Saturday, June 27, 2009

The Yellow Finch and Garden

I wonder what blossoms await their stardom this morning. 50 degrees and a most inviting cool breeze accompanied a little stroll to locate the offerings. Would you look at this Regal Trumpet Lily (Lilium Regale). I cannot imagine a garden without this fragrant beauty that was brought to us via China's Szechuan region.

What could be my favorite rose in the garden is R. "Louise Clements". What's not to love about her gorgeous color and amazing fragrance! and this poppy has blossomed non-stop.

Okay, it's not a blossom, but clearly stops me in my tracks any time it does this. Acer griseum (paperbark maple) struts its stuff all year long with its wonderful cinnamon colored bark, and for me, it is all about the bark!

The finch were so active, hurriedly scurrying and flitting about the morning garden, and as I turned back toward the front of the house they were flying in and out of the fountain, doing what they had to do, for they knew the coolness of the day would be transformed into the heat of the mid-80's. Quickly they disguised themselves within the neighboring trees as I came closer.

I sat motionless under the netted tent, enjoying this beautiful Saturday morning and purposefully waited and watched in hope of seeing the male yellow finch. Soon several somewhat dull yellowish-brown females ventured to the fountain for a sip or two, one decided to bathe, and in their very nervous way, abruptly again flew away. Back and forth, in and out... the little ladies were sprucing up for the day.

Abundantly available in our garden, they are delightful creatures as they twit and turn, skirmish about, but curious as only the females have ventured to the fountain. Ah, but there he is! Finally, but just for a few seconds, and shortly thereafter, she followed.

Had he just arrived or had he been lingering, watching, protecting the ladies while they drank?

Time to head back in, but one more for the morning. The Lavender 'Hidcote' is in its glory as am I when I gaze upon its stand. (Painter lady, lavender, daylily 'Lavender Deal')

Friday, June 26, 2009

Fresh Grilled Halibut

Last night's dinner was quick and simple, but excellent and so healthy.

We had gone to Costco to pick up a few things, and as we passed the fish counter, they were reducing the fresh Alaskan halibut to $6.98 a pound. Who could refuse that?

Grilled halibut with a little extra virgin olive oil and lemon pepper...
Fresh snap peas with a few broccoli pieces from the garden, sauteed quickly on high heat in a teaspoon of olive oil, and a dash of kosher salt at the end...
Garden greens with a little vinaigrette
(Note: that's my husband's plate)

We also thought we would try a New Zealand Ti Point Sauvie Blanc for under $9, bottled under the Kirkland brand. High expectation on our part due to the NZ, but tasted too much like grapefruit. I love grapefruit, but for breakfast.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Morning Kiss

A few moments ago while standing in my husband's office and gazing out the window, the sun gave its morning kiss upon the landscape.

It must be time to head outdoors before the heat of the day. 85 is forecast, so if I'm going, it must be now.

Rosa 'Chrysler Imperial' beckons.