For the first time in years, our Parish Church is hosting a Flower Festival this weekend. They asked for help from the Mens' Shed, in making some shelves to fit over some of the pews, to enable more floral arrangements to be displayed. These have been duly created and covered with green paper.Bob had an idea about using vintage carpentry equipment and flowers to make a display. However I am away at a Conference, and wasn't sure I could find time to prepare an arrangement. So I did some research, and here is what I came up with. I was able to put it in place before I left!
Because the Swanton Morley Shed Project is a lively, growing group this arrangement is created with living plants rather than cut flowers. The ones chosen represent the qualities found among ‘Shedders’ using the traditional ‘Language of Flowers’
The alstroemeria symbolizes long-lasting friendship, and
mutual support - its leaves twist 180 degrees as they grow which is seen as a
symbol of staying connected through life's ups and downs. The six petals of the
flower represent the traits required for a strong bond: understanding, humour,
patience, empathy, commitment, and respect.
The echinacea [yellow coneflower] stands for optimism and
good mental health
Ivy represents loyalty and companionship
Yellow chrysanthemums celebrate happiness and friendship.
Huge thank you to all of you for your kind words yesterday. I'm here in Milton Keynes at a Conference for spouses of Baptist Revs. Among many friends old and new. The theme of the weekend is "Worship is Rest" and we are expected to take time out to rest. Just what I need!
Putting floral arrangements can be relaxing, I agree, but, I'm not sure if I'd consider attending a conference to be resting. But, that's just me. :) Hope you are enjoying yourself.
ReplyDeleteHaving a lovely time
DeleteThe Shed arrangement is so clever and so right!
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely day today
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DeleteThat is a lovely display and the meaning of the plants truly reflects the Shed Movement, so thoughtful and just the sort of thing you do so brilliantly. I am sure you will have a wonderful time at your conference with like.minded women, and that you can rest and restore your physical health as well as your spiritual health. Take care Sue H
ReplyDeleteReally appreciating time with friends and time to rest
DeleteThe display looks amazing and so appropriate to use living and growing plants instead of cur flowers. Enjoy your Conference and take time to rest , reflect and pray. (and chat and eat )Catriona
ReplyDeleteF
DeleteThe food is fabulous
Enjoy Milton Keynes! It's my old "stamping ground" & we were there recently to see a concert. We also caught up with old friends which was lovely. Whatever people say, I found MK a great place to live, with a vibrant, ecumenical church community.
ReplyDeleteMk has some good bits and doesn't deserve its reputation for nothing but concrete cows!!
DeleteThe Shed is an absolutely great idea and so good for retired men to get together in a positive way.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you are at the conference and enjoying it , also getting some rest- I hope!
Thank you for the description of the meaning of the plants too, JanF
The Shed is proving really worthwhile
DeleteHow lovely this is x
ReplyDeleteAlison in Devon x
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DeleteI love that refurbished sign, the curved shape and all. The Flower Festival looks beautiful and the display for the Men's Shed is a wonderful "ad" for the group. I hope it encourages more men to join, or if they are from another place, to start their own!
ReplyDeleteIt has certainly raised the Shed profile in the village!
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