Sunflower time...

This lovely sunflower is under construction!
The buds are on top, just about ready to bloom.

This is my first attempt at planting sedums in a container.

I have to say, I am addicted. The textures are unlimited. They require no mainenance. Compared to the daily watering of my perennials, my annuals, and my herbs & tomatoes, these little gems are a piece of cake. They seem to change almost daily. I have a lot to learn about these, but I intend to experiment. There are some amazing web sites showing vertical sedum wall plantings. Look out, back yard. This could be scary-

Bennett's Corn

My grandson, Bennett, decided months ago that he wanted to grow some corn. He has always helped in the garden, so this year he got his own plot. It's not very big, but the corn is doing just fine. It grows so fast - he has to check on it every time he comes over to visit. Pretty soon it will be as tall as he is, then it will pass him by. It sould be fun to watch him harvest his first ears of corn.

Board Of Directors Dinner

The Traveling Tuesday Board Of Directors planned an impromptu potluck dinner in my back yard.  It was an evening of laughter, relaxation, and casual summer cuisine. Summer is all about enjoying the outdoors, with great friends and good food.

















This little mermaid always gets her picture taken. She has aged well...





















Kids love to play in the garden - no matter what age they are. These two are no exception.





















Jason enjoys a moment with my garden statue...he so appreciates fine art.

From My Kitchen Window

This is the view from my kitchen window. It's the first thing I look at when I head for a cup of coffee in the morning The trellis is a gift from my mother. A friend recommended the Chinese red honeysuckle, which attracts hummingbirds every year. I'd have to say this trellis is one of my favorite places in the back yard. Our daughter and her friends posed here for a photo on the evening of her prom - we hosted a lovely back yard dinner for about 30 of her closest friends. Our back yard is filled with memories. I know there will be many more good times to be had in my back yard.

Love Blooms

Here's a lovely addition to my garden.

My step-brother, Gus, and his fiance, Deborah recently sent me this beautiful invitation for their wedding. It is made from recycled paper, and embedded with flower seeds. A little note on the back explains that the invitation can be placed in the soil, watered, and soon flowers will grow. What a beautiful idea. I was filled with joy as I planted this little gem. Gus is a wonderful young man. Deborah is a lucky lady, and I hope to meet her soon. Until then, as the seeds turn into flowers, I'll think of them every time I check their progress. I'll have to send them a picture when the flowers bloom, and let them know we are all thinking of them. I wish them both happiness, love and joy. Love blooms.



Hydrangea Propagation

I have always wanted to try this. After reading several articles and checking a few gardening web sites, I gathered my supplies and my good friend Lori. Between the two of us we have Annabelle, Oakleaf, Blue Nikko, Pink Alice, and a Lavender Lace Cap. We cut the stems, dipped them into the rooting powder, and then planted them in sand. Seems there are many options regarding the use of soil, sand, or a sterile medium, etc. We settled on sand when the manager of the garden center offered some to us for free. We just had to promise to return and shop there. But that's another story.

The cuttings are done, watered, and living (I hope) in the shade in the back yard. Like I said, we'll see what happens. We are hoping for  great success. In the mean time, I'll baby them along with daily misting.

There's nothing better than spending time in the garden with a good friend.