Beautiful back porch begonias blooming today!

So excited to have some black-eyed susan’s blooming in my garden!!! For those that have followed me for awhile, know how I’ve struggled. For years I’ve tried to grow them as they’re one of my all-time favorite flowers. But to no avail. Everyone said they’re so easy to grow. That they’re too invasive. That they’ll spread all over in no time. To which I said “Yes please!”

But year after year I would get nothing.

No matter if I planted plants, or seeds, or divided pieces from friend’s gardens… I tried EVERYTHING!!! So imagine my excitement now that I seem to have three plants that have “survived” and are now in their third year!!! And they’re FLOWERING!!! I’m hoping I’ve broken the curse?!!!

Some more pretty flowers just down the street. Every year these stargazer lilies start to bloom… and I’m reminded that I’ve wanted to add these to my garden too. But at this point in the summer… it’s a bit too late to get them planted!!! Maybe next year?…

So excited for my first dahlia of the summer!!! I got the tubers in the ground a little later than normal… and didn’t pre-start them inside either. So I think we’re a little behind… but worth the wait. Hopefully a lot more flowers to come!!!

After a string of dry heatwave days, I’m sure the hydrangeas
were much happier after yesterday’s sudden thunderstorm!

Just another stamped vase fulfilling its destiny! Showing off the flowers so nicely. Special thanks to my art fair friend Maria who surprised me with the beautiful pink hydrangeas & lavender hosta blooms fresh from her garden!

After the storm rolled through, I ventured out from my studio to go to the Farmer’s Market. It was my first trip of the summer… always exciting to see what they’re offering this time of year. So many colors. So many flavors. All in a new location in Andersonville… seemingly with more vendors than last year!!!

Colorful lilies in the garden to brighten your day.

After the rain… err, or should I say “between” the rain as it looks like there’s more in the way later tonight. Cool raindrops caught in the crazy-fun flowers of my front garden’s smoke bush!

Summer lilies blooming in the garden. Sweet smelling & a sweet sight to start the day!