Good Morning

The season for strawberries and rhubarb is far too short . I made bread this morning with the last of my precious harvest. Oh, yummmm! I put 2 loaves in the freezer, but I doubt either will survive long before being gobbled up.

In the kitchen

The curtains I made. Super easy after a bit of measuring. I'm slowly making my way to a bistro look.

I have pictures of steaming cups of coffee and capuccino on the wall. This hardware is supposed represent the steam coming from the cups.

Part of tonight's dinner. Yumm, black bean and avocado salsa. My own version.
Black Bean and Avocado Salsa
1 can black beans, rinsed
1 avocado, diced
1/4 c chopped onion
2 scapes, chopped (use 1-2 cloves minced fresh garlic if scapes are not in season)
4 T chopped fresh basil
Mix the above ingredients together and drizzle mixture with a little bit of olive oil (1-2 T) Serve with chips and prepare to fall in love with this salsa.

Scapes are the tops of garlic and they're only available for a couple weeks in the spring before the harvest. They have a peppery garlic taste.

Ducklings

So it's been very busy outside my window lately. Her name is now Dolores Honey Bump Wet Pants as dubbed by everyone who has been watching her progress with her nest.

Babies are finally hatching

We've dubbed this little one 'Princess' as she is the only yellow duckling - and she acts rather like a princess as well.

And this delightful little creature has been dubbed, 'Bandit' on account of his eyes. He's only 2 days old in this picture.

Yes, we actually put a bowl of water out for them. We meant for them to drink out of it, but they seem to prefer it as a swimming pool.

Flat River

In spite of the dire weather prediction yesterday it turned out to be a marvelous day to paddle. The temperature was somewhere in the mid 80's; there was an agreeable breeze throughout the day; the water was pleasant and comfortable, which was perfect for a bit of lunchtime wading and playing with the macro setting; and the river critters and flora were out in full force. Take a peek and enjoy the view.

Damsel Fly perched on my gunwale.

Wild iris.

Kisses from Michigan?

Blue Flag growing on the riverbank.

Dragonflies are the best! It's rare that they land on our boats while we paddle. Guess it was my lucky day.

If you plant it......

she will come. With all her glory and charm to spread beauty throughout her realm. The Princess visiting the castle of the Empress.

Making sure the flowers are growing properly and have the desired glorious scent.

Examing the royal rocks and their placement.

Angel Face

It's blooming again in my garden - beautiful, and absolutely scrumptious smelling! I'm not a fan of roses, but JV assured me I would love this one. I do.