Fence Roses

Although June is the month that claims the rose as its symbolic flower, May is when they bloom here in Virginia. We are in the midst of the most glorious show in years, thanks to our rainy spring. Roses have vigorously conquered every trellis. They have draped themselves across fences in solid thorny blankets laden down with bright clusters. I am especially fond of the humbler roses, those with a closer resemblance to their wild ancestors. Most of them flower only once. On a gray morning, I trotted down the street to visit a favorite "fence rose." I love the way the petals shade from white to pink, setting off he golden centers. My feet got soggy as I stood in the tall grass and admired the way the raindrops had settled on each petal and leaf. Yes, May is definitely my month of roses.