As far back as Ancient Rome people gave each other flowers based on the month of their birth. The Victorians took it to a whole 'nuther level, and by the time they were done, the giving of flowers had become its own language, especially useful for romantic exchanges between people who couldn't say what was on their minds.

Imagine the chagrin of a Victorian lady receiving (horrors!) yellow roses, indicating her beloved's affections were on the wane. She would have been happier with larkspurs, which would have indicated to her educated flower-sensitive mind "strong bonds of love."

This was all news to me, a pragmatist who prefers books or lasagna to pearls or candy. I may be married today because I let him know: I dislike diamonds, find cut flowers depressing (they die!), and am allergic to chocolate (really.)

So I had to come up to speed on the language of flowers, with the help of a mom who worked with me until I produced these silhouette renditions of her five kids. I like the idea. I like the old-fashioned silhouette, and I like the delicacy of what you can convey with it.

BTW, these would be a great idea for Mother's Day gifts. Message me to get on my project list to have your own done, replete with the details that tell the story of the silhouetted child. And, as always, you can sign up for blog posts!