Surprise in The Bottom

I’ve mentioned The Bottom before—a quiet little spot behind our home, on my in-laws’ property. Years ago, we planted many trees there, and over time, my father-in-law added a small bridge over the stream, a picnic table, and even a hammock. It became a favorite place for our children to explore, imagine, and have adventures.

Around 1980, my grandfather, Albert Behnke, had some extra small azaleas at his arboretum in Burtonsville. He was giving them away, so we took a few and planted them near the stream bank. Honestly, I had almost forgotten about them.

As the years passed and our children grew up, the Bottom became quieter. My father-in-law did his best to keep it up, but eventually, nature began to take over. The bridge washed out a few times, trees fell, and the area got a little wild.

Lately though, my brother-in-law has started cleaning it up again—clearing brush and opening up the path. That led me down there last week, to see how it was coming along. And to my surprise, those long-forgotten azaleas were in full bloom, tucked along the stream bank, looking like they’d never missed a beat. I guess they found just the right spot. 💚