The Weekend Thus Far In Pictures

Sadly, upon further questioning from the UIUC Plant Lab (thanks Suzanne if you happen to read this) and examining some more limbs of my Amur Maple tree (thank you Susan--what would we do without you?), it looks like the rot has spread throughout it. I am very, very sad. This is the tree I planted in my mother's memory and I have loved it. It still looks great but will be slowly dying. Sigh. Ironic huh? Suzanne told me I should be able to replant....just need to dig out the whole root ball and 6" inches beyond. Not sure how we're going to make that happen with my Cynthia-ness and Ernie's shouder. Damn it. So far my sister's and father's dogwoods are doing o.k. although Susan gives them the side eye every time she comes over....

Saturday morning I make it out of bed (Ernie was persistent) in time to get the farmers' market early and get gorgeous asparagus and greens from our beloved Greg. 

Strawberries from the market we bought as a treat for Owen....

Owen's new note taking system....

I particularly like the "check arm" notation on his hand....just in case he forgets....

Gorgeous plant sale at Sola Gratia (in the parking lot of St. Matthew's in Urbana, today and next weekend 9-4, during this coming week 4-6 I believe). Beautiful plants, great prices and it goes to support Sola Gratia. Win, win, win as they say.... And I FINALLY got to meet Traci Barkley who works there. I have supported Sola Gratia from the beginning, but with Clay and Traci on board they finally have the right team. It's very exciting. Oh and they might still have CSA shares available...I'll stop now....

Busy but good afternoon at work celebrating Children's Day...

Utterly delicious dinner with Ann and Bob. What a delightful treat and fantastic scallops (seared scallops with
roasted potato, chard, green olive tapenade, preserved lemon & caramelized shallot aioli). Company of course outshone even the great food....

Owen had said he'd mow the grass at 10:00 and at 10:00 down he came and went out into the yard without complaint or reminder. I told Leo he needed to go move all the chairs so Owen could mow and out he went to do it without even a sigh.

I have no idea what else this magical day will bring but something is in the air.....