by myself, have my own experiences. 

    - The world ... - the woman sighed, almost disgusted at the word. - You don’t know what’s out there in the world and someone needs to shield you from the world. Men like the one who seems to caught your eye waits in the world but you must know what masks they wear for the world. 

   - I know, mother. I know I was just being polite.

   - Oh darling let’s just return with home. Stay with me who could love you more than I? No one can love you more than I and the world is dark and wild for someone like you. The world has nothing that I cannot supply. - Lady Catherine combed through Y/N’s locks with her fingers. - Stay innocent to the dark things of the world while you can. 

    - But I promised I would stay with Odette to help her throughout the engagement. I gave her my word. - the young woman looked up to her mother, the conflicting of interests clearly fighting in her head. - I ... We ... we can return after the wedding. 

    - Oh, darling ... - Catherine cupped her face, a soft smile on her lips. - You know all I do, I do to shield you from the bad things of the world.

Y/N merely stared at her feet as her mother combed through her hair. She felt guilty, no, guilt couldn’t even describe how she felt. It was almost as if a weight was placed on her consciousness. She remained still in her seating position as her mother continued with her “you don’t know what’s out there in the world” mantra. It was true, Y/N didn’t know what was out there in the world but she wanted to see it yet something always stopped her. Her mother. If Y/N left, she would have no one left and Y/N would feel way to guilty to leave.

Time seemed to stop whenever she was around her mother so the guilt seemed to linger and somehow kept lingering as she returned to the Princess’ quarters to help her prepare for the tournament. Between hair braiding and helping with the picking of the dress, Y/N was lost in her mind. Maybe her mother was right, maybe she needed to be shielded from the world, after all whenever she was left alone in it she had way too many ...  perverse thoughts. 

     - You’re quiet, Y/N. - Eliza mentioned, eyes glued onto the mirror as she applied more rouge to her cheeks. - It’s a tournament, get excited.

     - Y/N hates tournaments. - Odette had a cheeky smile on her face. - She thinks they’re blatant demonstrations of toxic male virility. 

     - Maybe you’ll change your mind, after all Duke Barnes is participating in the tournament. - she put her tongue out, a little childish like wonder in her face. The princess’ face however tensed and with a low tone she asked Eliza to leave her and Y/N alone. - I’ll see you in the boxes. 

The two nodded as the silent embraced the room birthed by the sound of the door closing. Odette sighed, getting up from her setting position with a tense face, every line clearly creased and marked on her normally beautifully young plump face which seemed to make everyone around her smile. Yet, now, it just looked ... worried even. 

The princess pointed at the chair she had been sat in, an unspoken request for having Y/N take her place which she did without much question. Grabbing the silver brush from the side, she started to brush her hair, pulling it up in one of the flower like hairstyles.

     - Rosaline mentioned Duke Barnes went after you after you cut your finger. Is there anything you want to tell me? - she carefully pushed some hairs in front of her face to rest on top of some lilies resting on her hair. 

     - He’s just being polite, Odette.

     - Y/N, you know I adore you like a sister and as such I don’t want to see you hurt. Duke Barnes has never, never shown affection towards anyone and the only person whom he seems to trust is Rosaline. I’m afraid that he might try to take advantage of you. - she settled down the brush, placing her hands on her shoulders before lowering down. - You don’t deserve heartache and disrespect.

     - I think you might be too kind to rule Genoa. - Y/N tried to break the atmosphere which seemed to work as Odette laughed. 

The two ladies took to starting to walk to their own box, outside in the rainy nature of Genoa. She looked down from her box, seeing the swarm of men interested in showing their abilities, willing to woe as many ladies as they could, yet Y/N seemed unfazed by it. However, her attention quickly shifted as James walked the field dressed in dark burgundy clothing with his sharpened long sword in hand. Had she been paying attention to anything else, she would’ve heard Odette’s warnings yet every single warning, every shred of common sense seemed to vanish into thin air whenever she looked at him. There was just something about him, a warmness, a sense of belonging, like seeing a very old childhood friend and while she couldn’t exactly understand it, she didn’t know if she wanted to understand it.

Just like Rosaline had said before, he was a skilled swordsmen, defeating his very first adversaries without breaking a sweat or even trying and she was completely enchanted by him. The way his body moved, how his perfectly tied back hair would come undone, she kept wondering what it would feel to brush her hands through it and as she lost herself more and more in him, the scent was back. The white rose scent. 

The scent itself was enough to throw her off her glare on him, instead turning around to try and find someone with roses in their hair but nothing. Lilies, baby’s breathes, tulips, but no roses. She had first thought that he wore some cologne with that scent but it would be near impossible for her to smell it with him being that far. 

Her mind was so wrapped around the white roses she didn’t realise that he had started to struggle. Standing against one of the king’s men, she noticed how he would overpower him by kicking sand into his eyes and her heart started to beat faster. Hands clutched at the stone of the box as she watched the match, the loud sound of swords making her eyes tear. Yet, she didn’t know pain until the clinging ceased and instead a loud grunt was heard. Things seemed to stop, go incredibly slow, the way his knees hit the ground, the dust that settled and her getting up, only being stopped by Odette putting a hand on her stomach. 

Her breathing speeded up before completely stopping for a few minutes, time running slower and slower until it speed up as he got back on his feet, disarming the man of throwing him into the ground which sent the crowd into a frenzy of applause. Y/N’s heart seemed to return to beating as the maidens presented the Duke with a crown of blue hyacinths. However, unlike other tournaments, they didn’t seem to crown him with it, instead handing it to him.

    - Why didn’t they crown him? - she asked Eliza, a hand in front of her mouth as not to call for much attention.

    - It’s a Genoan tradition. They don’t crown the winner, they allow him to pick a woman of the crowd whom he believes to be the Queen of Love and Beauty. Rosaline tends to get it whenever Lord Barnes wins. 

    - Queen of Love and Beauty? Don’t you think it’s a bit childish? - she smirked as she saw him walk towards Rosaline. 

    - It makes the Princess happy. - she shrugged and Y/N nodded, it wasn’t her place to judge their traditions. 

Her eyes lingered back to James who was standing in front of the King’s box where Rosaline was sat. Yet, instead of slowing down his pace, he continued to walk much to the crowd surprise until he stood in front of her box. Every single person seemed to watch intently, expecting the Duke to crown the guest, Odette, as the Queen of Love and Beauty. 

Y/N smiled, happy at the thought of her friend receiving the honour but instead, without much thought, the noblesman’s arm stretched to place the crown on her lap.

tag list: @lookiamtrying​​​​​ @kmuir1​​​​​ @anxiousdreamersworld​​​​​ @tinymalscoffee​​​​​ @navegandoaciegas​​​​ @cinnabanuxoxo

[avengers1shots]

New Beginnings

Steve Rogers x Reader

It was a quiet day in the shop the first day you met him. You hadn’t been working there long, but you already had a way of identifying customers from the moment they walked in the door. It was one of the reasons you loved flowers, they drive human connection and emotion in such powerful ways. The excited-nervousness of a first date bouquet or corsage, the confident anniversary arrangement, the just-because, the list goes on. And as soon as the door chimes and you see him for the first time, you know why he’s there. There’s conflict on his face, grief weighing down his shoulders as he slowly approaches the desk. You offer a kind smile as a means of consolement as he takes a pause, gathering his thoughts before clearing his throat and speaking. 

“Could I get a dozen- two dozen roses please?” 

“Would you like the thorns cut?” You ask as you begin carefully collecting the flowers. 

“Uh, no you can leave them on.” He instructs, a hint of a smile passing over his face for a moment as you quickly put together the shop’s most common arrangement and proceed to payment. 

As you count out his change you catch him staring down at something out of view, clearly not present. 

“I’m sorry for your loss.” You speak up gently, holding the bouquet out in one hand and the change in the other, pulling the man back to reality.

“Thank you.” He responds solemnly, dropping the money in your tip jar before carefully taking the flowers and exiting the shop. 

                                                            ~⍟~

Exactly one week later he comes in again, and it catches you by surprise. You don’t manage to hide the expression well as he reacts to it a beat after walking through the door. 

“The flowers wilted.” He clarifies and your heart breaks a little for him as you reach for the roses. 

“How many?” 

                                                            ~⍟~

He comes every Sunday that month for a rose bouquet. You don’t make small talk, it doesn’t feel right to make light of his experience and he doesn’t offer conversation. You premake the arrangement so that he doesn’t even have to ask, there’s sincerity in his eyes when he thanks you. 

However, one sunday afternoon there’s a break in the routine. The normal quiet shop is buzzing with patrons in a Mother’s Day rush. Part of you enjoys the challenge of a busy day (and certainly the tip influx) however it gets exhausting dealing with snappy clients and soon your hands ache from constant work and thorn pricks. The tensions increase tremendously when the shop runs out of roses by early afternoon. So as you’re tying up a tulip arrangement and you hear your coworker inform yet another customer of the shortage you prepare for the worst. But there’s no groan of annoyance or lame joke. That’s when you notice the time, and you look over, and you see him. 

“Is there anything else I could get for you, sir?” Your coworker chirps waiting for him to respond but he just looks lost. You pass off the tulips to the waiting customer and scan the shop. The rush has begun to dwindle with only three customers in line behind him. 

“Why don’t I help you put together a new arrangement?” You offer. He hesitates for a moment then nods. You set down your shears and step out from behind the counter, motioning for him to follow you as you walk towards one of the displays. 

“Is it alright if I ask you some questions?” You inquire cautiously as his eyes scan the wall before landing on you and nodding once again. 

“Is there a particular connection to roses in the relationship?” 

“No, um- not really.” 

“A lot of people go to roses because it’s that universal symbol of love, but there are a lot of other flowers that can represent that. I’d usually only recommend red roses if there’s an additional meaning in the relationship or if you’re looking for something easy. Oh, or if they’re very traditional- was this person a very traditional type?” 

“Not exactly.” His ghost smile returns again and he shakes his head. 

“Well then you have a lot of other options. Flowers all have different meanings. Carnations are common funeral flowers because they stand for remembrance and gratitude. Or if you want you could go more relationship-based. There are some flowers for friends like zinnias, some for lovers like peonies. You could also choose flowers that represent character like the gladiolus which symbolizes strength and integrity. So, do you have any idea what meaning you’d like to aim for?” 

He ponders for a moment, glancing around before taking a small step and looking into a barrel of flowers, plucking one out. 

“What are these?” 

“Asters.” You inform him, taking a step to examine them. 

“I recognize them.” He remarks. 

“Very common in arrangements, but not considered to be focal points. They used to be worn often in the hair like daisies in the 40s and 50s. By the 60s people moved to flower crowns which were usually made of smaller flowers. But asters go back even farther, the Greeks believed they warded off evil and used them as a staple.” 

“What do they represent?” 

“Love and patience. Though the colors can push the meaning one way or another depending on the arrangement. Would you like to work with these?” 

“These would be perfect.” He replies and you wave him over to watch as you put a bouquet together. 

He settles on those for a while. When he comes in it’s not as silent. He’ll implore about the meaning of other flowers, you offer to mix other species, but he only buys asters for three months.

                                                              ~⍟~

He’s gone for awhile. A long while. His visits didn’t slow. He was there once a week until he wasn’t. You think it’s probably for the best, he probably moved on. But a part of you holds on, misses the familiar face. Eventually you move on too. 

It’s late afternoon and you’re leaving work. The clippings have been thrown out, the open sign has been flipped to closed, and the keys are in your hand when you hear a shout. 

A figure quickly runs towards you and your heart speeds up for a moment before his face comes into view and halts right in front of you. 

“Hi.” He breathes. “I didn’t know if you still worked here.” 

You nod, still slightly stunned. 

“I don’t mean to hold you up, but today’s important.” He states. 

You nod again. “Of course, come in.” You say kicking the door back open. He catches it, following in after you. 

“It’s been a long time.” You remark, immediately collecting the familiar flower and crafting the bouquet. “You look good with a beard.” 

“Thanks.” He says, taken aback. “You remembered?” 

“There aren’t a lot of customers who would listen to me ramble on about plant symbolism for months. Plus it’s a pretty non-traditional request.” You reply, handing the bundle over to him. “Where have you been?” 

“Out of New York.” He informs while reaching into his pocket.

“And you came all the way back past closing for these?” You say, amused. 

“A lot has changed in my life, I guess I was looking for something familiar.” He replies earnestly as you place the change in his hand. “I appreciate you taking the time. Thank you.” 

“It’s no trouble.” You wave him off, clearing your work station for the second time. “How long are you in town.” 

“Hard to say.” He responds as you walk out from behind the counter once more and pause. 

“Who are you?” You ask. 

“Steve Rogers.” He informs, putting his hand out. “And you?” 

“(Y/N) (L/N)” You answer, shaking his hand with an amused smile. 

“Well, Thanks again (Y/N).”

“Hope to see you again soon Steve.”

                                                            ~⍟~

Steve comes back a month later. And he is different, but not in a bad way. You can tell when he walks in that he’s not looking for grief flowers. 

“A beautiful day in the neighborhood is it Mr. Rogers?” You jest as he walks in with a smile. 

He cocks his head in confusion as you chuckle lightly. “Nevermind. What’s the occasion?” 

“A gift this time. I was hoping you could help me prepare something for an old friend.” He answers. 

“Any other details?” You ask, racking your brain immediately. 

“Something durable enough to survive a flight.” He states, surprising you. 

“I wouldn’t recommend hardly anything for a long flight; You can’t bring a water vase through TSA.” You inform him. 

“I don’t think that will be a problem.” He replies causing you to chuckle once more. 

“You’re an interesting man, Mr. Rogers.” You remark. “Are you always this vague?” 

“When I-” 

Steve is cut off by the door to the shop being thrown open, two suited men walking with determination up to him. 

“Hello, can I help-.” You begin to greet the gentleman but freeze as they each pull a gun on Steve. 

“Take it easy fellas.” Steve instructs slowly putting his hands up. 

“You shouldn’t have come back to New York, Captain.” One man rebukes. You begin inching towards the back room, not as stealthy as you like as one of them turns and aims his gun at you. “Don’t move.” 

Steve takes a swing at the one who’s gun is still trained on him, catching the man’s wrist as he fires in retaliation and jerking it up so that the hand gun fires into the ceiling. The other man turns away from you and Steve grabs the one who he’s currently struggling with and swings him into the other, causing both men to tumble into a display. The recently-fired weapon skitters across the floor and Steve lunges after it as the fallen men untangle themselves from the perennials. The unarmed man charges Steve who pistol whips him, easily knocking him onto the floor. The other approaches slowly with his gun trained on Steve who raises his own hand-gun to match him. 

“You’re not gonna shoot me.” The man declares as he inches closer. Steve takes a few steps in as well, testing the man as the gap narrows between them. 

“You’re right.” Steve affirms before reeling back and slamming his head against the other man’s, sending him stumbling back into another display. Steve persists, the two exchanging punches, power shifting as they grapple with each other, each being thrown to the floor and bouncing back. Eventually, Steve lands the final blow that knocks the other unconscious. He exhales a breath as he watches the man slump to the ground then moves his gaze towards you. 

“Please, don’t tell anyone I was here.” He requests as the sound of sirens are heard approaching in the distance. You swallow thickly but nod, eyes fixated on him as he bolts from the store with amazing speed. 

You take a few careful steps out from behind the counter and examine the damage inside the shop, still holding your breath as you move between the two fallen men. You notice an old device on the ground amongst the ruined flowers and grab it with a shaky hand.  You examine it, curiosity and anxiety battling in your brain as you inspect it in it’s closed state. Your interest outweighs your rationale as you flip it open, revealing an old compass with a photo attached. The door chimes and you quickly pocket the device as police flood the scene. Your head is spinning in unanswered questions, with one sticking out in particular. 

Who the hell is Steve Rogers? 

                                                            ~⍟~

The shop is closed for a few days to deal with the damages. Thankfully all the destruction was done to products and storing units and not to the structure itself. As soon as supply is restocked and the bullet hole is patched, the business is back up and running. Your boss offers you time off to deal with the shock, but you turn it down, curious to see if or when Steve will show again. After two weeks pass, you start to doubt him ever reappearing as you weigh the circumstances from his end. You also begin to wonder if the compass is worth holding onto, but you bring it to work just in case. 

You’re locking up the shop, with some difficulty as harsh rain from a brewing thunderstorm pelts down at you and causes the keys to slip. The rain is suddenly obstructed and you look over to find Steve standing beside you, holding an umbrella over your head. He’s got on a jacket along with a black cap and glasses and you wonder if that’s supposed to be a low-effort disguise as you turn the lock. 

“I’m sorry.” He speaks first, taking the sunglasses off. “I would never want to put people in danger, especially someone who has been a friend to me.” 

“I’m okay. Though there were some flowers that didn’t make it.” You joke, a smile cracking his solemn expression. 

“I thought you might be angry or afraid, but you’re-”

“Okay, really I am. My boss has insurance.” You assure him. “You’re not who I thought you’d be, Mr. Rogers.” 

“I’m sorry.” He repeats and you shake your head.

“Never said that was a bad thing, Captain.” You reply. “I’ve done my research on you now, and unless either of those guys were also frozen for 70 years, I think this belongs to you.”   

You pull the compass out and press it into his palm, his eyes widen as he opens it. “I thought the agents would’ve taken it in.” 

“I’ve got good eyes.” You shrug. “Let’s just say you owe me one.” 

“I owe you a lot.” He insists, pocketing the compact. “And I’d like to make it up to you. Maybe at dinner, tomorrow?” 

You break into a smile and nod, stepping out from under the umbrella to hail a cab. “You know when I get off.” 

                                                            ~⍟~

He’s cleaned up well when you spot him outside the store a few minutes after closing, and so have you, being out of your work clothing (though the floral scent still sticks to you.) 

He greets you warmly, still in a pseudo-disguise of cap and glasses as he approaches. “Wow, I’ve never seen you without an apron.” 

“Do I lose my charm without the uniform?” 

“I guess we’ll find out by the end of the night.” He teases. “You hungry?”

You smile and nod, falling into step beside him as he leads the way. It’s a short walk before he opens the door to a diner, holding it as you step inside and get seated in a booth. 

“Did you come here as a kid?” You tease as you take in the retro atmosphere of the establishment. 

He rolls his eyes, setting down his menu to look at you. “I had a feeling the old jokes were coming.”

“Am I that predictable or are you just wise in your old age?” 

“Probably both.” He sighs. 

You two quip back and forth throughout the meal. You joke about sharing a milkshake and the waitress plays along until you see Steve’s shoulders tense and declare yourself too full. 

“Do you always come to places like this?” You inquire after a beat of silence (post-battling over the check) 

“Like what?” He responds, casting his eyes towards the table as you shoot him a knowing look. “It’s hard catching up to the world sometimes. I think I do a pretty good job all things considered, but sometimes I miss the way things used to be.” 

“Would you change it?” 

“I try not to think about it like that. I can’t change what’s already happened.” 

“But there’s a lot that you can look forward to.” 

“There’s a lot to enjoy right now.” 

“I agree.” You smile, letting the moment sit before moving to your feet. 

“Okay, Golden Boy, you gotta get me home before curfew or else my dad isn’t going to let me go to the sock hop with you this weekend.” You tease. 

“Alright then.” Steve huffs as he stands up as well, the two of you strolling back in the direction of the shop. You stop at where your car is parked on the street at the storefront and prepare your goodbyes. “I was wondering if I could give you something.” 

“Yeah, sure.” You reply, curious as he dashes off and reappears, handing you a bouquet. 

“White Narcissus.” You remark, carefully taking the flowers in surprise. “Daffodils to most people.” 

“Symbolizing New Beginnings.” He recites, offering you a small smile which you return as you pluck one from the bunch and hand it to him. 

“To New Beginnings.” You echo, staring at him. He leans in first and you let the flowers droop at your side as your lips are caught in a chaste kiss. 

“When’s your flight?” You ask without widening the gap between you. 

“Last week.” He breathes. 

“Go get ‘em Captain.” You joke, patting him on the arm, but the small laugh does nothing to ease his bittersweet smile before he leans in once more. 

“Thank you, for everything.” He says, earnestly as he pulls away again. “I don’t know when I’ll be back in New York but…”

“I’ll see you soon Mr. Rogers.” 

                                                            ~⍟~

- MST ✪

[innerclouds]

more:

Flower Asks

Alisons: Sexuality? Ends with an "I".

Amaranth: Pronouns/Gender?

Yeah no.

Amaryllis: Birthday?

Eventually.

Anemone: Favorite flower?

Irises/Roses.

Angelonia: Favorite t.v. show?

Recently? Good omens was bretty gud.

Arum-Lily: What’s the farthest you’d go for a stranger?

5ft.

Aster: What’s one of your favorite quotes?

None in particular.

Aubrieta: Favorite drink?

Water, black tea, black coffee, root beer, ginger ale, Dr. pepper.

Baby’s Breath: Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?

e-kisses, yes. But I'd prefer real.

Balsam Fir: Have you ever been in love?

Yes.

Baneberries: Favorite song?

None currently.

Basket of Gold: Describe your family.

Split in two.

Beebalm: Do you have a best friend? Who is it?

Bae.

Begonia: Favorite color?

Gray, black, blue, purple.

Bellflower: Favorite animal?

Shark.

Bergenia: Are you a morning or night person?

Owl.

Black-Eyed Susan: If you could be any animal for a day, what would it be?

Bloodroots: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Paleontologist, vet.

Bluemink: What are your thoughts on children?

Noisy, grabby sprats.

Blazing Stars: What are you afraid of? Is there a reason why?

Lots of things, yes and no.

Borage: Give a random fact about your childhood.

I was the weird nature/rocks/animals kid.

Bugleherb: How would you spend your last day on Earth?  

I've answered this.

Buttercup: Relationship Status?

Bae.

Camelia: If you could visit anywhere, where would you want to go?

I've answered this too.

Candytufts: When do you feel most loved?

Cuddling.

Canna: Do you have any tattoos?  

No.

Canterbury Bells: Do you have any piercings?  

No.

California Poppy: Height?  

Smol.

Cardinal Flower: Do you believe in ghosts?

In a manner.

Carnation: What are you currently wearing?  

Pink Floyd prism pants and brother's band logo t-shirt.

Catnip: Have you ever slept with a nightlight?

When I was very small, yes.

Chives: Who was the last person you hugged?  

Bae.

Chrysanthemum: Who’s the last person you kissed?

Bae.

Cock’s Comb: Favorite font?

Victorian parlor.

Columbine: Are you tired?

Very.

Common Boneset: What are you looking forward to?

Answered this.

Coneflower: Dream job?

See above.

Crane’s-Bill: Introvert or extrovert?

Intro.

Crocus: Have you ever been in love?

You asked this already.

Crown Imperial: What’s the farthest you would go for someone you care about?

Quite far.

Cyclamen: Did you have a favorite stuffed animal as a child? What was it?

Yes. Maggie.

Daffodil: What’s your zodiac sign?

Rat.

Dahlia: Have you done anything worth remembering?

Possibly.

Daisy: What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

Bit personal.

Daylily: What would you do if your parents didn’t like your partner(s)?  

Too bad, I don't pick a partner to please them.

Dendrobium: Who is the last person that you said “I love you” to?

Bae, though not quite the same wording.

False Goat’s Beard: What is something you are good at?

Complaining.

Foxgloves: What’s something you’re bad at?

Self praise and self confidence.

Freesia: What are three good things that have happened in the past month?

Something game related, something personal related, something food related.

Garden Cosmos: How was your day today?

Mildly irritating.

Gardenia: Are you happy with where you’re at in your life?

Depends.

Gladiolus: What is something you hope to do in the next year or two?

Long list.

Glory-of-the-Snow: What are ten things that make you happy/you’re grateful to have in your life?

See too personal.

Heliotropium: What helps you calm down when you feel stressed?  

Naps, chatting, certain asmrs.

Hellebore: How do you show affection?

Gifts.

Hoary Stock: What are you proudest of?

I've answered this.

Hollyhock: Describe your ideal day.

I've answered this.

Hyacinth: What do you like to do in your free time?  

Sleep.

Hydrangea: How long have you known your best friend? How did you meet them?

I've answered this.

Irises: Who can you talk to about (almost) everything?

Bae.

Laceleaf: How many friends do you have?

No idea.

Lantanas: What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

Drawing related.

Larkspur: What do you think of yourself?

Mostly negatives with some positives sprinkled in.

Lavender: What’s your favorite thing about yourself?

Hair.

Leather Flower: What’s your least favorite thing about yourself?  

Fill in all the blanks.

Lilac: What’s something you liked to do as a child?

Pretend I was a dinosaur.

Lily: Who was your best friend when you were a kid?

Didn't have any of those.

Lily of the Incas: What is something you still feel guilty for?

Too personal.

Lily of the Nile: What is something you feel guilty for that you shouldn’t feel guilty about?  

Accidentally'd a class pet.

Lupine: What does your name mean? Why is that your name?

"Noose". No joke, that's one of the meanings. No, I've never been happy about it. iirc great grandma wanted my name to be what it is, not for that specific meaning mind you.

Marigold: Where did you grow up? Tell us about it.

Small castle on a hill with a pond and a miniature forest behind it.

Morning Glory: What was your bedroom like growing up?

Messy.

Mugworts: What was it like for you as a teenager? Did you enjoy your teenage years?

*nam flashbacks* No I did not.

Norwegian Angelica: Tell us about your mom.

Reluctant turned mother bear.

Onions: Tell about your dad.  

Nonexistent.

Orchid: Tell about your grandparents.

Best.

Pansy: What was your most memorable birthday? What made it be so memorable?

I got one of those giant, original JP t-rex toys.

Peony: What was your first job?

Uncomfortable.

Petunia: If you’re in a relationship, how did you meet your partner(s)? If you’re not in a relationship, how did you meet your crush/how do you hope to meet your future partner(s), if you want any?

Outside of an inn in a snowy clearing by a campfire.

Pincushion: How do you deal with pain?

Ignore it until it gets too much then complain while chugging pain pills.

Pink: Where is home?

Somewhere far away.

Plantain Lilies: If you could go back in time, what is one thing you would stop/change?

Beat some sense into my past self.

Prairie Gentian: Who is someone you look up to? Describe them.

Bae. Bae is best bae.

Primrose: Describe your ideal life.

I've answered this.

Rhodendron: What is something you used to believe in as a child?

That we'd have cloned dinosaur pets, flying cars and those microwaved pill-food things from back to the future by now.

Ricinus: Who’s the most important in your life?

Bae, siblings.

Rose: What’s your favorite sound?

Rain, water, wind through leaves.

Rosemallows: What’s your favorite memory?

Lots of those.

Sage: What’s your least favorite memory?

See above.

Snapdragon: At this moment, what do you want?  

Triple cheese burger with onion rings and a large chocolate milkshake.

St. John’s Wort: Is it easy or difficult for you to express how you feel about things?

The latter.

Sunflower: What is something you don’t want to imagine life without?

Air.

Sweet Pea: How much sleep did you get last night?

Not enough.

Tickseed: What’s your main reason to get up every morning?

Not being broke.

Touch-Me-Not: How do you feel about your current job?

Meh.

Transvaal Daisy: What’s your favorite item of clothing?

Shirts.

Tropical White Morning Glory: Describe your aesthetic.  

Non existent.

Tulip: What would be the best present to get you?

Not sure, I'm not picky but I appreciate the thought more.

Vervain: What’s stressing you out most right now?

Long list.

Wisteria: How many books have you read in the past few months? What were they called?

I don't think I've picked up a book in about a year or more.

Wolf’s Bane: Where do you want to be in life this time next year?

Somewhere north.

Yarrow: Do you know what vore is?

Yes.

Zinnia: Give a random fact about yourself.

I think I had a mild case of caffeine overdose once.

[eccentricwearsgoggles]

All the emoji questions thank

oh darn fine okay aifklsjfklds under cut because it was a lot of questions

🐰- do you believe in soul mates? I don’t believe in like… destiny or fate. But I feel like people can meet and be right for each other, because there’s so many people out there, and even if the ‘right’ person came at the wrong time, it mainly just comes down to willingness to love and to do what is right to improve what you have with someone else. you kinda have to have a strong foundation to begin with though, and share the similarities in living and personality that are going to make it work.

💌- diary or journal? i used to be more of a diary person, and then i was a journal person and now i’m neither tbh. kinda want to pick up journaling again though.

✨- which fictional character (book, show, or movie) do you relate to most? uhhh, this is prolly a longshot and i’m buttering myself up but, pyrrha nikos from rwby

💕- are you crushing on someone? NAH not really I’d think?

💋- kissing in the dark or kissing in the rain? prolly both. just like, it could be raining but preferably NOT in the rain, but while in the dark. that sounds pretty romantic and cheesy SHRUGS

🐝- describe your aesthetic in emojis: n.n uwu ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) :eyesemoji:

🍼- what is your favorite memory? IT’S TOO CHEESY

🌸- what is your favorite flower? tulips and roses i guess??

💖- have you ever been in love? uhhhh yes

🍰- strawberry or vanilla? probably strawberry tbh

🍯- describe your favorite smell: i like the smell of grass/trees after it’s rained. not like that gross muddy smell, that more fresh and nice smelling one idk i’m bad at explaining. 

🎂- if you had 3 wishes, what would they be? i don’t really want to list things that are attainable. but being settled down and married is something i think about a lot. wish i could meet my grandma on my mom’s side though. but i’m starting to think i’m running out of time… and that she’ll be passing soon. the rest of my grandparents aren’t even worth meeting, honestly. would love to travel around the us to meet all my online friends though!

🍪- cookie dough or cookies? cookies all the way!! it’s so much better baked. cookie dough lovers can take a hike (jk jk jk)

☕- coffee or tea? depends on the mood, but mostly coffee in the morning on work days tbh. 

🍃- would you rather live in a sea with mermaids or a forest with fairies? it was hard for me to decide, but probably in the forest with fairies. 

🍂- what’s your middle name? c-catherine

💫- what is your sun, moon, and rising sign? idfk how to tell what that is i’ma just say scorpio 

🌧️- favorite thing to do on rainy days? fall asleep. cuddle with my cats. watch stuff and be lazy

🍭- how tall are you? 5′3″. i’m hecka shorty, kinda wish i was like at least 5′7 or something.

💒- which show would you want to live in? stranger things so that i could bone billy askhfjljflkd NO i’m kidding… uhhh idk smallville maybe? i’m not too much of a show person so this one stumped me

🎄- what is your favorite holiday? sorrys i hate holidays so it’s gonna be a no, chief

🍦- what scented candle is your favorite? don’t really like candles tbh… anything that smells flowery though i guess.

🎶- favorite song right now? it’s not living by the 1975

💘- 3 ways to win your heart? Hardworking. Gentleman qualities. And apparently, being a nerd/dork… to the full extent because that makes me swoon.

🍩- current mood? CHILL

❄️- what is your favorite season? prolly fall

💍- your current relationship status? not available. i’m basically a 404 when you visit my page

📷- a photo of yourself

💅🏻- do you like being spoiled? pampered, not spoiled! just the right amount don’t overdo it cuz ya, i can do things to YA KNOW n.n

🕊️- 3 habits you have? tie up my hair all the time even though it causes headaches, sleeping in on weekends, wearing my glasses on my head

🦄- how do you perceive yourself? a multi-racial hispanic whomst is trying her best jk. the trying my best is true though, and that i’m telling it like it is, and i expect the same from others. i think i’m kinda cool i think i might actually be my friend if i didn’t seem so aloof all the time tbh

🦋- how do you think others perceive you? stuck up or awkward maybe??? at least in person. but some people do see me as a lawful good type? and i mean i am??? rissa says i’m chaotic good which isn’t true :[

🌈- things I find attractive in girls/guys: Having common ground with morals and values. But also similar sense of humor. Also nice hair??? I like hair. Dork types. You know.

🍓- one secret about yourself: i still have dreams about bumping into one of my former crushes. i think i just wanna be friends with him still but I”M SO BAD AT CONVERSATION. and honestly i think we mostly both are

🍒- how do you act when you have a crush? super obvious and extra about it. i get awkward and say their name a lot. also go out of my way to help. also eye contact probably wavers a bit to not seem to obvious? i also pick on them

💔- the reason behind your last breakup? never had a breakup

💬- what your last text message says? Hey how r u?

🎥- what show are you currently binging on? The Good Place

⛅- what is your morning routine? waking up 20 mins before work, going to the bathroom to pee and brush my teeth and throw my clothes on and then having coffee at work 

💗- who do you miss? lots of people tbh

🥀- last time you cried? wednesday in a walmart YEAH I KNOW. it was mostly suppressed and nothing full blown

🎁- when is your birthday? novembs 10

🔪- scariest/creepiest experience? most of my sleep paralysis induced dreams 

💤- date someone younger, older, or same age as you? i think the youngest i would date would be about 21 or 22, and oldest i might go as far as 30, because my first crush was about a 5 year gap w/ me.

🎀- any question you want: how about me asking my anons why they want to see my feet jus kidding i know that’s @silverseasofsummer

[bangtan-spells]

Yoongi Scenario: Wild Rose.

Request: Hi I'd like to request a fluffy scenario with yoongi in the 19th century where he's a noble and he threw a party but got bored quickly so he went outside to the garden and he sees y/n and they start talking

Genre: Fluff / 19th Century AU.

Yoongi knew what he had to do when he wanted to slip out of anything. In today’s case he was doing everything humanly possible to run away from the more than boring conversations that surrounded him. Sometimes parties although denominated as such weren’t what they seemed, for the nobility a party could be a long list of things, but more often than not it was only an occasion to flaunt wealth and successful trades or setting marriage arrangements. Yoongi’s head threatened him with ache at the thought of the latter, he had managed to slip out of those too, but he wouldn’t taunt his luck too much.

Soon he was slipping out of the party, no longer noticed by the group of men speaking about politics, he let his glass of champagne at a random table, one of the dozens that were disposed at the perimeter of the great hall. His father sure had a taste for opulence, the hall could host hundreds of guests at its full capacity and the paints on the walls, the intricate works of porcelain, the hangings, the ornate lamps and the most flamboyant floral and food arrangements didn’t have anything to envy those of the royal family. 

Although Yoongi’s taste not being as outrageous he couldn’t deny the beauty that held such parties; they were like spells that held everyone together for one night and after they ended they had the power of change lives. Yoongi had seen it, good men stripped from their lands for a conversation gone bad, unexpected marriages for the sake of two households, men rising in glory because they knew exactly what to say. He amused himself with it more often than not, but tonight he didn’t want to hear the word parliament one more time.

If his father had a taste for luxurious interiors, his mother had it for luscious outdoors. Their castle was well known for its outstanding gardens, as his mother liked to collect the most beautiful flowers that there were, even bringing some from across the world. Yoongi fancied the comfort of his chambers more than anything but he liked the peace nature brought, so he understood his mother and her love for it.

The hall had three ways to the exterior, one that went directly to the front of the castle although it wasn’t its main entrance, but it assured the guests a more complacent path to their carriages when the party ended. The second consisted in a balcony that had a gracious view on the extent of the lands and not far away lake, and the third lead directly to a font that lead to the gardens. Yoongi decided for the third, knowing that no one would be outside at this point of the party. Only that he was mistaken.

By the font he saw a girl who was fairly entertained by the water plants on it. Yoongi thought about going back, since encountering with someone else would go against his purposes, but this girl seemed familiar to Yoongi but right at the moment he couldn’t remember her name and that did strange things to his curiosity.

You were grazing the water softly, leaned a little bit more than necessary into the font. Almost like a child he dared to say, although your body begged to differ. The sleeves of your peach gown started at your shoulders leaving part of your chest exposed, the line of your body stretched at your waist gracefully without being constricted to not being able to breathe, the gown had gold and black applications making it more appealing to the eye. Yoongi saw your gloves laying indifferently also by the side of the font, as if losing them or wearing them meant nothing to you.

-Are you having fun staring my lord?- you said without lifting your gaze from the water.

Yoongi was astounded, looking behind his shoulder for a second as if you could be talking to someone else, he hadn’t even registered when he had started to stare, or when you had found him out.

-Aren’t you too far from the fun?- he answered with a question, trying to evade explaining himself.

You sat upright, now Yoongi seeing the elaborated necklace that hung over your chest, a piece of jewelry so finely crafted it could only belong to a high noble lady, but why he couldn’t remember your name?

-If you consider that over there fun, my lord, then consider this conversation finished- you sentenced as you moved your hands a little to dry them, proceeding to grab your gloves only to stash them in some sort of secret pocket hidden between the pleats of your skirt.

-Do all dresses have those?-

You looked down at your hidden pocket and gave him a half smile. -I had them made of course, I find it a little unfair how men can have pockets everywhere and we can’t-

Yoongi walked to you, but even if this was his home and he should feel comfortable he did it slowly and carefully, as if he did a brisk move you’d run away, and Yoongi certainly didn’t want this conversation to be finished.

-You seem to be very practical, lady…-

You scoffed but a little smile appeared on your lips. -Lady Y/N, and don’t ever call a woman practical, what sort of flattery is that, lord Yoongi? or I should say lord Min?-

Yoongi was impressed by you knowing his name, but then again you were at his castle, it would be foolish to go to someone’s party without knowing their names. -You can speak to me informally, just Yoongi- he said calmly, he figured you were the type to do so anyways. -And I didn’t know you were expecting flattery lady Y/N-

You mimicked the lopsided smile, like giving it to him that he had caught you. -You can speak informally to me as well, call me Y/N, if you wish-

Yoongi looked at you, the fine dress and jewelry, soft looking skin with a hint here and there of those paints women used on their faces, not too much, as your looks were polished but without it being overbearing, your hair was half up half down and it was shiny like it had been brushed a thousand times, and yet you had a few stray locks framing your face that moved around every time you did.

You were a fine noble lady, but yet, you moved and spoke with such easiness that were most common in girls that didn’t care about their status, like a peasant girl or like a queen.

-So what made a host run away from his party?- you asked as you circled the font, eyeing all the greens around and the several paths that would conduct to different parts of the garden.

Yoongi moved with you, seeing everything you saw, following your steps with curiosity. -Boredom I guess, what made a lady come alone outside?-

-Alone- you giggled. -Why men are always baffled when a lady is alone?- Yoongi didn’t have an answer, honestly he didn’t know why. You smiled at him letting you know you were once again playing. -I like gardens and flowers, and I’ve always heard how yours are magnificent-

Yoongi stopped walking when you did so, he had the words at the tip of his tongue, you were beautiful and without any doubt unique, he wanted to keep speaking with you, but he had come out to be by himself, but then he was pretty much always by himself. He saw you staring at anything but him, and Yoongi knew that he wanted your eyes on him one more time.

-How would you like me showing you? These are my gardens after all-

You put your hands behind your back, like a good girl who had been granted a prize. Yoongi just stared, amused, surprised.

-Are you this way with everyone?- he asked as he started to walk.

Yoongi had no idea of course, that this wasn’t your first time seeing him and that beyond anything else you were thrilled that he had at last noticed you. You had seen him in parties and one or twice around town. But until now you couldn’t have the chance to speak directly to him, now that you finally had one your intention was to make this boy to never forget you. That didn’t mean that you weren’t being authentic, you were showing yourself as you were, only that you were throwing a little bit more to the mix, flirtatious smiles and looks, just enough to pique his interest, those weren’t for everyone.

-I show myself as I am- you explained. -Of course certain things depend on the person I have before me, don’t you think?- he nodded. -How about you? Do you show yourself as you are?-

You wanted to know his answer, despite you having some sort in infatuation for him you were aware that you didn’t truly know him, Yoongi seemed to be aloof, quiet, a gentleman since you had never heard a scandal about him, and foremost you were almost certain that this noble boy was a dreamer, just like you.

-I guess I do, although I rarely show myself- he said honestly.

Yoongi led you through one of the paths you had near, the gardens were truly beautiful, just as the rumors had promised it to be. In mid spring you saw dozens of flowers in plain bloom, although you knew there could be hundreds or thousands of flowers around the entire garden. Every section of the garden had little bird fonts that were empty at night but you could imagine them being full with life in the morning, there were ornamental statues that celebrated art, some of them were animals, some of them were beautiful women or men with musical instruments in their hands. You couldn’t see all the details, but the moon shine gave you enough clarity to admire the beauty, it enhanced somehow the magnificence of the flowers. Roses, tulips, carnations there was a vast selection of them.

-This is espectacular- you said as you saw a beautiful peony from up close. -I think I had never seen so many flowers together-

Yoongi nodded. -Here we have the ones that can survive together at plain air, my mother keeps the more special specimens and the ones with special needs in the greenhouse-

-Your mother is the one behind this?-

He nodded again. -She loves her flowers, and she loves these gardens, and she gets deep involved in the creation of it, although she cannot do much herself-

You frowned a little at that, but Yoongi speed up the pace a little bit so you couldn’t see his face, something had happened with his mother, you wondered what but now you were a bit nervous to ask.

Keeping on with the walk you kept enjoying the gardens, you wished you could have gardens like this at your castle, but sadly the lands that your family had were invested in stables, archeries, and courtyards, not much space for vast gardens and beautiful sculptures.

-You even have wild roses here- the remark made him stop, you were leaning to see them better. Wild roses weren’t much common around, but here they looked to grown spontaneously. -They keep growing, and mother doesn’t want to cut them-

You understood, who would want to do that? You looked at his eyes who was staring back at yours. -Why do I think I have seen you before? Like I know you-

-Perhaps we know each other and you forgot about me, how rude my lord-

Yoongi chuckled amused by that, he seemed to be interested in you, attentive of what you had to say. But you wanted to hear about him too.

-So what are you interested about? Your father sure has some politics to do, your mother has these beautiful gardens, what about you?- it took him some time, Yoongi looked up at the sky, the night was free of clouds so you could admire the moon and stars fully and then he looked back at you.

-I don’t know… I’ve always, I’ve wanted to travel and see you know, everything out there but…- he shook his head. -My mother is ill, I have to marry in a couple of years, I have to take over this castle and these lands… I want to see the world but I barely leave these gardens-

You kept silent for a moment, you had slowed down your pace so much that you had almost stopped walking. He sounded sad, a dreamer just like you had suspected, but he was lost.

-Yoongi I..-

-I apologize, that was inappropriate- he said more seriously this time. -We should go back-

You knew you had, you had been absent enough time but you didn’t want this moment with him to end like this. So you stood there trying to think something clever to say, or a smart remark, or anything, but instead you smelled something.

-Oh my…- you opened your eyes wide looking around trying to spot the source of the smell. Yoongi looked at you confused and more so when you took his hand and started to run.

-Wait, Y/N, what is the matter?- he ran after you, until you halted in front of a few white flowers, round on their petals, but they were moving, and they were so fragrant  -What are these?-

You smiled brightly at him and at that moment Yoongi could only see you, the disheveled hairs due to the little run and the rosy cheeks of the same tone the wild roses you had left behind -Wait for it, you’ll see-

Yoongi teared his eyes from you and stared at the same direction as you, he saw in complete awe as the two white bulbs spread right before his eyes, letting out a sweet fragrance that now flooded everything. It was a beautiful scene, only at the end he noticed he was still holding your hand.

-These are moon flowers- you said quietly, like the flowers could hear you and be shied away of this spectacle. -They bloom only at night, it happens fast and they leave behind the sweetest of smells, aren’t they beautiful?-

-They are- he assured. Wanting to let go of your hand because he felt self conscious, but still not wanting to end the contact with your skin, it was improper of him and of you, but Yoongi didn’t care at the moment.

-You have such beautiful and wonderful things just before you and you don’t realize- you said a bit more quietly, the rosy tone one your cheeks intensifying as you pulled your hand away from his. 

You looked around, breathing in deeply and then gazing at him. Yoongi’s handsome face, his expression so focused on you that managed to make your heart race, you didn’t know what you had done tonight, something crazy you were sure but you had gotten what you wanted, and as you felt yourself trembling a little before speaking you figured you had realized much more than you had intended. -I hope after tonight, you don’t forget that-

Yoongi stared down at your hands now separated, and then at you. He didn’t know if he was imagining things or if this whole walk through the gardens was just a dream, all he could register was the sweet fragrance of strange flowers that only bloomed at night, and the eyes of a girl that shone like stars, if he could assure something was the memory of you in his mind. -I will not forget-

[captaingardening100-blog]

Im 35 and I love gardening. Deal with it

New Post has been published on https://gardenguideto.com/must-see/im-35-and-i-love-gardening-deal-with-it/

Im 35 and I love gardening. Deal with it

Why do so many people only see gardening as an activity for retired people, asks Tom Smart

I remember the conversation. The man in front of me was the husband of my wifes friend. I didnt know him that well. Wed just started talking when he took a sip of his drink and asked, Youre into gardening, huh?

I tried to smile, Yep. I like my garden.

So do you have a big garden? he enquired.

Its not a bad size for the house long and narrow but no, its not too big, I replied.

He thought for a moment and then said, I dont mind my garden. Its nice to sit out on a sunny day. Cutting the lawns a real pain though weve talked about getting that imitation grass stuff.

I didnt know what to say. I answered with a noncommittal Mmmmm.

Itd be great. Never have to mow the stuff again, the man said joyfully.

I fell silent.

There was an awkwardness building; we were struggling to find common ground. I could tell that it wasnt the right moment to divulge the fact that I love cutting my grass. Also, I probably wouldnt mention that I particularly love trimming the lawn in the height of summer, just after Ive finished deadheading my roses and staking a few flopping herbaceous perennials. Its a task that immediately makes the garden feel tidier, like putting the right frame around a beautiful painting. Instead I fell back on a topic which can rescue any conversation in Britain the weather. We both laughed about the ambivalent British summers, and the conversation moved on.

Gardening is many things: beautiful, meditative, healthy, exciting, rewarding and creative. However, I often feel as if gardening is not particularly popular among my peers. It seems to come down to one thing: age. Im 35 years old and Im passionate about gardening. Unfortunately, whenever I bring up gardening in a social situation at the pub or in a room of colleagues, for example there can be a few wry smiles. I sometimes begin to feel as if Ive admitted to some unusual obsession, like collecting my own toenail clippings or keeping a pet rock. At Christmas, a family member slapped me on the back and informed anyone listening that I was a sixty year old trapped in the body of a thirty-five year old.

So why is it that many people only see gardening as an activity for the older, retired person? Why do I feel as if so few people my own age enjoy gardening? Why do I always feel the need to explain myself or half-apologise in a self-deprecating way when someone finds out I enjoy horticulture?

Gardening can, and does, interest people of all ages. My children love the garden. They love sowing seeds and picking ripe raspberries with jammy red hands. I used to have an allotment, and there were many people my own age working their plots, enjoying the land and the dirt and the intermittent sunshine. Wed talk about potatoes and peas and the best way to beat the slugs. Ive been to gardening shows and talked with people of all ages and from completely different backgrounds; they all loved plants and watching them grow.

However, and this is a big however, gardening is still dominated by a particular age group. If you need evidence, visit your local flower show and see how many young faces you find. Try looking up recommendations for what to do when youre newly retired; gardening is near the top of the list. If you dont believe me, just look at who the garden centres market themselves towards. At Wyevale Garden Centres club, members who are over sixty get double points on a Tuesday. As for gardening magazines, my subscriptions are often full of advertisements for mobility scooters and life insurance. While I have no problem enjoying a pastime which is dominated by people almost twice my age, it would be nice to see more young people interested in horticulture.

Why is gardening dominated by the older generations? This is clearly a concern to the RHS – they have numerous groups and awards all aimed at young people: the Campaign for School Gardens, the Young Designer of the Year award, and the Young Landscape Contractor award, just to name a few. The RHS has even created a Horticulture Matters industry group to try to address the problem. They are obviously worried about the lack of new talent entering the industry.

While there are no simple solutions, it is clear that gardening is seen as an activity for the more mature adult. What is it about age and gardening which seem to complement each other? For me, one obvious link is simple: patience. Older people seem to be more able to slow down and notice the finer details in life. Nurturing a seed from a speck of dust into a mature plant takes time and persistence two qualities that can be in short supply in our modern lives. We live in a world where there are an excessive number of distractions and people often seem to expect instant gratification. These days, I understand how it can be difficult to convince many young people that a newly emerged tulip is more interesting than a smartphone.

As for me, I love gardening. I love it the way most men seem to love football. And while many guys my age try to convince their partners to let them travel for that away game to Madrid, Im always trying to talk my wife into turning yet more of our garden into raised beds for vegetables. Its a situation that can leave me feeling like an outsider, but its one Ive come to accept. And no, I couldnt tell you whos leading the Premier League right now, but I could talk you through how to take softwood cuttings from lavender I suppose, in the end, I wouldnt have it any other way.

Read more: http://www.theguardian.com/us