Well, the first rose of the year blossomed today - on the Saturday before Passion Sunday. It's of the "Stapleton" bush, and one of the original 50 bushes planted at the church some 15 or so years ago. Interestingly, it's a hardy bush with deep roots, given by someone who was part of the parish but a short time, and who left before "personally blossoming." The rose reminds us in a vivid way of the closeness not only of Spring, but also of Easter, and we thank God for being so "nature-ally" loving to all His creatures!
Wonder of wonders, which will be the second bush to bloom? Time will tell.
