A couple of weeks ago, my first peony bloom of the season opened up, which for me heralds the beginning of a month of the most beautiful flowers in the world. My gardening self just lives for this moment in time. Few things rival the spectacle of peonies in bloom, in my book. I experienced a bout of mild hysteria when I learned that I would not be able to grow these pretties in Texas. So for any of y'all who can grow peonies, please do! For the sakes of those who cannot. ;o)
Now I won't be winning any awards for floral arrangement any time soon, but this bunch smells so good that at the very least I'll call it a room freshener.
At any given moment during the summer, my sink is usually surrounded by some nature of bloom ...
... and almost always at least one immature bud that Jack and Amelia have plucked for me.
The past month has been a whirlwind of activity for us. We have been planning, painting, packing, planting, and partying. That's right! Jack and Amelia celebrated their 2nd and 4th birthdays, respectively.
Both of the babies (I know, Amelia is four) got bicycles, some new books, and some paint sets. The paint sets were thanks to Kiki, of course, so we will be sure to bring those to her house when we visit. She forgets that she has a baby now, and I will gladly retaliate. reciprocate all of her good deeds.
Jack on his new bicycle (before even getting it home)
In the past couple of weeks, we have also battled some fever-inducing funk around here. It started the Saturday evening before Easter. It always breaks my heart when they are sick (especially on a holiday!), but it makes me all the more thankful for the many, many days that they are healthy. I am guilty of taking that for granted, and when they do get sick and are laid up on my lap, thankfulness for their otherwise good health just overcomes me. I'm blessed.
Poor Amelia, barely fever-free, Easter dinner
Since they didn't get to wear their Easter best on actual Easter Sunday, I'm thinking they will wear them this Sunday. Because Amelia has begged no fewer than a million times to wear this dress.
Who could blame her? Isn't it sweet? I found it at Goodwill last winter for less than $1.75. I get so many emails about dressing Jack and Amelia. I would venture to guess that 95% of what they wear is consignment, and oftentimes Goodwill purchases. You really don't have to break the bank for cute children's clothing.
Okay, I feel like I am sorta kinda caught up ... :o) There is a crew outside at this very moment painting the outside of the house. I am so excited to see it finished. And then the house goes on the market!
