Waiting is SO hard!

A slow and reluctant learner, I would now consider myself a relatively patient person. This hasn't come easy! Over many years and many "lessons in patience" sent by the universe, I've had no choice but to learn this trait. 

Gardening is definitely a hobby that includes many of those lessons in patience. Every time I see a new bud forming on one of my plants I get all excited and can hardly wait for it to open.

orchid cactus

But as the days go by, it seems like it's taking that tiny bud FOREVER to open up. Of course it doesn't help that I keep check the buds a couple of times a day! The amaryllis' seem to be the worst when it comes to taking their sweet time to open their gorgeous trumpet flowers.

Apple blossom amaryllis

Oh, the painstaking patience it requires to be a gardener can sometimes be frustrating!

Black-eyed Susan

But, when the day comes that I check the garden and . . .

discover this . . . I am truly rewarded for my reluctant patience!

Sombreuil - old garden rose