in bloom

I was greeted this morning by our first hibiscus bloom. Perfect color.

good day on the muddy mississip

It had been a while since Paul and I had been on much of a "date" so we fixed that today. Praying the rain would hold off, we headed to Harbor Town this afternoon to eat at a great grill and meander on the bank of the river in Mud Island. Neither of us had ever been over to Harbor Town before, and as we sat eating, we kept asking ourselves if we were really in Memphis. Much different than the infamous Beale Street atmosphere--quite refreshing. Lots of lovely homes/condos...everything (grocery, doctor, salon, movies) within walking distance and in view of the river.

Waiting on his meatloaf & mashed potatoes...

We just finished our food before the rain began to drop. Snagged a pic in car while we waited and hoped it was just a passing shower...

And it did prove to pass quickly...

The "M Bridge" and a hazy sky...

We had a great afternoon and will definitely make another date to Harbor Town! 

While we enjoyed our holiday, I have to say how very grateful I am for all of the men and women who make our freedom possible.  I can't fathom the sacrifice they and their families have made and are making.  How thankful and proud I am to be an American.

fresh cut favorite

Hydrangeas...my most favorite flower. These came from my mama's yard today. Love having this bright spot on our bar for a few days!

never say never

I said I would never have a dog. I let my Aunt Cherri talk me into it, and brought Reggie home as a surprise gift for Paul last August--he wanted one so badly and needed the company since I was in Starkville at school most of the first four months we were married. Or, at least, that was the argument she suckered me in with.

I said he would never sleep with us. Now he sleeps with us every night. On my side of the bed. Often on my pillow. (Side note: Paul used to get mad that Reggie always sleeps on my side, so one night he insisted we do an experiment to see if it was me that Reggie is attached to or just that particular side of the bed. It is definitely just that side of the bed. Paul wanted us to permanently switch sides, but I refuse.)

I said that people who act like their dog is a person are crazy. I'm certifiable now. The proof: today is his 1st birthday--I went to the Three Dog Bakery this morning and bought him a "pup cake" (you know, like a cup cake.) I even bought him a party hat...I've lost it completely, obviously. And when Paul got home from work we had a little party.

He was reallly enjoying it!

We didn't let him eat all of it, and he thought he was being deprived.

So, needless to say, this dog I said I never wanted has me wrapped. Don't judge me. :)

zuppa toscana

Love this soup--easy and delicious (Paul even likes it!). Thanks to his Aunt Christy for the recipe--we enjoyed it at her house back in the winter. I made it on Mother's Day for an early supper with my mom and grandmother. Great with cornbread. Enjoy.  

1 lb ground Italian sausage

1 large white onion, diced

2-4 tbsp. bacon pieces

2 tsp. garlic, crushed or pureed

10 cups water

5 cubes chicken bouillion

1 cup heavy cream

1 lb (about 3 large) russet potatoes, sliced

1/4 bunch kale, coarsely chopped

Brown the Italian sausage in a large pot; drain and set aside. In the same pot, saute bacon, onion, and garlic for about 15 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix together the bouillon and water, then add it to the onion mixture and cook until boiling. Add potatoes and cook until tender, about 30 minutes. Add cream and cook until heated through. Stir in sausage. Add kale just before serving.