Today is just one of those winter days to be treasured. The sky is an intense cyan blue; and with temperatures in the mid-50’s F, it feels almost balmy. I had to take the opportunity to go out into my garden and take some photos. This was my favorite of the afternoon.
Have a beautiful day!
I’ll confess – I didn’t want to spend too much time taking photos outside today. I’m more of a fair-weather photographer. The rain, sleet and hail, have done a good job of turning into snow – for now; but I thought that I’d share this shot from earlier today, when, we were still having a bit of everything coming down. Brrr … what a cold, gray, wet day. Ah, how nice to be back inside with some hot tea!
In honor of Valentine’s Day, I just published a gallery of photos from some of the weddings that we have had the honor of hosting at The Morning Star. Unfortunately, I don’t have photos from all of the weddings, but I hope that you enjoy the images that we do have. Since most of our weddings are garden weddings, the gallery includes lots of garden photos.
A special after-dinner coffee made with dark chocolate and chocolate vodka. Don’t forget to dip your strawberry in the whipped cream before drinking! Happy Valentine’s Day!
Valentines’ Mocha (serves 2)
1 c. fresh-brewed, good decaf coffee
1 oz. dark chocolate
1 oz. chocolate vodka
1 T. dark brown sugar
1/4 c. heavy cream
2 large, ripe strawberries (cleaned and stemmed)
cinnamon sugar
1. Place coffee, chocolate, vodka and dark brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until chocolate and brown sugar are melted and blended into the coffee.
2. Meanwhile, whip cream until it holds soft peaks.
3. Pour coffee into two glass coffee mugs. Garnish mugs with strawberries. Top with whipped cream and cinnamon sugar. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
In honor of Library Lovers’ Month, the Manhattan Public Library has invited people to say what they love about the library. In addition to the obvious things – the book collection and the helpful staff – I love its trees. Pictured here are Red Bud and White Bud trees by the Poyntz Avenue entrance. I can’t wait to see them in bloom again this spring!
Looking eastward, this is our next door neighbor’s porch as seen through one of our “Summer Snowflake” viburnums. The trees, in summer, create a delicate white-flowered screen between the two houses. In winter, though not flowering, they still provide interest and, from certain angles, allow just a peek at next door.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
For more on the Daily Prompt …
To give, or not to give, roses for Valentine’s Day?
A Taste of Morning 