Indian Lilac

Simply divine, these white Neem Tree inflorescences. I think they are so fitting for a wedding. So pure and virginal, I must say. And because of their having stalks, they make for a very practical bouquet. Gather some knowledge about this wonderful tree deemed as a "one tree pharmacy." You'll be amazed to know its therapeutic and edible qualities, flowers included. 

Pleasing to the eye. Good for the body. 

The Charm of Balinsasayaw

Blue Plumbago

Cosmos

Cape Honeysuckle

We recently pinned to 'favorite dining places' this charming place called Balinsasayaw located somewhere south of Manila. You can choose from one of their numerous huts, each covered with netting to ward off insects, its own bell to summon wait staff, fan and of course, table and benches where I am free to prop up my tired feet. Aside from their food which we love (every single dish every time we visit is always satisfying), we are absolutely delighted by the flowers that surround each hut and walkway. Those flowers serve as boundaries for each group of diners, giving one a sense of privacy.

In daylight the flowers dazzle. Under night lights, they enchant.

Cosmos Within Reach

Breathing --- shallow. Heartbeat --- fast. So I'm upset. There are simply things beyond my control.  Let me take a walk outside and find a remedy to my disconcerting feelings. Good thing, I do not need any medical prescription or shell out a big amount to get to a place where I can find relaxation. An awareness of gifts from Mother Nature in our small community is all it takes for me to feel at ease. 

Marvel at this variety of Cosmos flowers -- bold purple petals springing from a dazzling yellow center. Different from the usual yellow orange variety. Happy to note that the Cosmos is said to be the flower of peace and tranquility. What a nice little gesture from the Creator of this wide universe!

Ladies of the Night

Contrary to what the title may imply these ladies are one-inch wild orchids our neighbor along our street had on her wall. Was on my way to the Sports Center for my usual fitness schedule when I slowed down to appreciate these beauties. I don't think the plant which was attached to coconut husks was in tiptop shape as its leaves were sparse and its flowers were just as scanty. But just the same, I found them so good to look at. 

Carnation Surprise

A less familiar variety of carnations, this kind looks closer to pencil shavings, See how the purple core has unfolded along with the white casing. One could almost mistake them for some school art project made from recycled material.

Marigold Lush

Luxuriant colorful heads of soft velvety marigolds are just the sight for sore eyes. These shots were taken from one of our work venues, a private vacation resort owned by one of our participants. I can't say that the resort was well-designed but I do admire the owner's penchant for flowering plants -- which more than makes up for the man-made structures. Well, nature always trumps anything man-made, I should say.

Vintage Appeal

The cluster of simple lilac-colored flowers remind me of those nights when people are lined up on the street to witness the parade of ladies all dressed in traditional finery, with flowers in their hair and flowers adorning their carriages. In the sweltering heat of the flickering incandescent bulbs the beauties are able to hold their own, mustering abundant smiles for as long as the parade goes. It is their night. After all, they were chosen from among the many for that year's Flores de Mayo, a much awaited Filipino festival.