In this lyrical and deeply moving memoir, one of America's most revered actresses weaves stories of her adventures and travels with her mother, while reflecting on the beautiful spirit that persists even in the face of her mother's struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Marcia Gay Harden knew at a young age that her life would be anything but ordinary. One of five lively children born to two Texas natives-Beverly, a proper Dallas lady, and Thad, a young naval officer-she always had a knack for storytelling, role-playing, and adventure. As a military family, the Hardens moved often, and their travels eventually took them to Yokohama, off the coast of Japan, during the Vietnam War era. It was here that Beverly, amid the many challenges of raising her family abroad, found her own self-expression in ikebana, the ancient Japanese art of flower arranging. Using the philosophy of ikebana as her starting point, Marcia Gay Harden intertwines the seasons of her mother's life with her own journey from precocious young girl to budding artist in New York City to Academy Award-winning actress. With a razor-sharp wit, as well as the kind of emotional honesty that has made her performances resonate with audiences worldwide, Marcia captures the joys and losses of life even as her precious mother gracefully strives to maintain her identity while coming to grips with Alzheimer's disease. Powerful and incredibly stirring, The Seasons of My Mother illustrates the unforgettable vulnerability and beauty of motherhood, as Marcia does what Beverly can no longer do: she remembers.

Create dazzling designs step-by-step and spark your creativity with this all-encompassing flower arranging book. Have you ever wondered how florists create such awe-inspiring floral arrangements that look like they've come straight out of a magazine? Well, now you can too! This inspirational and practical book will show you how to arrange flowers beautifully and create modern flower designs, whether it's weddings, for the home and so much more! With passion and petals on every page, you can explore: -Over 60 flower arranging projects to inspire you and unleash your creativity -Arrangements are displayed step-by-step for professional-looking results -Sumptuous photography inspires you to try new flower arranging ideas -Expert tips and tricks throughout the book to maximize your potential Discover a plethora of projects tailored to your home environment, from simple ideas to brighten up your kitchen table, to gorgeous chic wedding creations, this fantastic flower arranging book has something for everyone to discover. Featuring top tips including how to keep flowers fresh, and how to take a simple bunch of flowers and represent them with a florist's touch, incorporating quirky and clever ideas to spark your creativity, from experimenting with colours and containers; to ribbons on roses; this all-encompassing flower book truly does have it all. Breathe new life into your home, whether it's adding momentum to your mantelpiece or revitalizing your kitchen table. Key sequences are easy-to-follow and accessible with DK's step-by-step images. Explore dazzling ideas for flower-giving holidays such as Valentine's Day and Mother's Day. From bouquets to displays, hanging baskets to wrapped roses, this flower arranging book will redefine your relationship with a plethora of plants and teach you a thing or two about flowers along the way! The ideal gift for anyone wanting to give or arrange simple flowers for a special occasion, such as a wedding, anniversary, or baby celebration. Try the art of flower arranging today, and hone your skills for life.

"The Beginner's Guide to Floristry is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to floristry and will delight amateur flower arrangers and professionals alike with its combination of practical advice and inspiration. Step-by-step instructions are provided for a wide range of basic floristry skills, from wiring and taping through to making a bridal bouquet. Inspirational pages feature a range of finished designs, both traditional and modern."

Celebrate a loved one or add a touch of color to your home with these twenty distinctive flower arrangements. Inspired by the elegant and minimalist style of ikebana (the art of Japanese flower arranging), and constructed using the techniques that promote the functionality and portability of Western designs, these arrangements place sophisticated style into small containers that are easy to move from room to room or to the hands of a friend.
Illustrated with beautiful photographs, each arrangement uses just a few easy-to-find floral materials and Western tools and materials. Clear step-by-step instructions with photographs, along with a range of tips and techniques on manipulating and using the materials, are sure to broaden the skills of both beginners as well as those already familiar with the floral arts.
Make the arrangements in this book and share the gift of flowers with your friends and family.