Hydrangeas and Begonias

This has been a great year for hydrangeas and begonias. This hydrangea languished for a few years until my friend, Marge Staed advised me to stop cutting the canes down to the ground. The result has been spectacular.

The begonias have also been beautiful this year, whether it be in the urns Mary brought back from Italy,

the oversize cup and saucer given to me by Mike and Marge Staed,

garden urns,

or, in a flower box outside Sophie's playground kitchen.

Welcome to my garden begonias.

Sand Sculpting Festival 2010

I got up real early this morning and drove over to Revere Beach to watch the contestants, from all over the United States and Canada, put the finishing touches on their sand sculptures.

Peaches and Cherries

I go to the computer and find the recipe for Peachy cherry-almond tart, Mary's favorite.

Using my new cherry pitter.



Almond paste makes this tart so delicious.




My mini-computer next to me on the counter top is so convenient.

I arrange the fruit on the pie crust in a tart pan.

The almond paste is blended with 2 tablespoons of soft butter.

Two eggs are mixed in, one at a time.

Two tablespoons of flour is mixed in and the batter is then spooned over the fruit.

The tart is baked in a 400 degree oven for 40 minutes.

After cooling for 1 1/2 hours, the tart is placed on a platter.

and served.

Very good with a little whipped cream!

Entertaining Michelle and Doug at poolside

Yes, I was there, behind the camera as usual.