{pretty, happy, funny, real} Nightingale Thursday edition

~ Capturing the context of contentment in everyday life ~

{pretty}

I had this arrangement at a recent fundraiser I hosted at home.  It was too gorgeous, but those lovely peonies just don't last long in our hot weather.  I have been pulling out the tired blooms and subbing in hydrangeas from the yard to make it last a bit longer!  White peonies, white hydrangea, coral roses, thistle, blooming curly willow, and eucalyptus.  And that urn is from Hobby Lobby, years ago. 

{happy}

I attempted to recreate a gorgeous photo I saw in Bon Appetit's Summer Cooking Manifesto last month.  Mine is much messier and less composed, but it was so delicious.  What made me happy about this dish is what would probably drive some so crazy: I loved trying to cut everything into psued-uniform sizes, and laying it out in the dish.  I miss having the time that I used to have to really devote to something in the kitchen; with a little one underfoot my goal is usually speed over execution/presentation.  I used watermelon, yellow & red tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, mozzarella cheese, toasted bread cubes, and made a dressing from lime juice, jalepeno, basil, mint and olive oil.  This would be equally tasted just tossed in a bowl and dressed.

{funny}

This is my child with his clothing hamper on his head.  Plus some yellow sunglasses his grandmother brought him.  I love the mind of a child!

{real}

I am part of a new group in town called the Nightingale Network.  We've been raising funds in the month of June to make the very first grant our local Women's Fund has ever made in our city, and tonight is the celebration event where the winner will be announced!  Three agencies are vying for the grant: a new community garden/farmers' market in a "food dessert" area of town; a life planning course for women who are single-wage earners in their household; and a Mom's Club program for uneducated expectant mothers.  All three are amazing choices and I'm so proud to be a part of this movement.