Amazing Orchids

Orchids are a big deal here in Switzerland. They are everywhere!

The colors are SO vibrant. Photos don't do justice.

Here is the story of my favorite anniversary present:

While walking during lunchtime at work sometime, Curt discovered an amazing flower/plant shop (all unknown to me). Curt knows me--he knows I love plants. I am not sure where this passion came from, but I was always planting little things in pots and egg cartons as a kid. I remember my mom letting me plant petunias and pansies in the front yard flowerbeds. I loved it!

Anyhow a few weeks later, Curt walked me to the store after lunch on our anniversary as a surprise and told me I could pick one of the orchid plants there. Oh - I was elated!!! The perfect surprise from the perfect husband. Now there were 2 things that made me hesitate:

1. We were about to go on vacation for a few weeks and I thought it would be sad to miss a large part of the blooming time of the orchid (they bloom with a schedule).

2. As it was a specialty boutique, the lady charged a large amount of money (I can't remember the exact amount, but I believe they were about $200 ? ). Mind you, they were beautiful and very, very well grown, crafted and presented...but $200 for a plant that is really easy to kill?? That's a little risky.

Solutions: 1. Buy plant after trip (check) 2. See if there is a way to get the exact thing for a little less money (check):  While I was at a home shop trying to get a shower curtain rod, I saw a vase just like the ones at the specialty boutique. Then I went next door to the hardware store to buy light equipment. Right there in the gardening section I saw that their 2 stem orchids on sell for $15 instead of $40. How could I resist? I bought both that day and was so excited to tell Curt. I got big smiles carrying them home on the bus. In total: The vase was $29, so for under $45 I have my orchid plant that would have been $200. I am so happy!!!!!! So happy I dedicated a blog posting to my little plant.

Orchids survive with exposed roots. With time, I'll remove more "dirt"

Orchids require very special care and watering--even more joy!

This was a perfect gift. I wouldn't have had the excuse to buy myself one.

New bud starting to open at top!

I look at it many times a day...I love it. Maybe too much (have you noticed?). I savor the small buds that slowly open until the flowers are in full bloom. Nature is a miracle. I am so happy to have our little orchid in our home. It doesn't have a name yet (and I am not sure if it is a he or she orchid). Any ideas?

Curt probably thinks I am crazy. A few times per week I exclaim, "Look!! Another one is starting to open! Look at it! Look at it!!" I'm such a nerd.