At the Italian Gardens within Hyde Park. So lovely. A frozen custard truck was parked nearby, providing a welcome and quaint refreshment. Sigh. I can’t wait to return!

During a fun, hot summer in Florence a few years ago, I had the incredible opportunity to sail under the city’s major bridges on the Arno River. Here’s a fun picture from that wonderful excursion, just me and a few of my friends! I was the only American onboard.

I’d say it’s pretty clear that I was enjoying myself on this rare experience! Forza!

I cannot wait to get back to Italy and continue my adventures there. Soon!

The Ara Pacis Augustae is a monument in Rome that is a miracle. The fact it survived relatively intact for 2000 years is one aspect of the miracle. The workmanship and ultimate form is another. Sigh. Ah, Roma!

My readers may remember when I posted about a very cool mid-century house and garden design in my neighborhood during the spring. The allium blossoms were stunning and definitely captures the eye.

The thing is, even after the purple blossoms have faded, this particular set of alliums leave a striking stem and dried blossom skeleton.

Who would have ever thought that skeletons could be so ravishing? And the stems, some with their languid curves. I swear I feel I’m in Egypt, looking at lotus blossoms in the Nile.

What a great garden!

Summer finally hits…the next thing you know, it’s in full swing! Just wish the season was longer.

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