© 2013 Aaron Atkinson

Stopping to Smell

A few years ago, Laura and I planted 40 red and yellow tulip bulbs in the beds in our front yard. The lack of a roasting hot day this spring has created a near perfect tulip growing season and they’ve responded by maintaining their peak form for the past couple of weeks. But the forecast is calling for 80 degrees in the near future, so I suspect our tulips may have passed their prime and will slowly start to fade in the coming days.

With that in mind, it’s fitting that while we were in our front yard this evening a red truck came to a slow stop in front of our house. I’ve never seen him before, but I suspect he lives in an adjacent neighborhood.

Guy in the Red Truck:  I just want to let you guys know that I love your tulips. I’ve really enjoyed admiring them lately as I’ve driven back and forth to work. Thanks for planting them.

Laura and I smile and simultaneously respond.

Me and Laura: Thank you!

He then gave us a friendly wave and drove away, admiring our tulips.

2 Comments

  1. Skyla Mann
    Posted May 26, 2013 at 1:50 pm | #

    I’ve been known to write “thank you” notes to folks for making their yards beautiful places to enjoy while I walk. It’s so fun to surprise people with gratitude! I love that you two are good stewards over the little piece of paradise you’ve been granted. Good Work, L & A!

  2. Aaron Atkinson
    Posted June 5, 2013 at 2:42 am | #

    Thanks Skyla. You’d make a great neighbor. I bet our dogs would never bark at you as you sauntered by on the sidewalk.

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