Norbie to Martha: "You love me, you really love me!!"

I got a very surprising note from Martha after posting a question to her fabulous blog.

Norbie to Martha:
Might be such an inappropriate and probing question but what happen to your previous Gardener? I read blogs - I got a curious mind. LOL
Posted by: Norbie K. Las Vegas April 17th, 2009 at 10:40 am

Martha to Norbie (I'm gushing!!):
Hi Norbie, To answer your question about Jodi, my former gardener - She has moved to Maine and is expecting a baby.
Posted by: Martha Stewart April 17th, 2009 at 1:14 pm

In Loving Memory

I often wonder if you’re here,
all these years, drawn close and so near.

At times I can hear you whisper,
a chuckle, a sigh … oh so dapper.

Dad I do hope you found your peace,
your sense of solace, a life of ease.

We’ll forever remain as one.
Though lives would cease, anew began.

Memories will not be forsaken.
Dad, you'll never be forgotten.

My Texas Ebony trees are blooming crazy!

It’s been very humid in the last few days – unbearable especially when the day struggles to make it at 102-104F. It reminds me of all those years growing up in the Philippines where its humid all year round. Everyone carried baby powder and showered 2-3x a day as a way of life.

My Texas Ebony trees on the other hand are enjoying this new found source of moisture. Billows of white fuzzy blooms sprouted almost instantly giving its dark green hue a fight for its glory. Delicately scented which seems to attract a lot of bees.

Normally I would be so concerned about keeping insects away by taking radical measures such as smoking the branches out but I’m glad I’m doing my part in keeping bees happy.

This prickly mesquite like tree is also known as Pithecellobium Flexicaule (refers to its sweet bean pulp and flexuous branches) typically bloom in late spring and through much of the summer.

Because of its small leaves, this tree is perfect for places that reach high temperatures. It also thrives perfectly in highly dense clay soil which are pretty much a staple here in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Havana Nights

Our master bedroom is a reflection of how our personalities are greatly in contrast yet it seems to all work together in the end. Just like what most people would say about having a successful relationship is that both should have the ability to make compromises.

I recount moments when we really felt enormous amount of tension once our differences were laid out on the table – warrant this was only when we went furniture shopping. He loves cherry finishes with heavy wood grains, contemporary art and mission style furniture while I on the other hand prefer European to Colonial finishes, a touch of gold opulence, quilts and damasks.

So instead of duking it out, Nick and I met halfway in decorating the master bedroom. We were uncertain how it would all look like in the end but all I can say is we both enjoy the space.

Though we have learned the very essence of being in a "relationship" I am still calling dibs on the den downstairs. Think Restoration Hardware meets Pottery Barn! After all he already took charge of the office.