Shrinking Violets

Lots of phrases or words we use have obscure origins but not "shrinking violet", meaning a shy person.  It describes perfectly the characteristic of the humble violet which prefers to shelter beneath the foliage of other plants and peeking out here and there.  I started with three plants over 15 years ago and now they have spread beautifully along the edge of the flower beds.  I look forward to seeing their little faces each May.  Another beautiful, warm day today but some showers and cooler weather tomorrow.  I actually had to turn on the AC yesterday!