Memorial Day

Korean War Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Una Mariposa

"Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it turned into a butterfly."

                                                       --Unknown

Wedding Prep

With the Iowa state capitol as a backdrop, this is a unique site to have an outdoor wedding.  In downtown Des Moines, this is the area east of historic East Village but actually on the capitol grounds.  In the photo workers waste no time preparing the site for the event, including hauling in chairs and all other props needed for the occasion.  Within a half hour guests began to arrive and the limousine carrying the bridal party shortly thereafter.

Pausing in the Garden

"The greatest gift of the garden 

is the restoration of the five senses."

                                        --Hanna Rion

Capitol Reflection

A neat reflection awaits visitors to downtown Des Moines and the nearby state capitol.  Of course, this is not a new attraction but the gold-colored windows on the south side of the Wallace Building reflect the stately image and gold dome.  According to many news reports, this building that houses the Departments of Agriculture and Natural Resources is in need of major repairs as well as an updated ventilation system due to lead contamination from the building's indoor shooting range.  The latter is no longer operational but various state officials hope to soon allocate funds needed to renovate this widely-recognized structure along with the State Historical Building.

Turning 2

This little darling is about to celebrate her second birthday.  No, she's not my child but rather my adorable godchild -- and I relish that role.  My husband and I don't have children but certainly enjoy time spent with all our nieces and nephews.  A very happy birthday to this special little woman and may she enjoy many, many happy returns.

All Kinds of Blooms

Ever been to the Noelridge Park Greenhouse in Cedar Rapids, Iowa?  If not, consider next year for their annual Mother's Day Open House.  So many beautiful blooms but also succulents, cacti, ivy and so much more.  Most of the annuals are not for sale as soon they will be transplanted into parks in the metro area; however, a few vendors are present and some plants grown in the green house are available for purchase.  It's free.  It's peaceful.  It's packed with eye-popping color.  Check it out.

For Moms

"A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie

 for five people, promplty announces she never did care for pie."

                   --Tenneva Jordan

Signs of the Season

From what I see, this robin does not comprehend words nor symbols.  And, I'm guessing the result would be fried eggs.  Anyway, who doesn't love the color of robin eggs?  That beautiful, unique shade of "robin-egg blue" that is often listed as such in paint samples and household decor.  Obviously, spring is here!