Lily of the Valley

May 24, 2013 Photo of the day:

"Lily of the Valley"

When we planted our garden years ago, I was warned about lilies of the valley. People cautioned me that the tiny flowers would take over, spreading everywhere. Yet despite the warnings, I planted one small sprout about 5 years ago. I have always remembered those lovely, fragrant lilies of the valley growing along the foundation of my Grandma Larson's house in Sturgeon Bay. 

Also known as Our Lady's tears or Mary's tears, Christian legends holds that the tiny blossoms sprang from the Blessed Mother's tears at the crucifixion of Jesus. Lilies of the valley are often a symbol of humility in religious paintings. They are also considered a sign of resurrection, renaissance, and the ability to envision a better world.

Five years have passed since I planted my lily of the valley. I had almost forgotten about it since it never bloomed...until this week! In keeping with a trend this spring (one crocus, one tulip), I have a single sprig of tiny blossoms. Granny's lilies of the valley were pure white while mine seem to be tinted the palest pink. Lovely!