Beautiful Charleston

Dear Imaginary Friends,

I was lucky to have visited Charleston, South Carolina, this week, and was met with 70 degree weather, bright sunshine, and gentle breezes. The city was blessed with blooms. It was the perfect stage for the Historic Home and Garden Tour, which raises funds for preservation efforts across the city. 

Charleston is a gracious city enhanced by fresh spring weather and delicious architecture. It is not unlike its sister city New Orleans, in its embrace of southern food, hospitality, and preservation of its storied buildings. 

Fried green tomatoes at Blossom were outstanding!

The Philadelphia Flower Show

Laura Dowling lectures on floral diplomacy at the 2016 Philadelphia Flower Show. 

Harbor Sunset, 9 X 12", Oil, c. Patricia Uchello

Ikebana Show at the Art League

Inside the Torpedo Factory Art Center is a fabulous exhibit: the Art League's Biennial Ilebana Exhibit, where flowers meet art. This is not a flower painting show but rather, an interpretation of  art through Ikebana floral arrangements. The talent evident in both the arrangements and the vessels is exquisite. Run and see it, as flowers don't live forever. This weekend, head on down!

Dorinda's Zinnias

I recently completed this painting commission, after spending months laboring over it for best results. It is 12 X 12", oil on canvas. Sold yesterday! I am pleased with the painting, which is more important to me than the price .

San Antonio, Texas

In addition to warm weather, San Antonio offers the beautiful Riverwalk and the very old Alamo, a history lesson in itself. Situated southwest of Austin, San Antonio is a brief drive worth the effort. 

Things to See in Austin

The Driskill Hotel-- historic and beautiful 

Caseys Snowballs! Who knew?

Lady Bird Lake behind the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin