Creole Tomatoes

photo by kristen bach

Aging Magnolias

there's nothing more pristine and creamy white than the petals of a young magnolia blossom. the soft white curves of the petals,the golden architecture of the stamens,the glossy,dark green leaves that frame them all, it's  a vision of perfection. but even when they age, they exhibit a statuesque beauty as they dry and turn to golden brown.

photos and words by rebecca wood

onions

photo by rebecca wood

Vines of NOLA

while i was in NOLA i saw many vine covered buildings.  it doesn't take long for a vine to take over a structure.   while i know these vines are not welcome....there is something quite lovely about them.

photos by kristen bach

red passion flower

photo by kristen bach

little flower school, brooklyn

around this time last year, my mom, sister and sister-in-law and i all went to nyc for a little trip. we went to do a workshop at the

little flower school

. we had such a great afternoon – they had a wall of flowers waiting for us and vessels and snips. the theme was 'Dutch Masters' so we each created an arrangement that had a palette and the drama found in the Dutch Masters' paintings. it was a fun way to spend a day together and we all left inspired.

photographs and words by rinne allen.

the brightest blooms

photo by kristen bach

cafe du monde

we just got back from a dreamy (and steamy) visit to new orleans.  i am not sure if there is a better way to start off our recap than with a story on cafe du monde . 

we stopped here to get a cup of their chicory coffee and an order or two of some beignets.  you can't leave new orleans without a visit to cafe du monde.

http://www.cafedumonde.com/

photos and words by kristen bach

thistle

photo by kristen bach

summer walks

this weekend take a walk through the fields.... and through the flowers

photo by kristen bach

pines + rain

photo by kristen bach

magnolias

boy, if you ever get a chance to study magnolia flowers, do it! they are so elegant and mysterious and grand. not to mention the richness of their white petals, so creamy!  i studied and drew magnolias while they bloomed. here's a magnolia study for you.

photos and words by rebecca wood

insects

photo by Kristen Bach

a beautiful barn

barns are one of those buildings that can stick in your head.  i have passed this one several times on random country drives and every time i say....that is the best looking barn!   it is one of those that i drive by just to look at.

photos and words by kristen bach

ombré roses

a few weekends ago my cousin got married, and a bunch of our cousins got together to do the flowers. we brought things from our gardens, things from friends' gardens, and also things from elsewhere. the roses were at their peak this weekend, so we (luckily) had lots to work with. the next day, i hated to throw them out, so, after giving some away, i made them into this ombré on my porch. so beautiful...

words and photographs by rinne allen.

deer tracks

photo by kristen bach

mint and honey spritzer

our herb garden is overflowing with mint right now.  they other night we had some friends over and i wanted to make a refreshing little drink.  i whipped up this simple mojito inspired spritzer for our guests.

ingredients

a bunch of mint (leaves only)

3 limes

honey

sparkling water

directions

-in a food processor, process mint & honey until finely diced 

-in a pitcher, mix in sparkling water and honey to taste

-pour thorough cheese cloth or a colander to remove mint pieces

-enjoy over ice

****you can add a light rum if desired

photo and recipe by kristen bach

petunias

photo by rebecca wood

pottery sales

this past weekend was the semi annual pottery sales out in nearby farmington. there are lots of good potters out there, and so much fun to drive out in the country and visit all the studios.  not to mention fun to see all the creativity.  i buy some pots for inspiration and to support these people i love, who, like me, are pouring their energy into trying to make a living doing what they love.  got to support that.

photos and words by rebecca wood