Dirty hands, Beautiful life: Hand Cut from Home

Home...I've been thinking of how much I will miss it as I travel abroad to China with our oldest daughter this summer. One thing that makes home feel like home to me is the classic garden treasures found this time of year. I L-O-ve to cut fresh flowers from the yard and garden and create my own designs. A few tips I've picked up over the years can be helpful.

First take a bucket with you of water as you pick (early in the morning is best). Sometimes the way they end up naturally in the bucket can be your best inspiration for design, color combos, and arrangement heights. I really like to go out and pick right before an expected rain that would take out the blossoms anyway -- might as well bring them inside to enjoy!

Seriously...this was how they looked in the bucket naturally -- just beautiful.

Add your long stems to establish your height and add structure inside the vase.
Remember that any foliage that will be inside the vase should be removed to help keep the water fresh and clean.

Next add some greenery as a base. Never underestimate the power of hosta leaves.

They last in the arrangement for weeks too!

Add flowers at varying heights including some blooms so that the bouquet lasts longer.

Iris foliage also gives nice flair and adds longevity to the freshness.

Even if you have some small blooms that don't fit or break off you can make some miniature bouquets for sink corners and night stands. This one is in a cute little creamer pitcher.