Read by Matilda Longbottom

In the quaint hamlet of Chelsea, Vermont, nestled amidst towering trees and fragrant blooms, a delightful tale unfolds – a tale of love, loss, and an irresistible penchant for peonies.

When my mother passed away, her spirit found solace amongst the petals of her beloved peonies. Now, twenty-eight vibrant plants grace my garden, each one a testament to her memory. Yet, the shadows cast by towering trees threatened to stifle their bloom. Undeterred, I clung to hope, dreaming of sun-drenched days and flourishing flowers.

Peonies, with their opulent blooms and regal names, hold sway over my heart. From the delicate Abalone Pearl to the fragrant Sarah Bernhardt, each variety enchants with its beauty. And while I fuss and fret over their care, I must confess to a mischievous habit – I am a peony thief.

Sylvia, a neighbor with a verdant garden, became the unwitting source of my botanical pilfering. After her passing, I couldn’t bear to see her cherished peonies succumb to encroaching chervil. So, under cover of darkness, I liberated her blooms, transplanting them to my own garden where they now thrive in splendor.

With each stolen peony, I pay homage to Sylvia’s legacy and my mother’s memory. Their blooms adorn my home, infusing every room with their intoxicating fragrance. And as I tend to my pilfered petals, I am reminded that even amidst loss, beauty endures. ❖

About the Author: Dian Parker is an avid gardener and storyteller based in Chelsea, Vermont. Her love for peonies knows no bounds, and she can often be found tending to her garden or wandering the moonlit streets in search of floral treasures. When she’s not indulging her green thumb, Dian enjoys weaving tales of whimsy and wonder, drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature that surrounds her. “Pilfered Petals” is her first foray into the world of horticultural hijinks, blending humor, heart, and a touch of larceny in equal measure.