This time of year, these berries jump out at my gaze with their extravagant colours just pleading for attention. Every time I look out the window, I am reminded of my Mom and how much she loved this native plant, drawing and painting its berries and leaves in many different poses and angles.
It seems though, to be truly appreciated, the best portrayal is seeing as it takes the spotlight in the fading garden and turns the somber cloak of fall into a Mardi Gras celebration.
White Baneberry – Actea pachypoda
galanthusjean 
I met Jean around 1960 on her return to Canada with Anne from Venezuela. Our friendship was special from the beginning and over 54 years we managed to keep in touch, not constantly, but meaningfully. In recent years we were able to enjoy more outings together, with Jean always remarking about our long friendship. I miss Jean. In her memory Pamela and I have planted her beloved snowdrops to bloom forth in our garden this Spring.
I am so thankful to have had Jean in my life- a very special person Indeed.