MayFlowerSeries...Fresh Flower Arrangements

 Fresh Flower Arrangements have a long history throughout the world dating back to ancient Egypt.  As an art form flower arranging can be traced back to ancient China where it was based on the principle that life is sacred.  Knowing that certainly makes the meaning of giving and receiving flowers for one's birthday very special and meaningful...life is sacred.

 A favorite of mine is the Iris, and according to ancient Egypt flower history Irises were one of the sacred flowers found in depictions throughout ancient ruins.  Iris mythology dates back to Ancient Greece when the goddess Iris, who personified the rainbow (Greek word for iris), acted as the link between heaven and earth.  It is said that purple irises were planted over the graves of women to summon the goddess Iris to guide them in their journey to heaven. (Teleflora)

 

While I am at it, I may as well continue the history and significance of the flowers photographed at my Mom's 85th birthday celebration in February 2012.  Let's start with the Pink Carnation, a species of Dianthus Caryophyllus.  Dianthus comes from Greek and translates to 'heavenly flower or 'flower of love.' 

 

 In Christian legend, the first carnations bloomed on Earth when Jesus carried the Cross.  Witnessing Jesus' plight, Mother Mary started to shed tears and pink carnations sprang up where her tears fell.  Thus, the pink carnation became the symbol of a mother's undying love. (Floweraura)

 

I wish I knew then what I know now about the flowers in Mom's birthday arrangements.  She would have enjoyed knowing their history and how their symbolism made them the perfect flowers to celebrate her birthday. 

Here's one more for the symbolism/significance book....Carnations are my January Birth Month Flower and Purple Irises have been in our flower beds since I was a little girl.  The bulbs have been transplanted year after year, move after move from my Grandmother Minnie's Iowa flower beds and the house pictured above where I was born.