I am definitely seasonally oriented to food. I would never think of making soup, pumpkin pie, snickerdoodles and baked ham in the Summer and I can't even consider most salads in the winter.

My family does not agree with my culinary cubby holes, but then they don't cook so are delighted to wait until the weather changes. 

Now that Spring is here it seems time for salads. This year I created a new seasoning mix which is a Green Goddess type dressing mix but I use it for many types of dishes. If you don't have a Green Goddess Dressing mix as I do then a mixture of dill and basil will do nicely.  The freshness of this mix of herbs lends itself well to a variety of Spring and Summer foods and so I thought I might like to try a variation on Tuna Salad.

So far, my Tuna Salad has been met with wonderful reviews. My Tuna Salad lends itself well to either stuffing in a sandwich or tossing it on top of cold, crisp romaine or bibb lettuce as a sort of Salad Nicoise.  The success of this dish will depend upon the quality and freshness of the ingredients and as always, presentation is everything.  After you finish your sandwiches, serve them on a plate garnished with spicy nasturtiums and pickled, sliced red onions. YUM!


Tuna Salad Sandwich

6 - 8 ounce Tuna Steak, grilled just until done or 1 (6 ounce) can of tuna fish (if packed in water, drain it, and add a teaspoon of good quality olive oil)
1/3 cup of cottage cheese
2 Tablespoons of mayonnaise
¼ purple onion, chopped finely
1 small cucumber, diced
1 Tablespoon of capers
Juice of half of a lemon
2 teaspoons fresh Dill*, finely minced or 1/2 teaspoon dry Dill
2 teaspoons fresh Basil*, finely minced or 1/2 teaspoon dry Basil
2 Tablespoons, fresh Parsley* or Cilantro* or substitute with 1 teaspoon dehydrated
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
1 Head Bibb or Romaine Lettuce, torn into bite size pieces. (Seriously Do Not Use Iceberg lettuce)
 
Slices of French bread, lightly toasted
Mix all of the ingredients. Serve on toast, either open faced, or in a regular sandwich with lettuce and tomatoes. This is a wonderful alternative to a calorie laden, high fat version made with lots of mayonnaise and it taste great!

Tuna Salad Nicoise
Add
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata Olives 
2-3 hard boiled eggs, halved.
1 to 2 tomatoes, quartered.
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil

Mix all ingredient's from Tuna Salad Sandwich above except lettuce.
Prepare lettuce and lay onto a platter or flat salad bowl. Top with tuna salad mixture by spoon mixture over lettuce leaves.  Garnish with olives, tomatoes and hard boiled eggs. Drizzle with Olive Oil and enjoy!

*Fresh herbs are always better. See my blog on planting and maintaining a Potager's Garden 

I just wanted to say thank you for the wonderful job that you do! I have placed several orders over the years and you've always exceeded my expectations. My most memorable order was a Christmas centerpiece that I ordered for my mother a few years ago. Your staff attempted to deliver it on Christmas eve. but my mother was not at home. When she returned later that day she found the note that was left by your staff. She was very distressed about missing the delivery so she called and asked if it could be re-delivered.

Your staff made a very kind decision and returned that evening with the flowers! What your staff didn't know was that my mother was a very ill woman who was facing a long term stay in the hospital. In addition to that she was going to be, for the most part, alone for Christmas day. I was astonished when she told me what your staff had done to bless her Christmas season. I will never forget the kindness demonstrated by the Rose of Sharon.

God bless, Rhonda
December 2007
//Archives/Miscellaneous/Scrapbook/2007_105

I'm writing this to thank you for your great customer service! I recently talked to someone there at your shop about my flowers dying. You told me to bring them in for a replacement but I felt no need to do that. I don't like to be the one who complains and I had just called for "tips" or "old wives tales" that might help perk up my flowers. You sent out a replacement arrangement without me asking! That was super sweet! I did not expect it and it was a great surprise! Thank you!!

I will be going to you guys for my flower needs and will be recommending you to anyone who needs flowers!! You guys are great! I went to your web site and found in your blog that you enjoy a good scone, so that being said, I'm enclosing my favorite recipe for scones that has been handed down to me from my great aunt. Enjoy it! And again, thanks! You have made my birthday even better.

Marisa
January 2008
//Archives/Miscellaneous/Scrapbook/2008_020

Basic Scones

1# All Purpose Flour
1/2 teaspoon Salt
3/4 Cup Butter
6 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/4 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Add 1/2 cup of any two of the following as desired; Dried cranberries, raisins, dates, figs, prunes, apricots, walnuts, pecans or pistachios to equal a 1 cup addition.

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees fahrenheit. Sift the flour, salt, cinnamon and baking powder together into a bowl. Cut the butter into pieces and rub into flour mixture with the tips of your fingers as quickly as you can. Add milk and mix lightly into spongy dough. If adding dried fruit or nuts then add at this point. Knead very lightly to make the dough smooth, and roll out 3/4" thick. Cut out scones with a 2"  biscuit cutter, and let stand 10 minutes. Brush with  a well-beaten egg or whole milk before placing onto a greased or parchment lined baking sheet. I like to top the scones with coarse sugar. Bake in the middle of the oven for 10 minutes, then let cool and enjoy! This recipe makes quite a few scones, you can freeze 1/2 the dough to bake later or bake all and freeze.

Religious Customs

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the Mormons

Mormon funeral services can be conducted in the mortuary or local stake. Services are usually simple. Flowers are permitted. 

• Tributes of various types are encouraged, and flowers on the casket are permissible.
• Funerals not permitted inside the temple.
• Flowers arranged a cross or crucifix are not permitted.
• Generally speaking most seasonal flowers are acceptable.

Buddhist

Flowers, fruit, candles, incense can be st on an altar in front of the casket along with the decease d's portrait. Friend and family may place small pieces of paper, symbolizing a monetary gift for use in the afterlife, in the casket. Flowers are suitable expressions of sympathy.

• Red flowers are not appropriate.
• Food is not appropriate
• White flowers symbolize mourning

Roman Catholic

The viewing, visitation or wake is conducted at the mortuary or funeral home, usually in a slumber room but sometimes in the chapel. The viewing takes place up until the time of the Rosary which is conducted in the chapel. Mass will follow in the morning at the church parish. The Mass is often followed by a committal service at the cemetery.  Cremation, prohibited prior to 1963, is an option but is usually conducted after Mass. Flowers are appropriate expressions of sympathy and are usually sent to arrive for the family visitation prior to the public visitation.

• Parishes vary regarding use of casket sprays.
• Most churches allow flowers to be displayed at the church entrance for funerals.
• Some churches do not allow any floral pieces other than family pieces.
• Often there are placement restrictions.
• Some parishes require that flowers placed on the altar be left and not removed to the internment services.
• Flowers permitted at the Visitation or Rosary.
• Flowers allowed at funerals during Lent.

Jewish

• No flowers used at Orthodox funerals.
• Flowers starting to be acceptable at non-orthodox services.
• During Shiv ah, fruit and food baskets are generally sent and welcomed.

Protestant Christian

Baptist -

Abundant use of flowers and sprays of all types. Can vary depending upon region.

Christian, Other

Flowers are usually welcomed in most funeral celebrations and memorials. Generally speaking the individual church or parish may have limitations on placement based more upon decor than religious conviction. Flowers are generally welcome and tributes of all types are acceptable.

Presbyterian -

Generally, seasonal flowers; typically follow other U.S. Protestant traditions.

• There may be placement restrictions.
• Casket pall may be an option.

Ethnic Customs

Hispanic

Nearly 75% of Hispanics identify themselves as Catholic so generally speaking customs of the Catholic faith apply. There are various regional and ethic customs that have been adopted that are not universally celebrated. Hispanics are family oriented and often spend much time at the funeral home visitation and remain at the grave for the lowering of the deceased and closing of the grave. Often times, families will also be found at the cemetery for days following the services both celebrating and mourning the deceased life. 

African-American

A wake is often a part of African-American funeral customs. In the US African-Americans are often centered around a church family and so the customs of the religion are prevalent.

• The predominate religions of African-Americans is Christian and Islam.
• Services celebrating the "home going" to Jesus is often celebrated.

Chinese

After the visitation, family and friends will place money or symbols of money into the casket as a gift for the afterlife. This is also a Buddhist tradition.

• White is a color of mourning.
• Red is a color of happiness and should not be used.
• Predominate religions are Taoism, Islam, Catholicism and Protestantism.

Japanese

Cremation is typically practiced with the Japanese and so most services are memorials where the cremains are present.

• Red flowers are not appropriate.
• Food is not appropriate.
• Roses are not generally used.
• White flowers symbolize mourning.

Korean

Korean services usually consist of viewing or visitation, prayers and songs the evening before the service. Flowers are a welcome part of Korean services.

• Predominate religions are Buddhism and Christianity.
• Ribbons containing Korean messages often adorn floral bouquets and plants.

Changing My Plan

Today was a perfect Summer Day and we enjoyed last week's labor, my Apricot Syrup over some hotcakes I made on the patio griddle. The morning was calm and warm and a wonderful morning prelude to an afternoon movie.

After the movie, I thought it would be nice to put my apples to good use and make Sterling's favorite pie. It was a perfect, small, afternoon project that I enjoyed completing with Mia and Sterling. Mia made our favorite pie crust, a recipe we have used for 25 years that my Grandma gave to me. Sterling peeled and cored the fruit and I rolled out the crust and seasoned the fillings. It was such fun and no sacrifice at all to skip the apple butter.

This really was a perfect day. I spent the day with my family, completing a small project and enjoying their company. I thought about Mia's grandma who shared so much of her gardening expertise with me over the years. I thought about my grandma who shared each of her recipe's when I was a young cook and I thought of her mother, my beloved Great-Grandma who loved apple pie with a slice of cheddar cheese and onion. As I reached for my grandma's paring knife, to dot my pies with butter, I thought of the legacy left to me by wonderful cooks and gardeners who shared their love of home and family with me through the years.

For me, the company I keep is always more important than the food I make and pie is not one of my favorite foods. Maybe it was just the atmosphere of the day but this was a Perfect Apple Pie and I enjoyed every bite. Light, flaky crust perfectly browned and encasing plumb, juicy, tart apples seasoned with butter, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves and sweetened with just the right amount of sugar. For me, as much as I miss my Great-Grandma I'll skip the onions.

Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas) are a good source protein and an excellent source of dietary fiber and are low in fat. Because of the high fiber content they make an excellent source of carbohydrates, especially for persons with insulin sensitivity or diabetes. Of course you should consult your medical pratitioner for health related issues. 

If you have never tried Hummus, consider it! Hummus is a wonderful appetizer or light meal, is good for you and easy to make.

Spinach Salad

4 Cups Washed Spinach Leaves
1/2 Small Red Onion, thinly sliced
2 Tablespoons Cooked Bacon (reserved from dressing below)
2 Roasted Red Peppers, thinly sliced (Type in the jar is fine, I rarely roast my own)
3 Eggs, hard boiled.
1/4 Cup crumbled Feta Cheese.

Place washed spinach leaves in a large, flat, bowl, and mound up a bit. Arrange sliced onions along the edge of the bowl, somewhat "framing" the spinach. Now layer on the thinly sliced peppers. Create a pleasing looking plate as you place each ingredient. Sprinkle the Feta Cheese on the spinach leaves, followed by the bacon bits. Slice the hard boiled eggs in half and place the six halves in a circle in the middle of the salad. You should now have a wonderful, star burst of a salad with lots of color and texture. When you are ready to serve, pour the dressing over the entire salad and eat at once. (If the dressing is cold, place in microwave for about 30 seconds to warm. You want it warm NOT HOT)

Strawberry Vinaigrette

2 Strips bacon
1/3 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
1/3 Cup Honey
2 Tablespoons Strawberry Jam
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
1/2 Teaspoon Dry Oregano Leaves (Crushed)
1/2 Teaspoon Dry Red Pepper Flakes (Like the ones used in pizza restaurants)
1/4 Teaspoon freshly ground Black Pepper
Salt if you need it, to taste; but do taste first, this has a lot of flavor.

Finely chop bacon and cook over a medium heat until it is crisp, remove from heat and remove bacon from the pan reserving the drippings in the pan. Return the pan to the burner and add the vinegar, honey and jam, olive oil and spices and simmer on low for about ten minutes or until the vinaigrette is thickened and the consistency of light syrup. Cool to warm and pour over salad. 

Serve salad with crusty bread and a glass of pinot noir. I am repeatedly asked for this recipe as everyone loves it and I gladly share.

Let me know if you try the recipe and what you think.

¡Buen provecho! 

When I was a kid there were always plenty of red geraniums around, it seems every garden on our block had an abundant planting of them. I readily admit I have not really had the highest regard for geraniums and I suppose that it was because they were so common in my youth.

As I grew older, I started to see other colors of geraniums and thought I should take a second look at these prolific bloomers.

What is commonly called Geranium is a genus of about 200 species of plants from the family Geraniaceae and genus Pelargonium. About 20 of the genus have then been cultivated to thousands of what are called cultivars. Confusingly Geraniaceae Geranium does not contain what is commonly know as Geranium but they got their name when they were formerly classified in that species. So, what are commonly grown today in our coastal gardens are Geraniaceae Pelargonium of which there are thousands of cultivars (not all growing in Santa Maria).

Pelargoniums are native to South Africa and began their migration throughout the world in the 1600's as cargo ships stopped at the Cape of Good Hope and loaded supplies to continue their journeys. Today, this very popular genus of blooming plants has acclimated and thrives throughout much of the world.

We are very accustomed in Santa Maria Gardens to Pelargonium x zonale which is the glossy leafed variety shown above but there are other varieties which are equally beauty and some important for their fragrance. P. graveolens is a variety of fragrant leafed plants which has the scent of citrus or oranges and which is cultivated for it's importance in perfume production.

Pelargoniums may be planted from seed or stem cutting (in the fall) and grown in containers or planted in the garden. In either planting they should receive 6-8 hours of sun per day. Water thoroughly in the mornings and feed regularly with a 10-10-10 fertilizer. Pelargoniums like a slightly acid soil (6.5ph). While these are ideal condition this very forgiving genus of plants will grow in nearly any soil type and condition but will not tolerate being waterlogged.

To keep flower production at a maximum make certain to feed regularly and "dead head" the dying blossoms. Cut plant back in the late fall.

Pelargoniums will root very easily from stem cuttings. Take cuttings in September from healthy plants. Use a clean, sharp knife and make a cutting 3 to 4 inches in length from the growing tips. Trim off the lower leaves from the cutting, and place into a coarse, sandy medium in a small pots or mud flats, and water well. Place them in indirect light. Do not allow the cuttings to dry out. After roots are formed, move the new plants into full sun and water only enough to keep them from shriveling. Fertilize with a weak solution of liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Transplant into the garden in early spring.

Pelargoniums are not sold as cut flowers however p. zonale varieties do cut very well.

I am so glad that I am willing to reconsider flowers that I was not particularly fond of. Pelargoniums are tireless workers in the garden and provide abundant blooms in our back yard. The bright colors attract hummingbirds and bees, both of which I want in our garden. Give Pelargoniums a try, they are easy to grow, very affordable and will lavish your yard with blooms.

While we enter yet another round of tiresome presidential elections, with the requisite rhetoric, untruths, flip flops and outright lies from the right, left and in-between; intolerance from Atheist, Agnostics and the Religious; mobilization of Women, Youth, Christians, Blacks, Hispanics, Asians and Muslims in efforts to turn the tide of American Politics. It is all very monotonous and exasperating, to say the least.

Yet another year of war, some say is ordained of God, and others say was illegal from the start. Today, over 3000 of our young people are dead, many more thousands of body parts have been lost in a country, not our own, to overcome a terror, not ours alone. While our congress argues whether to continue funding of one war, there are rumors of yet another war in another land. Americans stand on both sides of the political fence, some believing we are great because of our power and others believing we are bullies out of control.

The ongoing arguments about whether homosexuals should marry, women be in the clergy or be president, the speculation of a black president, ongoing dilemma of abortion, rights of women, rights of the unborn, stem cell research, war, immigration, national health care, border control, social security and a myriad other issues continue to be at the forefront of our daily news.

How great our nation! We have the consummate freedom to choose, to fight over issues, to argue about a war, to vote our conscience, to be a Christian, a Muslim, a Jew or have no faith at all.  We have the right to express our opinions, share in ideas popular or un-popular and to work to an end with enduring freedoms; which continues to be a beacon for millions of immigrants every year.

Certainly, America has it's problems. We, however, enjoy a freedom that is uniquely American, uniquely Independent and Sovereign.  Do we make mistakes? Absolutely! In our short history, America is not without blemish. Slavery, oppression of women, racism, exploitation of children and abuse by clergy and government, each horrific, but in the end, I believe Americans, including those 35-million foreign born living within these United States will, with God's Grace, continue to be a benevolent, free people. 

Each year, around the first of July, as I prepare for my Fourth of July Party, I like to read the Declaration of Independence to remind myself what I celebrate.  As I live in a free United States, much of the indictment of King George III, the bulk of the document is not readily compelling for me; each year, however, my focus is once again on the preamble and the last few lines of the conclusion.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed, by their Creator, with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security...

... and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

Today, I hope you are blessed with family and friends, that you have a sense that you are loved by both, and your Creator. That you have a hope in the things that make America strong and detest the things which make it weak. I am celebrating a Free United States of America, a free nation of men, women, blacks, whites, Hispanics and Asians, a free nation of liberals and conservatives, homosexuals, heterosexuals, Christians, Muslims and Jews. I am celebrating the freedom to embrace those different than myself. I am celebrating that I have the privilege to be an American.

Have a Happy and Safe Fourth of July.

Whether sending flowers across the country or around the corner, we are experienced experts. We have staged corporate events for hundreds of guests, involving thousands of dollars in decor and centerpiece flowers both locally and across the country. We will provide you the convenience, experience and service you need.

I have been fascinated with color since I first read an article on the subject when we went into business twenty-five years ago. In that study, geared to retail sales, the focus of the article was on the effect of color on the customer or client mindset within various industries. The bottom line for florist was to use green and stay away from brown. Green imparted the notion of freshness, where brown produced the opposite in the customer's mind. this extensive article covered many industries and once presented it all made sense. Blue was not a great color for restaurants as it was nauseating with food. 

When the Society of American Florists created the Flower Therapy theory it was an easy concept for me and one I readily endorse. I regularly find myself suggesting to customers a bouquet from the Nurturing Palette when someone is emotionally hurting or a bouquet from the Whimsical Palette when a celebration is in order. The colors and styles work and are a great way to touch someone's life.

Below is an overview of the five floral palettes and the messages they convey. Using the proper color combinations is a clever way to change someone's mood or at least alter the environment around them.

The Nurturing Floral Palette

A true sense of caring is created by a combination of colors that are fragile, soft and tender. Arrangements in pastel shades and the softest yellows, peaches, warm pinks, creamy whites and subtle greens make us feel safe, snug and loved. Consider a nurturing floral arrangement for a new mother, a sick friend or a grieving loved one - anyone who would benefit from a caring, loving embrace.

Shop from the Nurturing Palette

The Romantic Floral Palette

A sensation of intimacy, nostalgia and comfort is captured in this color palette, a blend of delicate warm and cool colors with lavenders and pinks at its heart. Romantic arrangements express loving sentiments and admiration to mothers, sisters, grandmothers, aunts, best friends, significant others and brides-to-be.

Shop from the Romantic Palette

The Sensuous Floral Palette

The rich, luxurious color combinations of the sensuous palette set the mood for sophisticated, passionate and even seductive settings. Robust reds and purples, hot pinks and spicy oranges are at the soul of this dynamic floral feeling. Consider a sensuous arrangement for a very special evening or an elegant dinner party - anywhere you want to feel magnetic and extravagant.

Shop from the Sensuous Palette

The Tranquil Floral Palette

Serenity and relaxation are the essence of this color scheme. Its peaceful palette, reminiscent of sky and sea, is dominated by clear, light shades of green, misty blues and other cool hues. A vase of tranquility is perfect for busy moms, harried professionals and those who seek a moment of calm from life's stressful situations. When considering the Tranquil Palette think of things in nature. This palette consist of colors that are found in the garden, the woods, the beach or seaside and so forth.

Shop from the Tranquil Palette

The Whimsical Floral Palette

Fun-loving, free-spirited, playful feelings are conveyed by the whimsical palette, which is characterized by bold, contrasting colors. Floral arrangements featuring these hues set an upbeat tone and are ideal for birthdays, graduations, promotions and other celebrations

 Shop from the Whimsical Palette

Sometimes, I must admit, I don't really notice flowers. I am blessed to be a florist and have an abundant selection of flowers around me every day. Every few days my lovely wife Mia brings a bouquet into my office for the corner of my desk. Today, there is a vase of short stemmed roses in a cobalt blue vase. Sometimes there are orchids, sometimes carnations. Almost always, it is a single variety of flower arranged in a mass style arrangement, without a secondary flower, such as Martha Stewart made popular and which I have a preference for.  Rarely are there mixtures of flowers as that is not the type of bouquet I prefer and my wife is good to me.  Sadly, while I enjoy flowers and always have plenty of them in my home and office I sometimes fail to notice them individually.

Recently, Mia planted an area at the back of our lot with a variety of flowers of which one was Cosmo bipinnatus. My son, Sterling, took a few pictures of the flowers when they started blooming. Wow! I really fell in love with these gorgeous flowers.  Cosmos are in the Aster Family and related to Sunflowers as are Artichokes, Zinnias and Coreopsis, and grow as annuals or on the Central Coast as perennials. 

Bright, intricate and easy to grow, Cosmos are native to Mexico and grow throughout the southern United States. Some have been naturalized to Santa Barbara County and grow wild.

Cosmos cut well and will provide 7 to 10 days of enjoyment as a cut flower.

Propagation: Cosmos are grown from large seeds which germinate quickly. Cosmos normally grow to five feet in a season. Sow directly into the garden in early Spring or start seedings earlier indoors. Space plants 12 inches apart.

How to Grow: Cosmos prefer full sun and will tolerate partial shade. They will do well in both average and poor soils. They are drought tolerant. Do not over water to avoid mildew. Taller plants may require staking.

Insect and Disease: Not known.

Romance and Flowers, from a Woman's Perspective

The Society of American Florists, of which we are members, provides a variety of services to florists and horticulatural companies. In their effort to create a positive awareness of flowers and plants they create surveys and commsion university studies to better understand the needs and desires of the consumers. Recently, SAF conducted a  national survey of women on their attitudes toward romance, which will provide the saavy man help on  the best ways to be romantic. According to the survey, flowers are an easy and effective way to be romantic. Key findings:

To add romance to their lives, women want their men to:

• 41%: Give or send her flowers unexpectedly
• 32%: Cook dinner for the two of you
• 10%: Write her a love song or poem
• 8%: Watch a romantic movie together
• 2%: Feed her grapes

Favorite times women enjoy receiving flowers:

• 74%: No special reason at all
• 15%: On a dating or marriage anniversary
• 4%: Before an evening out to say “I can't wait”
• 2%: After an evening out to say “thank you”

Additional Survey Highlights

• 91% of both men and women (they agree exactly) say that romance is important to a relationship.
• 82% of women said they could be romanced by a man who is less than perfect.

Start with a few changes

Start your summer by making a few positive changes to enhance your life. If you do one or two things to reduce your workload or create a more powerful, positive environment you are well on your way to enjoying a fuller life. We live in one of the most wonderful places you can live in this great state. With our moderate Mediterranean, coastal climate you are on your way to enjoying the great outdoors. Below are a few, affordable things you can do to make positive changes to embrace life and live a bit easier. Don't fall victim to trying to do too much, just one or two easy changes will make a difference and "prime the pump".

• Buy or pick flowers and bring them into the home.
• Plant something. You don't have to do a complete garden, just a few plants will perk up your garden.
• Plant a small vegetable garden. No, it's not too late, I just planted some squash, cucumbers and a new herb garden today and will begin to enjoy the crop in mid August. I will can pickles mid September.
• Plant a tree.
• Make a donation to a charity.
• Take a country drive.
• Try a new restaurant.
• Try a new food, something you don't think you like. Keep an open mind and try it.
• Cut back on fast food and junk food and add nutritious snacks to your menu.
• Lighten up on meal preparation in favor of noshing on healthier foods like hummus and pita, olives, vegetables, nuts, peppers and salads.
• Bake cookies. Even if you are not good at it, bake some cookies. Find an easy recipe and indulge. Use butter, lots of chocolate chips and nuts and enjoy. (Need a recipe, just ask, I have thousands and will happy find or write one for you.)
• Invite people into your life.
• Have a glass of wine. Don't drink the wine, enjoy the wine. Swirl it in the glass, sip and hold in your mouth, swallow and draw air across your tongue. Enjoy every drop.
• Stop and buy your favorite candy and have a piece. (A piece won't hurt)
• Turn off the TV.
• Read a book.
• Sit and relax in the garden or on the patio.
• Take a walk.
• Buy a bird feeder and watch your new friends. This is also an excellent way to control insects.
• Go to the beach. If you aren't into laying out on the beach go to Avila and sit on the promenade and watch people.
• Learn to embrace the differences in people rather than how they might annoy you.
• Practice Kindness. The range of possibilities are endless! Kindness is the act or the state of charitable behavior to other people and it doesn't have to be merited or only to those you love. Show kindness to the waitress who forgot your water, the driver who cut you off or the paper boy who threw your paper in the bushes. You'll feel better.
• Already do these things, great! Do something different, the point is to make a small, positive, change in your life and live a little. Need more ideas, I have them and will be happy to share.

Alstroemeria is named after the Swedish botanist Baron Klas von Alstroemer. This South American flower's seeds were among many collected by von Alstroemer on a trip to Spain in 1753. Get to know these wonderful flowers and you will find a great workhorse that is easy on the budget.

Alstromeria are in the Amaryllidaceae family and are related to the onion, daffodil, agapanthus and nerine. There are hundreds of A. alstromeria, which are commonly called alstromeria or Peruvian Lily. Readily available in ample supply year-round, alstroemerias come in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, yellow, salmon, red, lavender, orange, bronze and bicolors.

If purchased fresh alstromeria will give you 6-14 days vase life, depending upon the cultivar and at home care. Avoid buying flowers with yellowing or transparent leaves; these are signs of ethylene damage and age.

Alstromeria are very versatile flowers which are gaining in popularity as feature flowers and are often used as mass flowers. A simple, do it yourelf, arrangement of a dozen or so stems of alstromeria cut at the same length and placed in a clear glass vase will have a stunning, yet homey feel.

Alstromeria are easy to cultivate on the coast and grow well in full sun in loamy soil.