The Name

When we found the ideal place in Sonoma for our home, vineyards and a small winery, we considered it a joyful omen that a poppy-lined creek flowed through it.  “Amapola” is the beautiful Spanish word for “poppy” and in the spring and early summer, the property is literally blanketed with this cheerful orange flower – which, by the way, happens to be the California state flower.

Amapola is also the title of a popular song of particular sentimental significance for Richard.  Clyde Arrowood, Richard’s father, was a Big Band enthusiast and musician who played string bass in a local Dance Band Orchestra.  His mother, Donna, loved the song “Amapola”, which first hit the charts as she celebrated her birthday on March 14, 1941.  The original recording was made by the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra with vocalists Helen O’Connell and Bob Eberly, but Richard is fond of, and recommends, the Benny Goodman recording.

The lyrics:

Amapola
My pretty little poppy
You’re like that lovely flower, so sweet and heavenly
Since I found you
My heart is wrapped around you
And loving you it seems to beat a rhapsody

Amapola
The pretty little poppy
Must copy its endearing charm from you
Amapola, Amapola
How I long to hear you say, I love you