Listening to the Rain

 After weeks of dry weather, it's so good to hear the rain this morning.  The trees are sighing, finally refreshed after some brutally hot days. 

The time is flying here at  English Valley.

Jobs are getting accomplished, lists made and checked.  The kids Mike and Amanda came over for a pow wow, dotting the i's and crossing the t's of a million and one items still to do for their wedding. Trying to enjoy this summer in spite of all the things that need our attention.    We went to our first carillon concert at the Chicago Botanic Garden on the eve of our anniversary.  It was very soothing but not quite as melodic as I expected.  Also the songs were mostly unknown to us except Danny Boy and Send in the Clowns.  Still a beautiful evening in the garden.

 On our anniversary we went to the amazing Blumen Gardens in Sycamore, Illinois.  It is a garden center, gift shop, nursery and wedding venue.  It's a beautiful ride in the country to get there, an a lovely place to shop and drink in the beauty.

 This is not the year for purchasing much, but there is inspiration galore.

 We were wondering if our shed out in the yard could support a sod roof.  Sure looks charming here.

 I love the mix of plantings and pots, something I used this year in our garden.

Loving these paver paths and brick walls as a gorgeous backdrop for the plants.

 Next year our arbor will be covered in bittersweet.  In fact, it needs a trim so we will still be able to see the beautiful ironwork.  The bittersweet was cut all the way back last year when our new arbor went up.  The plant came back like gangbusters, but just one tendril wrapping around the wooden post, the rest a large bush at the base. Fall project.  Wonder if I'll have honeysuckle berries to decorate with?

 Can you imagine how beautiful a outdoor reception would be here?

 Such an unique and lovely space.

 What a great idea.  Some vintage chairs, placed among the pots under a shady tree.
So welcoming and serene. Not the expected outdoor furniture.

 Hibiscus, big as a dinner plate.

These terracotta orbs.  Wow! Yes I'd like a half dozen to drop into the garden at home.

I have already remade Amanda's veil after it was attacked by a naughty cat.  I also made her headpiece.  Elizabeth and I will be working on flowers this week.  We are using silks, which are so much nicer today and  more realistic than in the past.  Photos will follow the big day.

This morning I got the okay from my fashion consultant on my shoes for the wedding.  She said, and I quote.  "Grandma, those shoes are fashionable, they look like a princess' shoes."  So, I have that going for me! Penny has her first loose tooth.  It makes me weep.  I remember waiting for that tooth to pop out.  Have I mentioned lately, that girl is tremendous!  

On a serious note, my dear friend Jean is waiting on results of a scan she had last week.  Jean has been through hell and back, and I pray for good news.  Sending good thoughts and prayers for you Jean.  God bless you always.

Thanks for stopping by and for your friendship and kindness.

Enjoy this beautiful day.

Love, Penny