Visit to Dallas Arboretum

I love visiting public gardens because I get to see rare plants, and I get inspiration for my own garden.   I had the opportunity to visit the Dallas Arboretum, and I wanted to share a few of my favorite gardens.  

McCasland Sunken Garden 

Crape Myrtle Allee

Artwork by Dale Chihuly

Chihuly glass sculptures will be on display at the Dallas Arboretum through November 5, 2012, and they are illuminated on certain nights.

Blue glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly surrounded by mist

Toad Corners

Persian Pond

Persian Pond

Persian Pond

Crocheting Summer Baby Blanket

Photo: Crocheted Summer Baby Blanket

I am crocheting a light, lacey crib blanket this summer.  I have been taking my time doing a little here and there, and I can see this becoming a regular thing because I find it so relaxing.

I am almost done with my first ball of LION BRAND Babysoft yarn in Pink Lemon, and I am about half way done with my project so I will probably end up using one or two more balls of yarn to create a 27" x 38" crib blanket with decorative edging.

For you crocheters or soon-to-be crocheters who like this pattern just look up the "Snapdragon Snitch" pattern from 63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches : Combine Stitches to Make Throws, Pillows, Totes & More (Leisure Arts 3916), ISBN 1-60140-209-0.  It is one of my favorite crochet pattern books, and it only cost about $5.  Not only are the patterns beautiful, but the author also does a great job explaining how to create basic stitches and provides clear directions on how to create these patterns.  

Fennel Seeds Ripening

Photo: Fennel Seeds Ripening

The fennel seeds are ripening.  Hopefully, this time I can harvest a good amount of fennel seeds before the birds make a snack out of them.  I am going to use the seeds to flavor meats and possibly make fennel tea.