Monday, May 3, 2010

Lilies of the valley.

This past Saturday was Labor Day in France and tradition has it that May 1st is the day to offer un brin de muguet, or a little bunch of lilies of the valley to your special someone.

Several years ago, I remember my mother delicately offering some dating advice. I think she was trying to communicate how you know if it's right, if he's really "the one." She didn't get very far though before she got flustered. I think the conversation ended somewhat abruptly with, "I don't know what to tell you, everything has changed."

And I can understand why she would feel that way in this crazy mixed up world where couples seemingly do what they want, when they want. But our conversation wasn't a total loss. In fact, it got me wondering: even if the rules have changed, How. Do. You. Know?

Two years ago on May 1st, Monsieur J picked out a little bouquet of muguet for me at the market. I was just happy to have flowers and to learn about a new tradition. That night he whispered to me, "you know, I've never bought lilies of the valley for anyone else before -I used to get them for my mom when I was little, but that's different. I thought you'd like them."

3 comments:

  1. Can't remember how I found your blog but am glad I did and now have a link to you on mine. If you look at my May 1st post, you can see we were on the same page:://booksinnorthport.blogspot.com/2010/05/flowers-and-friendship-to-fore.html

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  2. I literally cried after this post! What a sweet story about Monsieur J! You are such a wonderful couple. I can't wait to come to France and visit with you both again!
    -Steph

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  3. PJ, I'm glad you stumbled across my blog and I hope you'll continue to enjoy it. I loved your May 1st post, how timely!

    Steph, the futon is yours on your next trip to France. I would love to show you around Toulouse!

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