R is for . . . Rhodies

Here on the Oregon coast, color is bursting out all over as the rhododendrons spring into bloom. They’re coming out in all shades of red, pink, purple, white and yellow. It’s a spectacular display that only lasts for a few weeks, but Lord it’s beautiful. The rest of the year, the plants offer a sturdy green presence able to endure snow, ice, rain and wind. Back in San Jose, we had roses. I miss my roses, but they can’t stand up to the elements like rhodies can. Rhodies are tough.

The rhododendrons in my front yard were blooming when Fred passed away. The third anniversary is this Wednesday. I will always think of him when I see rhodies or when I hear robins singing just before dawn.

A few miles south of here in Florence, Oregon, the town celebrates rhodies in a big way with its annual rhododendron festival. It takes place May 16-18 this year, with the crowning of Queen Rhododendra, a parade, car show, craft fair, rhodie run, and lots of flower displays. For information, go to the website at www.florencechamber.com/chamber/105th-rhododendron-festival. 

Author: Sue Fagalde Lick

writer/musician California native, Oregon resident Author of Freelancing for Newspapers, Shoes Full of Sand, Azorean Dreams, Stories Grandma Never Told, Childless by Marriage, and Up Beaver Creek. Most recently, I have published two poetry chapbooks, Gravel Road Ahead and The Widow at the Piano: Confessions of a Distracted Catholic. I have published hundreds of articles, plus essays, fiction and poetry. I'm also pretty good at singing and playing guitar and piano. View all posts by Sue Fagalde Lick