How to keep an orchid thriving is on deck today.
But first, if you’re new here, welcome, and if not, welcome back!
I’m pleased to report I’m feeling better. As I reported over the past few weeks, I’ve been down for the count with a room-clearing cough. The antibiotics have worked a treat. While not quite 100%, I’m no longer feeling like a newborn kitten or a sounding like a three-pack a day smoker when I hike the laundry upstairs.
How To Keep An Orchid Thriving
As I mentioned in my last post, my sister and my niece hosted the launch party for the book. I was thrilled to receive several lovely floral bouquets and orchids. The house looked like a florist’s for two full weeks. It was magical.
Yes, you’ve probably seen this photo several times, already. I know. However, I’m posting it again because of the orchids. I went home with them! Such a thoughtful gift from my sister. They are magical for two reasons. Check out the buds on the stems on April 26.
I took this photo today, May 26. Every single flower is out and blooming.
Honestly, I am just so thrilled. I haven’t had much luck with orchids in the past, probably because I tend to overwater them.
Now, look closer at the pot.
See the frogs lining the rim? Our antique and collectibles shop was called: Frankie Robinson Oriental Gallery. FROG. Pretty thoughtful of my sis, no?
The gift of orchids is also extra special for they feature in Never, Never, Hardly Ever. Extra bonus points to folks who’ve read the book and can tell me what roles they play!
Yet to acquire a copy or ten? No worries, I’ll attach a link below for you to check the book out.
In the meantime, here’s a little teaser.
The Chap Who Probably Wished He’d Never Met Us At The Orchid Farm
A little background: Francine and I were in dire need of a breather from buying inventory for the shop. The morning’s outing to an orchid farm on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, Thailand seemed like the perfect ticket. Someone else thought so, too. Ole from Norway. The chap possessed the worst sunburn I’ve ever seen. You could fry an egg on his face. When the coach pulled up, I hopped into the nearest seat and was delighted when Ole sat with Francine. The two bonded over her super-sized tube of SPF 50 sunscreen.
The Norwegian proved to be quite the orchid aficionado. Francine happily followed his lead under the acres of protective floral netting.
This special friendship spilled over when we returned to the hotel.
Let’s pick up the action as written in Never, Never, Hardly Ever:
“Shall we meet up at the pool for a swim before dinner?” Ole asked, eyes brimming with hope.
“Absolutely. We’ll join you in a jiffy,” my mother confirmed.
Ten minutes later, Francine knocked on the bathroom door.
“I’ve left my bathing suit behind in Bangkok. Did you bring two, Kel?”
No. However, she was a good four inches taller than me and some 50 pounds heavier. Even if I had brought another one, it probably wouldn’t fit.
“Ah well, I’ll make do with whatever I can find in the gift shop. You go on ahead, I’ll join you soon,” she called out cheerfully.
When I skulked onto the blisteringly hot deck clutching our two bath towels, an English newspaper and my novel, I was startled by the transformation of the normally morgue-like area. It was now all “Ipanema Beach at the height of summer.” Dozens of deeply tanned, svelte bodies packed the deck. Most of the men flaunted classic black Speedos while the women sported dental floss thongs with either skimpy bikini tops or nothing but their gold chain necklaces.
Instantly chaste in my black one-piece, I was desperate for refuge. Of course Ole had nabbed three loungers in the remotest corner of the deck. It was all I could do to creep over. The sunburned Norwegian was oblivious to both the fashionistas and my extreme discomfort. As I hissed my intention to plunge in the pool, he shouted, “You go for a swim, dear. I’ll watch for Mother.” Excellent. Everyone now clocked the pale postulant as the daughter of Mr. Beetroot.
When Francine finally graced the pool deck, I was stunned speechless. The “make do” gift shop swimming costume was extraordinary. Even for my mother.
For more on what my dear mother turned up in (and it was a beaut), check out the full deets here:
https://mybook.to/neverneverhardlyever
If you’ve any tips on how to keep an orchid thriving, please share. I would love to know!
Thank you for reading.
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6 Responses
Great story ! So happy that you were gifted that beautiful orchid, and amazing frog pot ! What a treasure !!
Good luck with the orchid, I have had mixed results with them !!
Looks like the frogs are keeping a keen eye on your orchid. I’m sure they will alert you to any trouble! ?
So glad you are recovering!! Take good care!!
Of course! Silly me not to realize the frogs are keeping a keen eye on them. They’re staring right at ’em. Thanks, Mo. And yes, I am feeling much better, thank you. Stay healthy, my friend.
While I enjoyed every story in your delightful book, Francine and the swimming costume might be my favorite!
Ha! Yes! Only Francine could have come up with such a costume and parade onto the pool deck like she was attending the Met Gala.