World of Irises: A New Year - A New Opportunity

Sunday, January 1, 2012

A New Year - A New Opportunity

And the world turned once again, so we’re starting a new year. Hope you’ve had a chance to surround yourself with your loved ones during the holiday season, and that your list of New Year resolutions is one that includes receiving lots of love in your life.

'Ruby Slippers'

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for being part of our Word of Irises, and for your continuous support. March of 2011 saw the creation of this blog and an unexpected success. Just this week, this blog’s page views surpassed 20,000, which is a very significant sign about the interest on irises and one that we would like to react to in a manner that is meaningful to you, our audience. So, keep in touch, look around, make comments, and give us your input so we can bring better articles, better pictures and more of what you’d like to see.

'Ships Are Sailing'

A most grateful acknowledgement to the actual bloggers without whose help the AIS Blog could no be possible: Mike Unser, Renee Fraser, Jim Hedgecock, Jim Murrain, Griff Crump, Debbie Strauss, Bob Hollingworth, Bryce Williamson and Betty Wilkerson. I also thank those that helped us even if temporarily.

And, a surprise report on the current top ten countries that have become our audience, in order of number of viewers/readership:

United States
Canada
Romania
Russia
France
United Kingdom
Argentina
Italy
Spain
Germany

What is the meaning of this? Perhaps you can help us explain it. What does it tell us? We will be analyzing and sharing with you soon.

Personally, last year was a successful one, with all the activities that have become part of my life, locally and nationally, in my personal world and to the technology and social media world. If I were to summarize it, I could do it by expressing my appreciation for one very important event: the Victoria Convention. It was one I will never forget and one that I still need to mention here because it is so present in my heart and mind. From the detailed work by its organizers, volunteers and staff to the daily joy of seeing each garden on the tours, to simply staying at the Empress Hotel - what a great convention. It was put together so well that my experience was one of fulfillment, it made my year. (I’m sharing a few more pictures from that experience here.)

'Hot Fudge'
'Prince of Burgundy'
'Ask Alma'

In the meantime, it is 2012 and the countdown to spring has begun, which means, down in the dirt, into the roots, that energy that says “it’s time,” is brewing, bubbling, and so are the plans for a successful bloom in all of our gardens, and we, out here, can’t wait to see it all manifest itself in front of our eyes, once gain, in all it’s glory.

Happy gardening.

'Easy'

Photo detail:
All photos taken at Salt Spring Island's Baker's Garden during the Victoria Convention. For descriptions please click on names below.