At last evening’s JASNA-NY’s event, after a wonderful presentation by Linda A. Chisholm, Ph.D., Columbia University who teaches the history of landscape design at the New York Botanical Garden, each guest received a small packet of seeds.

Some of Jane Austen’s favorite flowers include Sweet William, Columbine, and Cottage Pinks.  The seeds of these flowers can be found at any local nursery.

Wouldn’t it be nice if — in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s death and as a gesture of love and appreciation for her works, as well as a symbol of rebirth — we all planted some of her favorite flowers?

Just as flowers bring beauty to the world so do the works of Austen.  I am grateful for both.