Kiddipedia
Written by Carol Na
As I contemplate my childhood, it becomes apparent that I have an unusually vivid recollection of the scents surrounding so many precious experiences. Here I am middle aged and still able to recall a myriad of ‘fragrant memories’, captured forever by an unhindered child’s mind … strong Greek coffee and home grown watermelon, apricot nectar, festive sweet breads, freshly caught fish, ocean air, foraged wild greens and the most exquisite scent of all, the Buddleia !
Oh, that Buddleia! Its scent filled our backyard as I played hour upon hour each day, especially days of Spring and Summer. In its branches I discovered the wonder of nature’s cycles. The caterpillar and cocoon of the Buddleia introduced me to my friends the butterflies in which I would delight once their day of transformation finally arrived.
Butterflies filled our suburban backyard along with my friends the bees, who found nectar so sweet in those preciously scented cone shaped blooms. When the bush was in heavy bloom I would dutifully arrange vases full throughout the house. Bringing the beauty of flower and perfume inside seemed so necessary to me. How I adored that tree! The tree of my childhood.
The day came when it was cut down. My dad explained that it had to go. Our neighbour was unhappy about the damage it was causing the fence. At the time I didn’t really mourn its loss or at least I don’t think I did. I was content with dad’s reasoning. Yet I do remember how I yearned for that fragrance again. Perhaps yearning is an acknowledgment of loss.
From that time on it seemed like there were no way near as many butterflies and bees as in the days of the Buddleia. ( I did find a fragrant substitute in our backyard, the Honeysuckle, to keep me content. This discovery introduced me to sweet nectar I would sip right out of its bloom – that is a whole story in itself. Perhaps I’ll keep it for another day).
Interestingly enough I never really knew the name of this childhood love until over 20 years later, on the morning I was set to begin a new job.
My new workplace was situated in the middle of what could be classified as the most impressive established gardens of Melbourne, not unlike something out of an English tale of old with grand buildings and a clock tower to suit. The morning sun glistened through the grand trees as I walked up the winding drive way, in awe of this new place of work. Despite the wonder, I could not ignore my stomach full of butterflies ! What a dreaded feeling !
However, on this day as on more than one occasion as if by miracle when awkward feelings sought to get the better of me, a comforting ‘something’ came my way bringing all discomfort to pass. Just as the risen sun shone brightly into my eyes forcing them shut, a scent, a familiar long lost scent, the scent of my childhood greeted me with its fragrant embrace , as if to say, “Remember me? I’m here to comfort you”.
All at once my being was filled and completely comforted as I welcomed the embrace with more than one deep breath of fresh perfumed air. Upon stepping out of the suns direct gaze, I beheld the tree of my childhood in full majestic bloom. Only this time, instead of gifting me with butterflies, it took them away.
I don’t know if the gardener I had just noticed nearby thought I was somewhat odd or not, but I approached him and asked, ” What is the name of that tree?” He answered, “It’s a Buddleia, commonly known as the ‘Butterfly Bush’ because of the way it attracts butterflies”. My life came full circle that day.
I’m so grateful to my parents who set the stage for my own nature adventures. I often watched them work about our garden and home. They were simple working class folk with little formal education, yet they were well trained in recognising, creating and maintaining beauty. They provided the oasis which became my first school, where I was equipped with valuable life skills that have served me well. As true teachers they used their often silent example, guiding me toward identifying and benefitting from life’s natural lessons.
Nature observation is so valuable to the developing child. Young children are keen observers. Engaging all senses in the process of self learning helps children better understand and remember their discoveries. Other than providing treasured memories, nature observation assists the development of patience, attention and acquiring the habit of moving and thinking in literal ‘real life’ time. A multisensory connection with nature can radically diminish stress and anxiety even in small children. Recent studies have shown how microbes present in garden soil (Mycobacterium Vaccae ) can raise serotonin levels if handled or if particles are inhaled. Now there’s a good reason to go out and play in the mud !
Nature Study is a part of my children’s weekly school routine not to mention a part of our family’s lifestyle. We go on nature walks, we observe and record seasonal changes often through drawings. Each child has their own garden patch. My eldest has plans for creating an Asian garden. He reminded me of that not long ago when I inattentively planted a clove of Russian garlic in his ‘territory’. I tried to convince him of the Eurasian character of Russia and so we compromised, allowing the garlic to stay. My parental heart rejoices in being able to admire my children as they discover, learn, grow in knowledge and create life memories in the places and spaces sacred to our family.
Needless to say , after all that has been said, we have our own Buddleia now. It was one of the first additions to our garden. It’s no secret in our home that ‘Mum is in love with the Butterfly Bush’.
Rejoice with your family in the beautiful land of life! ~Albert Einstein
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