Moving on

There's no cure for sadness better than friendship. Thank you for all your comments and emails. And yesterday, I was welcomed at the May meeting of the Herb Society of America's Pioneer Unit, held at Winedale. I talked about herbs (naturally) and Henry Flowers, who manages the gardens at Festival Hill, brought an extensive, impressive display of nightshades. Fun to be with friends, fun to share what we know about the plants we love. Here's just a glimpse of Henry's display.

























Notice the peppers, tomatoes, and tomatillos. And here's the rest (second photo)--the potato end of the table! Notice the vodka (you knew that vodka is made from potatoes, didn't you?) and the eggplant: the "mad apple," it was called, when it was brought to Europe from Asia. Henry has also included a petunia, a nicotiana, and several other ornamentals.

























A great display that gave people a very clear idea about the remarkable range of this plant family.

Home again for a while, I hope (with just a couple of day trips out), and happy to be here. It's Bill's turn now--he went off to New Mexico this morning, where he can enjoy some R&R and maybe do a little work on the house. Log houses always need something, it seems! Next week, I'm getting back to work on the next Beatrix book, The Tale of Applebeck Orchard. Can't wait to find out what it's all about.

Reading note. Writing a first draft is very much like watching a Polaroid develop. You can't--and, in fact, you're not supposed to--know exactly what the picture is going to look like until it has finished developing.--Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird

Comments

[Crafty Gardener]

What a fascinating exhibit, I would of loved to see it. It saddens me every time I read of the passing of a special friend across the Rainbow Bridge. Lady will live on in your hearts forever. Good luck with the new book. I've got to catch up reading on the Beatrix Potter series.

[Carol, May Dreams Gardens]

I did NOT know that vodka was made from potatoes and I love the name 'mad apples' for eggplant. I'm looking forward to reading the Beatrix books this summer so I'll be ready for the newest one when you've finished it.

[Mimi]

I love your reading note! The idea that a first draft is an adventure, one in which you don't know the end. It makes it so much less intimidating to think of it that way. Thanks for my AHA! moment today. I'm sorry to read about your dog. I hope your spirits have lifted.

[andylynne]

What a wonderful way to display the night shade family. So many different items he brought. I love the way Herb people get in to the spirit of things. They really seem to want to let others know all about the amzing world of Herbs. Not all specialty groups are as forthcoming. Glad you were surrounded by friends and good times. Nothing takes away the ache but time and wonderful company helps tremendously. Can't wait to read the next China book, and am so excited to hear about the next B. Potter book.

[Amy]

Oh yay, I was just coming to your blog to see about a new Beatrix book...I too, can't wait to see what she's up to! And I find it fascinating that you are lead through the writing of a book like that! That's why you write great books!! (and I don't!)
Blessings!
Amy

[Mr. McGregor's Daughter]

I'm glad you're feeling better. I remember too well the feeling of listening for, & not hearing, the clicking of dog nails on the kitchen floor & the jingling of collar & tags.
I love Vodka, so, of course I knew it was made from potatoes. I love the Nightshades! I can't wait for the new book. I find it fascinating that you & authors like you don't know where a story or characters will take you. I guess that's why I read fiction & don't try to write it.