4 Things - Favorite Flowers

There are few simple pleasures more lovely than fresh flowers.  They can instantly make my home feel more inviting, and yes even cleaner.  I often times pass by the beautiful flower section in my grocery store, thinking I don't really need those.  But I have to give in sometimes and splurge because it's good for the soul.  I've had a lot of favorite flowers over the years (I've always loved irises), but lately I have a few new favorites.

Clockwise from top left:

Billy Buttons - I love them because they're cute and quirky but also look very modern with their geometric spherical shape.  Not to mention, they dry really well, looking almost exactly as they do when their fresh.  I have a dried bouquet I've kept on my dining room table for months.

Tulips - A classic that never gets old.  Not only do these blooms have an amazing history (if you don't know about this read The Botany of Desire by Michael Pollan - it's fascinating). Also, my mom grew these in her garden every year when I was growing up and I used to watch for the first signs of them after winter started to thaw.  I love how simple they are like little colorful lollipops.

Peonies - These are so lush and fluffy; they remind me of a tutu.  They are the perfect girlie flower, with their varying shades of pink and were also a favorite in my mom's garden.  And look how elegant they are without any accompanying flowers in a simple mason jar.

Dahlias - I was first introduced to these when my very dear friend, my sister from another mother, got married.  She had bouquets with dahlias and I wore a bright red one in my hair as a bridesmaid.  They grow in great fields in Oregon where we lived, which as you can imagine is a pretty amazing sight.  Aren't they just stunning with their intricate layered pattern and strong structure?  Love, love, love these.