Garden growth

Observing the growth process of plants and flowers is really something, an experience I didn't always take pleasure in. There's a definite reward element in tending a plant and then watching it bloom. Perhaps it's something like a much quicker version of child-rearing. Input-output on a condensed timeline if you will. Here are an emergent pansy and unfurling fern.

Magnificent meatballs, neat pic from the garden

Per the usual, the meatballs were beyond fab. Tom was thrilled, and Jack, who was having trouble getting to sleep, had a big bowl too, declared them "excellent, mommy, you are an excellent cook" and then fell into snores and slumber. The photo I took had an awful glare off a hunk of breadcrumb, and I simply cannot bring myself to post it. I'll take another tomorrow. Meanwhile, the Ramp, Green Garlic and Onion Confit recipe has been posted- keep it in mind if you head to your local farmers market this weekend. Ramps and green garlic should still be available. Look at this neat pic from my garden. I love the way the light is shining through the blooms.

Gibraltar azalea

After a massive snowstorm two years ago, we had to remove a tree that had been injured beyond repair; we replaced it with a tree-form Viburnum, a cool rhododendron and this fabulous azalea native to our area. It's called Gibraltar and has a double bloom. Last spring it remained dormant and sad, but this year we're in for quite a treat!