Author: Spence's Girl

Retired and exploring things that interest me as well as falling in love again with books, extreme gardening, gourmet cooking & dining, travel and photography.

A return to tradition

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For many years Spence and I enjoyed Scallops Chambord on New Years Eve with a chilled bottle of Prosecco, a roaring fire and a great movie. We looked forward to this decadent meal with the anticipation of kids on Christmas morning.

That changed after I lost Spence in 2017. I put the tradition on pause, it felt too sad to continue it. I hoped I’d feel differently one day and this year I did. The passage of time, gratitude for good health and so many blessings in my life allowed me to embrace our tradition once again. It was fabulous!

I’m adding a link to the recipe from an earlier post in case you’re inspired to try my recipe https://spencesgirl.com/2015/12/31/scallops-chambord/ and I wish you all a Happy New Year!

In the garden, November 1

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While there is a chill in the air in Michigan, a combination of rain and sunny days has kept my garden flourishing. A freeze is imminent so I’m getting some photos of the last beautiful blooms …while I can. Enjoy!

  • Iris
  • Rose
  • Hydrangeas
  • Heather
  • Verbena
  • Snap Dragons
  • Geraniums
  • Geraniums
  • Sweet Williams
  • More irises ready to open

Autumn Wine Tasting

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Autumn in Michigan is my favorite season with cooler nights, leaves changing color and this year unseasonably mild day time temps.  My BFF invited me to visit her in Traverse City for a couple of days and wine tasting at several vineyards – including a 3 course wine pairing -were on the agenda. Northern Michigan’s west coast has a robust wine region. With elevations overlooking the bay and endless rows of vines heavy with clusters of grapes, natural beauty surrounds you.  The wine tasting rooms are elegant, inviting and always a fun way to enjoy the day.  It was sunny so we opted to sit outside while they brought us wine flights to sample overlooking views like this. Perfection.

 

In the garden 9/16/21

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Leaves are falling and my garden is still producing beautiful blooms. As I did my daily “garden tour” I was inspired to photograph and share them.

I’ve been obsessed with hydrangeas for years but have had little success other than healthy green plants. In April I hired a professional landscaping company to make the front of my home prettier. Among other lovely plants he brought in three hydrangeas, all of which have been blooming for months, I was thrilled. Success at last!

Always lovely are my turtleheads, flowering garlic chives and annuals that continue to add punches of color…

Life is better when surrounded by the beauty of nature isn’t it?

Tolerance

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Biscotti has been amazing about sharing things with his little sister Reo who we adopted 5 months ago. She’s taken over ownership of the cat tree, sleeps on top of the mini fridge on the porch both of which were previously Biscotti’s domain.

The one spot he still called his own is my desk chair. Often during the day and always at night, it’s where he sleeps and chills out when he needs a bit of “me-time”.

Until this weekend…..

“Seriously?” Biscotti’s tolerance is being tested.

Time will tell if Biscotti will stage a coup to reclaim his ownership, time-share or simply wedge himself in next to Reo for a snuggle. For now, he’s tolerant.

Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, a “must see” in Vegas

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Just back from my first flight since February 2020, for a small family reunion with all four of us vaccinated. Spending time together sans masks, with laughter, hugs and fun was a gift after months of pandemic isolation. When in Vegas, we always visit the fabulous Bellagio Hotel and Casino. Their Conservatory and Botanical Gardens change seasonally and the horticultural creativity and scale of their displays are inspired and breathtaking.

Scenes from Tennessee

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Driving into Cades Cove, what a thrill
Look closely, a momma bear and two cubs
Momma bear and one cub moved along then realize this one is lagging behind
Momma bear calls and he takes off running
Old Mill
Old Mill
Roses
I had to take this photo
Local wine
My nightly routine, wine at sunset from my deck
I love this photo, my view of peaceful Wears Valley with the little white church in the foreground.

Sunrise, Sunset Repeat

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There is something magical about Tennessee that draws me back year after year. With the Great Smoky Mountains as a backdrop and overlooking Wears Valley, the view from my cabin is ever-changing. Rising early to watch the sunrise – this year with a rooster cock-a-doodle-doing in the valley and enjoying a glass of wine while witnessing every sunset is a priority for me. It’s a perfect way to bookend a day in Tennessee and never disappoints.