Summer arrived in Salem in a big way this past weekend with several days of 90+ degree heat; it felt more like early August than June. This is a bit of an aberration, and we should be back in the 70s this week (it’s raining this morning). I braved the heat and went out into the garden, armed with a quart of “half-and-half”, half lemonade, half unsweetened strong black iced tea–my second favorite summer drink (after gin & tonics). On Sunday I was able to have a few of my VERY favorite summer drinks out in the garden of the Salem Athenaeum, at the annual garden party. This event is timed to coincide with the blooming of the massive multicolored rhododendrons in the garden, and I think the timing was perfect this year.
At home the lady’s slippers have arrived and the catmint is in full bloom, beckoning Moneypenny. On a less happy note, someone stole my three large planters–filled to the brim with hydrangeas and Memorial Day flags!!!!–as well as my neighbors’ in the middle of the night. Not a tragedy obviously, but sad that someone would do this.
Path leading into the garden of the Salem Athenaeum, lined by huge rhododendrons, which frame a beautiful 18th century house next door. Another beautiful house, on Chestnut Street, with the street’s only surviving Elm tree in front. I’m on a quest to find all the elms I can this summer, so if you know of a particularly majestic one in eastern New England, please let me know!
June 3rd, 2013 at 6:33 am
Looks like a perfect day! We have had a few 90+ days in NY – I think I’ll stay with my Strawberry Daiquri’s! Beautiful pictures!
June 3rd, 2013 at 6:57 am
Strawberry daiquiris are pretty special too.
June 3rd, 2013 at 7:44 am
Beautiful photos. I just love it when everything is in bloom. So sorry about your planters…that stinks.
June 3rd, 2013 at 7:48 am
Thanks Rebecca–look forward to meeting you at school one of these days! I always enjoy checking in with your blog.
June 3rd, 2013 at 8:22 am
Looks like an 1800’s party!
June 8th, 2013 at 10:43 am
….again magnificent pics…..what are the yellow flowers? Is that the rhododendron? Pardon my ignorance.
June 8th, 2013 at 11:29 am
No problem, those are my beloved lady’s slippers.