Bloom
While May typically marks the beginning of my gardening season, this year was a bit different. We were out of the country for most of May so I missed the opportunity to purchase culinary starter plants, specifically tomatoes, peppers and herbs. The cutting garden, however, is packed with annual flowers that I started from seeds back in March, complimenting the perennial plants that come back every year.
In June, the peonies come into full bloom. It’s a time I eagerly anticipate each year as peonies are my ultra favourite. Every season, my peony harvest grows larger.
An established peony can yield 25 to 30 flowers per plant. Amazing!
Last fall, I added three new varieties to my collection and I am pleased to report that one of them has already produced its first bloom. Usually, it takes a couple of years before peonies get established.
Also, I recently picked up a hydrangea called “Magical Cabaret”. I planted it on the front yard. Can’t wait to see how it grows.
Beyond gardening, I’ve been exploring new hobbies. Bread baking! Still riding the high from our Japan trip last month, I came across a post on our community forum for Japanese bread baking lessons. I was able to convince Marco to join me for a one-day class, and both of us had such a blast. I made the popular “Melon Pan”, while Marco did “Matcha and White Chocolate Babka”. We mixed and kneaded the dough by hand. I can’t say it was easy. At one point I was ready to give up because my dough was too sticky given that Melon Pan has higher hydration rate than the babka, but our instructor was incredibly patient and she did help me at the end.
The class fee included ingredients and lunch.
Beyond
We recently attended a Japanese food festival held near downtown, called Yatai-Montreal. We enjoyed trying various food and soaking up the cultural atmosphere. Our friends, Mon and Jojie, picked us up at home and carpooled there. It was our first experience– and what a fun-filled day it was.
Mid-June, Riel travelled to Plattsburgh, NY for a two-day golf tournament with his Thursday group. It was a first for him and definitely won’t be the last. I wanted to join, but it was an all-guy affair. For now, photos will do.
Some sewing successes, I sewed six garments this June — three tops, a vest and two pairs for wide-leg pants. I’m thrilled with the fit and can’t wait to wear them soon.
Once the size and fit are perfected, the pattern can be re-used as many times across different fabrics – prints, solids, textures, drapes, composition. Endless possibilities.
Before June ended, I had breakfast with my girl friends at a newly-opened restaurant. We all agreed to wear something floral as summer season had officially began, and I proudly wore one I made myself. It was my first time there. The food was good and the ambience was excellent.
