Flower Anticipation

My problem with perennials is that you are always saying goodbye. I have been waiting and waiting for this clematis to open. Now that it has obliged, I want it to stay forever. As soon as my flowers appear I am beginning to say goodbye. I almost prefer the anticipatory stage before they bloom because I don't want to see them fade! Thank goodness for happy little annuals that will bloom on endlessly!

Ernest Markham Clematis