I Simply Remember These Favorite Things, and then I Can Smile All Day
Episode 6, February, 2023
A PLANT
Baptisia ‘American Goldfinch’
What is there not to like about false indigo? It is a tough perennial, beautiful in flower, with handsome foliage and wonderful ornamental fruit. A number of species of Baptisia are native to much of the United States or Canada. I am showing ‘American Goldfinch’ in my friend Scott Beuerlein’s garden near Cincinnati. This is but one of the nativars available, however, there are dozens of others available in a rainbow of colors. If my garden were larger, I’d have them all.
A Garden:
Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island, WA
I have been fortunate to travel to some of the Great Gardens of the World, and Bloedel is very much on that list. Every aspect of this garden is an experience - from the trails to the beautiful Japanese garden and the ponds. However, the moss garden is truly otherworldly and takes you to a place of serenity and calm. The ferry ride from Seattle takes a little planning, but if thinking of a trip out West, don’t miss out on this lovely piece of America. www.bloedelreserve.org
A Book:
I was not sure if I would enjoy a story about a few Appalachian women in the 1930s whose vision was to bring books to the back hills of Kentucky. However, as I turned the pages, the story, often bleak and sad, became hopeful and provided a loving tribute to the power of books. This rare story casts librarians as heroes, and brings to light the smart tough women on horseback whose goal was to share the power of reading. I loved it and so did our book club.
Streaming Show: Foyle’s War
We are watching all sorts of streaming shows these days (way more than we should), but Foyle’s War, set in the beginning of WW2, is still one of our favorites. Although Britain is in the throes of war, Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle still has the job of catching those who would profit from the chaos of the war. Superintendent Foyle is played by Michael Kitchen, a superb actor and once you have watched one episode, you will be hooked. In fact, it was so good that when BBC/ITV tried to cancel it after four years, there was such an uproar from fans that it was renewed for another four.
A Place:
Savannah, Georgia
The city of Savannah is such an easy place to enjoy. We try to find an Air B&B by the water or on one of the many beautiful squares in town – and there are many. If you enjoy history, Savannah will not disappoint. Great beauty, interesting stories and fabulous food. Once there, it is an easy journey to the beautiful barrier islands of Hilton Head, Fripp, St Simon’s and Jekyll – and just down the road lies Charleston, SC. Well worth a vacation.