Before It's Too Late

It all began in 1958. From a handful of daffodil bulbs planted in the hillside a dream to pain the 5 acres of hillside with the color of daffodils began. No fertilizer. No summer irrigation. Every year, one at a time, Gene Bauer bent over and planted more bulbs one at a time.

Just like life, it wasn't always easy. The Willow Fire of 1999 destroyed the Bauer's A-frame home, its surrounding shady trees and garden. Fortunately, the fire was swift, and the bulbs in their protective covering of earth survived the scorching.

If you are familiar with The Daffodil Principle, then you are familiar with the private garden, and the ah-ha moment it inspired for author Jeroldeen Aspund Edwards. In the story, which first appeared in her book, Celebration!, the mother of 12 wrote of seeing the garden for the first time
"For me that moment was a life-changing experience. I thought of this woman whom I had never met, who, more than thirty-five years before, had begun - one bulb at a time - to bring her vision of beauty and joy to an obscure mountain top.
Still, this unknown, old woman had forever changed the world in which she lived. She had created something of magnificent beauty, and inspiration. "

For many years, the garden has been open to the public from 10am until 6 pm during the bloom season. But after April 12th, their glorious garden will no longer be open to the public. Gene and Dale Bauer are retiring from their duties of keeping their private Eden open to the public.

So before it is too late, plan a trip up to the San Bernardino Mountains to see what is possible when you have a dream and go forward boldly with intent and persistence.

Let the garden take your breath away.
Celebrate the collaboration of man and nature while it is still possible.

The story of "The Daffodil Principle" is now available for the first time as a an illustrated gift book, with artwork by Anne Marie Oborn.

Jeroldeen Edwards passed away last May of heart disease. But she lives on through her children and literary work.

St Anne in the Mountains Catholic Church will allow you to park in their lot. The Bauer garden is adjacent. It is located next door at 30480 Fredalba Road 30480 Fredalba Road, Running Springs, Ca. 92382 just a short drive off Highway 330.

The photographs of the garden are by Alta Loma photographer Gene Sasse- used with permission. http://www.genesasse.com/

If your favorite local book seller does not have copies of The Daffodil Principle- click here to order

http://www.amazon.com/Daffodil-Principle-Jaroldeen-Edwards/dp/1590382242