Our beautiful, historic home, once referred to as Weslia, was built in 1895 by Charles Beck and his wife, Helen Woodward. They both adored gardening and a number of the old Norway Spruces and Oaks still tower above. Original Rhododendrons still border the property, and a moss and lichen covered Weigela tree still offers us brilliant pink blooms every Spring, despite its age.

I try to imagine Helen working these gardens on a June day, in her long, Victorian dress, with its high collar, layers of skirting and most likely a tight fitting corset. And then, as I wipe the soil on my sweaty t-shirt and shorts, I quickly check my complaining.

Last Spring, when the world shut down, my beautiful, blue eyed, 88 year old mother, also a Helen, stayed with us for a bit. She couldn't stop pointing out all the glorious purple and pink blooms of the lilac tree, the azaleas, the hostas and so many others. She struggles with her memory these days, so each hour was as if she was seeing these gorgeous blossoms for the first time. It brought her such joy.

Taking a simple stroll around the yard, dabbling in her paints and puzzles on the front porch, indulging in her favorite dessert on the deck, sneaking in a little nap while watching the bunnies, were made even grander by the great abundance of flowers she enjoyed all around her.

And so this new Spring Collection, "Helen's Joy" was created with these two women and their deep love for flowers, gardens, and simple beauty in mind.

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