Dear Hearts and Gentle People

Back in the early '50s, there was a song by Sammy Kain called "Dear Hearts and Gentle People," which sang about the uncommon goodness that we find in our own back yards. That song came to mind as I thought about the wonderful opportunity that NCW Dahlia Society members had yesterday, to work with Dick and Danielle Parshall, and Betty and David Burton. These gifted and patient folks came over from the West side of the Cascades to spend the day with us, all novice growers, and to teach us the fundamentals of judging and selecting flowers for competition. They had a very well organized presentation, taking turns to present all aspects of dahlia form, color, size and showing considerations. All of these presenters are award winning hybridizers - the Burtons with a "Stillwater" prefix, and the Parshalls with "Clearview." We had 18 people in attendance, with almost all members of our club present. It was fun to see that Ellie and Fiona Koenen, junior growers and first year members of the club, were so interested and curious about the different aspects of what we look for in good show dahlias. They were both engaged and lasted through the extremely warm afternoon sessions without so much as a whimper - real troopers, these two!

The kindness and generosity of dahlia growers such as the Burtons and Parshalls cannot be overstated. They give of their time and their treasure to help us develop the tools to become the best we can be as dahlia growers, exhibitors, clerks, and yes, even judges. I know that everyone in attendance learned a great deal, but more than that, we were able to feel like we are a part of a bigger picture, working towards common and admirable goals together, with some of the best growers in the world. We are truly fortunate to be a part of something that is so good in so many ways - We may have been brought together by a common interest in growing and showing this sensational flower, but the real benefit - the very best thing - is the giant surge of faith in our fellow man that results from gracious shows of encouragement as we always find when we spend time with dahlia people like the Burtons and Parshalls.

Well, I'm off to Glacier National Park in little more than an hour. I am so excited to reconnect with something that feels like a piece of myself. Glacier Park (and the Great Northern RR) was such a part of my dad's life when I was growing up and every time I go there, I feel like his spirit is in every corner. This will be my 8th trip in 7 years, and I can't imagine ever NOT wanting to return, year after year. By the end of today, I will be breathing in the crisp clean air of the northern Rockies.....Aaahhh!