gardening glory

we all have that list of college jobs.. some more memorable than others, and some more enjoyable than others. one of my most likeable jobs was spa attendant at mar-a-lago. great pay, delicious employee dining options, beautiful surroundings and of course... complimentary spa treatments!! now that was some serious papmering!:) it was the free facials and massages that helped me not mind the never-ending supply of mega-plush robes that needed to be folded, the solid brass sinks that had to be wiped drip free after every use, the hair brushes that were to be “de-haired” after every use and the toilet paper refolded into a point or fan...you guessed it- after every use. but, it was the exposure to the magnificant gardens that drew me in and grabbed my attention every time my foot hit the lush grounds. always taking note of what was in bloom and memorizing the names of tropical plants id never laid eyes on before. Im sure I annoyed the gardener always tagging along while he planted or manicured something exotic, but I couldnt help it. one of my most favourite plants i saw was the “datura”..a lushy green plant with huge leaves that illuminated when touched by sunlight. also called “angels trumpet” for the shape of its bloom-a gorgeous upside down trumptey-looking form. i would smile gleefully every time I saw them. always thinking to myself: one day when I grow up and have a yard of my own, I want this datura growing there. so, years down the road, my step mom, who has the greenest thumb you could ever imagine, gave me a cutting of her datura. It has been one of my favourite presents yet. it started out a foot or so high and has grown into this amazingly beautiful huge plant that towers over all our heads. I still smile with glee every time I look out my kitchen window and see the dozen or so blooms dripping off its crooked branches. thanks for the cool find mar-a-lago, and thanks for this awesome treasure, elaine!!:)