Saturday, May 26, 2018

This is strange



I had no idea.


For the first time in 23 years, a pair of wild Canadian Geese brought their goslings to our pond.  



Occasionally we have a brave duck bring her brood.  





When geese stretch their necks like this that means that they are ready for a fight.  They don't have any goslings and they are jealous.  






Every now and then one of the adult geese would disappear for a day or 2.  Then, would reappear with two or more goslings. 




Originally we had 7 goslings. 
Now there are twelve. 

I have not known for Geese, or any other bird, hatch their young in spurts.
Females usually stay on their nests until all have hatched.  






My lilacs are beautiful this year.  
They survived a late frost. 





Amaryllis brought in from my greenhouse.
They used to bloom just before Christmas. 





Since last October I have painted nonstop.  Murals and tiles for new and remodeled kitchens.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend on this very special holiday. 

Gina 




Friday, May 4, 2018

It's not like me



Seldom do I want to go back to places I have been,
no matter how interesting or how beautiful. 


It's because I always want to know what is just around the corner. 



But there is a very special place, hidden in a valley, in the Tuscan countryside, that keeps calling us from year to year.  




It's Relais Sant Elena in Bibbona, Italy. 

Only a few miles south of Livorno and only a few minutes from the Tyrrhinian Sea. 




This beautiful and bountiful breakfast is served every single morning.




Not just one table but several, laden with delicacies.

Everything is super fresh and wholesome.  




I called.  Our suite is available.  




See you there.

Until then, wishing you a great weekend,

Gina