One of my annual treats to myself is to attend the regional orchid show that is held at the Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks in Fayetteville, Arkansas. It is always held the first weekend of March.
I look forward to it every year because, not only do I get to view amazing plants, for me it is the symbolic end of winter. Spring is my favorite time of year and, with the orchids showing off their spectacular blossoms, I know warmer weather is on the way.
Orchids are a diverse group of plants and just when you think you must have seen everything they have to offer, you’ll be surprised by a new one!
The plants, as well as the blooms, come in various sizes. Some blossoms are large enough to fill your hand and overflow a bit. Others are so tiny that they are easily missed if you don’t look closely. And the colors! 
Attending the show is a ritual that has come to include a group of my friends as well. Though we are all ‘plant people’, few of us have actually ever grown orchids. I must confess that I still find keeping them alive and happy to be a daunting task shrouded in mystery.
One of my friends (who is an orchid grower and always brings home blue ribbons), assures me that this diverse group of plants is actually quite easy to grow. Of course, they are easy for him! He has raised, studied, researched, and practiced for years and we all who know him get to reap the benefits of his knowledge. 
As for me, I am not yet ready to take the plunge into the vast pool of orchid raising. Someday, I tell myself with hesitation and not just a little bit of envy. Someday… But for now, I’ll simply enjoy the fruits of other people’s talents. I hope you like them as well.
If you grow plants, what is your specialty? I’d love to know.
I love going. We always have fun and learn something new!