the invasion begins

Every year we have this issue with the Japanese beetles.

They always choose at least one plant to make a meal of.

Apparently they thought it would be my basil this year.

ARGHH!!

Hopefully I've rescued it and prevented any further nibbling

by moving it inside, because I was really enjoying the

fresh basil.

in love

I saw the most beautiful cheery orange hibiscus plant at the zoo.

I was in love with it.

I wanted to take it home with me.

There was an orange hibiscus tree on my deck that night.

I love my husband!!!

There was a beautiful first bloom on it yesterday.

Did I mention I love my husband?

hydrangeas

I promised a picture of the hydrangeas, so here it is!

flashback

Brian and I used to go hiking together all the time when we were first married.  Living in East Tennessee, you've got tons and tons of great places to hike.  Even when we were in Georgia there were plenty of places (just hard to do with kids in tow).  Last night B suggested we go hike this trail that we like here instead of going to the gym.  Awesome.  Anything to get off that elliptical! 

It was the perfect day - great weather - peak autumn colors - peaceful and quiet.  And a flashback to those days in Tennessee.  Loved it.