I have a deep love for the peony. 13 years ago when my husband and I were planning our wedding we chose May 28th as our big day so I could carry a bouquet of beautiful Sarah Bernhardt peonies down the aisle (pictured here). I know many people share my admiration for this amazing flower.

In the feung-shui practice the peony flower is a traditional symbol of conjugal bliss and is used to enhance love aspirations. In ancient European times the peony was held in high esteem as a medicinal plant. In Greek mythology Paian, the physician of the Greek gods, gave the plant its name; with peony roots he healed Hades, god of the underworld, who had been wounded by Heracles.

This is the height of the peony season. So stop by a florist or a garden near you and marvel at the beauty of the celebrated peony.

I came across this website the other day: www.trashthedress.com

"Go ahead, you know you want to. Trash it. Get it dirty. Get it wet. Roll around in the mud. Drench it in the ocean. Totally trash it.
Why? Why not? You have made a commitment to your husband. He is your one and only true love, right? Then you will never need the dress again. And no, your daughter will not want wear it in 20-30 years. So you have two choices:
1) Suffocate it in plastic and throw it in a closet
2) Show your husband how committed you are by trashing the dress, and get some great fun pictures while you do it!"

What a great way to get some really memorable pictures and have a total blast in the process. Check out the link for some fun and inspiring pictures. I can think of several photographers that would LOVE the chance to take pictures of an adventurous bride and groom. Come on- Trash that Dress!