SURPRISE, SURPRISE, SURPRISE

Even in our normal gardening routine, we occasionally meet with a “what’s that?” moment but none has surpassed this swiss chard root passing itself off as a multi-headed mutant of some kind. Look at the size of this beast. It was a veggie root so we investigated the possibility of cooking it but we couldn’t even cut it!

As we plan and prep for a complete new look at the Chauffeur’s Quarters pergola (of sorts), we found that Randy the wisteria had become a jack-in-the-beanstalk wanna-be. He marginally bloomed this year but it wasn’t until we were assessing the new construction that we found he had grown weary of our pergola offering and had opted for the 60’ pine tree behind the patio! Our estimate is that Randy has surreptitiously winded his way at least 40’ into the bows where our family of ravens always set up housekeeping. We will be extra cautious in our demolition and rebuild that we disturb Randy as little as possible.

We are entering into the season when zinnias reign supreme. Mother Nature makes the most demure while at the same time outspoken colour combinations.

And then there is this perfectly-hued hibiscus.

Thanks to Bill Hancock for capturing this rare sundown bloom and of course to the honeybees who help make it happen.

We couldn’t NOT take literally a 15-second sneak peek at our bee ladies.

Tremendous stupendous summer work girls!