Getting By

Maybe spring isn't coming this year. Maybe this is as good as it's going to get. Cold days, a little snow, warming all the way up into the 40's, then cold and snow again. Does that sound familiar? It makes a gardener think of drink!

There is a little bit of slow progress out there in the garden. The Siberian iris have bloomed and faded already, and now the crocus are just starting. I saw a daffodil trying valiantly to bloom today in the cold sunshine. It's a weak and pitiful kind of spring.

In reality, I know that spring will get here eventually. One day soon, the air will warm up, the sun will shine, and the breeze will turn soft. In the meantime, I'm getting by in the usual ways. I buy daffodils at the grocery store.

I enjoy the red petunias STILL blooming on my kitchen windowsill since last June. They were a gift from my little grandson, and have never once stopped blooming since then. Never.

And I keep checking the weather reports and the buds coming up outside. Sooner or later, one of those two things are going to give me good news! In the mean time, I'm getting by. Spring, could you please hurry up? Please? 

More of Mexico

Since Spring is taking her sweet time to arrive, I thought I'd take another virtual trip to Mexico. It really was the trip of a lifetime, and woe to the person who innocently asks me "How was your trip?" I could go on all day.

 You know it's a great trip when you make new friends, eat delicious food, enjoy the beautiful weather, and experience new cultures. And that was every day!

San Miguel de Allende was a charming and beautiful city. Between the cobblestone streets, the colorful buildings, the church bells ringing, the vendors on every corner, and other local life, it was a place I'll never forget. There are many who come here to visit, and never leave, for it's a popular retirement spot for Americans.

One of the things I remember most was the scent of lavender everywhere I went. The gardens were full of it! There was lavender soap and sachets, of course. Now whenever I smell lavender, I'll think of Mexico.

Another highlight was the wine. I do love wine anyway, but to be enjoying the wines of South America while watching the sunset over this beautiful city was extra special.We even took a winery tour that was nothing like I've ever experienced. In fact, it was so special that I'll wait and write a whole post about it.

I hope to return some day to that beautiful spot, and to visit the new friends I made there. In the meantime, I'll hold the memories close to my heart.