Saturday, July 11, 2015

TAL Challenge: Flowers


Act One: The Student

The above arrangement was a total surprise from the family of an advisee, a quirky kid whom I thoroughly enjoyed.  I found it on my back steps a week after school got out.

"Thanks for being so great to Sarah," the card read.

I was overcome with happiness.

Act Two: The Bride

The afternoon of my wedding, I walked into the ready room at the church to find a box of beautiful flowers sitting open on an orange sofa, the purples and pinks bursting against the burnt orange.  My friend Jordan was in charge of finding the right people for their corsages and boutonnieres.  I gave bouquets to my four bridesmaids myself.

My sister held mine for me while I did my vows, and then she gave it back.

Act Three: The Mentor

At my second job, I taught with an iconic teacher who has influenced thousands of lit lovers, including several who cite her as a prime reason they themselves became English teachers.

This woman, who retired this spring, was a total pro.

One of her traditional practices?  Fresh flowers in a vase on her desk every Monday morning.  I always mean to do this, but most of the time, I forget.  I forget or I don't want to spend the money.  But, I'm thinking it might be worth it.


2 comments:

mm said...

I love the ideas of fresh flowers on your desk. I have plants in the rooms, but fresh flowers show more cheer. Heck, I bet kids would start bring you flowers for your vase!

LH said...

Love all 3 acts.

I need flowers now.