Seattle…

It was so great to see good friends again.  Marilyn and John could not have been more hospitable.  Going to their cabin in Entiat was fantastic.  It was such a treat to spend some time at their beautiful cabin right on the Colombia River.  Waking up from a cozy sleep and seeing the mountains reflecting on the river was nothing short of incredible.  Spending our days wine tasting at several of the gorgeous nearby wineries,  then returning to the cabin…cooking ,  more wine tasting,  good food,  and great company, including M and J's good friend Allyson,   couldn't have been better.  I got to watch Marilyn and John transfer her wine to the barrel… another treat… can't wait to taste that. The Apple Orchards were stunning and heavy with fruit… soooo beautiful.  Driving back to the house from the cabin we got to take in all of the gorgeous colors of Fall… a quick stop in charming  Leavenworth for lunch,  then on with the scenic drive.  A visit to Molbaks Garden and Home  is always a must, but so difficult to leave without buying any plants.  Brought Marilyn some new Fire starters that I had made… We shared  cooking and crafting ideas… inspired by all of the pretty Pumpkins,  I showed Marilyn how to make a succulent topped pumpkin and made a green one when I got home.  Spending the day with Angie was so great,  reminiscing,  and wishing that Priscilla was there with us,  while Marilyn and I prepared dinner and made Apple Pies.  Gina and Tony joined us for dinner… it was a great evening. The weather was nice and cool,  sunny and cloudy,  with a nice rain shower at the cabin one night …just perfect.

Dolce Estate… Sweet Summer…

It seems like June just started,  yet, it's well on it's way… My birthday, along with wonderful celebrations by friends and family  came and went…as did Father's Day.  Time for savoring long days,  beach picnics, and gatherings with loved ones.

Accendifuoco… Firelighters…

After so much heat,  we finally have some cool weather ahead,  and maybe even a little rain… Time for  a warming fire,  and cozy dinners… I think that making fire starters using my dried roses,  and clippings from the garden will become a pre Christmas  tradition for me… such a pretty way to start a fire…