Starts with K

If ever there were a sign from the heavens about a column topic, it was last week.

Flowers, you say? I had them in spades – or rather, others did.

One of my favorite stories each year is the flower show luncheon and raffle, hosted by the Blooming Prairie American Legion Auxiliary.

I’m not exactly sure why I’m so fond of it, maybe because it is charming in its simplicity.

Amateur gardeners pluck their finest bloom (or greenery), stick it in a vase (or arrange it), and drive it to the BP Servicemen’s Club.

There is no registration required, just bring your blossom and enter it in the appropriate category. Last year, there were no entries in the gladiolus, rose or snapdragon categories; organizer Karen Beede hypothesized it was because of all the rain.

There are ribbons and cash awards for first-through-third place – and who doesn’t need an extra $5, $3, or $2, respectively? – but the real prize is most definitely having others see their work.

This year, Louise Peterson, who keeps the Times office in Blooming Prairie well-stocked with beautiful flowers all summer, took home the two big ones: Grand Champion and People’s Choice, with her arrangement of … lilies?

I think they were lilies, but I’m a lot like my mom, who used to say, “I know two kinds of flowers. One’s a rose, and the other one isn’t.”

Lonna Lysne, of Owatonna, was awarded the Reserve Champion ribbon for her … well, you know. It was a potted plant with some lovely reddish-orange flowers and a variety of greenery.

More than 100 people show up every year, including a contingent from Prairie Manor/Heather Haus. The money collected through basket raffles and the lunch is used to fund veterans’ programs for past and present military members, including local folks.

Three days later, I wandered around strangers’ yards – though by the time I left, we were no longer strangers – and admired their commitment to beauty.

It was the Owatonna Arts Center’s annual Secret Garden tour, something else I’ve grown (ha!) to love, and typically ask for the assignment each summer.

It’s called a secret tour for a couple of reasons: First, most of the beautiful gardens and displays are behind the homes, hidden from the casual passer-by; and second, because the gardens on the tour are not announced until the day of the event.

I would like to know a third secret: What is the key to the incredible growing success the homeowners have?

It’s not just the plants, though. From wine bottles to repurposed windows to fountains to carousel horses, it was all *chef’s kiss.*

It is art, no different than a beautifully woven rug or an oil painting, and none of it just happens. I caught myself thinking several times, “ohh, I’d love to do that!” before immediately realizing that if I brought wine bottles and repurposed windows into my yard it would resemble a recycling site more than a lush garden.

I know my limitations. I’m grateful if my haul of annuals from the Mennonite community in Iowa lasts through July.

There were no ribbons or $5 bills at the OAC Secret Garden Tour – just a genuine joy at sharing what they love to do.

About 100 people typically show up for this event each year, too; ticket proceeds go to the arts center.

As my mom also used to say, “every flower blooms in its own time.” I’m happy to wait.