A Pleasant Surprise

Aren't these Peonies gorgeous?  Not only they looked great, they also made my whole living room smelled wonderful too.  The smooth and velvety petals were soft to the touch, like baby's skin.  Every time I walked into the living room, the  elegant, sweet floral aroma simply filled the air.  I couldn't helped it but took deep breaths and inhale the sweet scents. 

Mind you, I haven’t receive flowers for many years.  So, let me dream a little and admire these pretty buds for the time they last in my vases.  It’s kind of a “silent agreement” between my hubby and I that I don’t want him to buy me flowers, even on special occasions.  I rather receive something edible, or more practical.  I know, I think I’m a very unromantic person. hahaha….But I guess that’s the case when you earned the title of “Mommy”.  I rather save the money for kids’ college.  So, where did these gorgeous Peonies came from?  Of course, they were from my sweet Mother-In-Law’s garden.   It was a pleasant surprise from her.     

Update:  Many of you corrected me in the comment that these flowers are actually Gardenia, and not Peonies.  Hehe...this once again proof how little I know about flowers and gardening.  Thank you so much you all for the information.  

She was on her way to my area the other day.  So, she called to meet up after I picked up the kids from school so we can all enjoy an afternoon tea together.  And she made this very special delivery for me.  That’s so sweet of her.  Of course, she knows me so well and include something edible, too. 



These prunes are straight from my In-Law’s garden too.  I got this huge basket filled with these sweet little gems.  So good!  I’ll make some pastry with them and share the recipe, that is, if we don’t finish them before that happens.

I also got a basket full of tangerines.  So sweet and lovely.  These will be all gone before I have a chance to “transform” them.  But that’s okay, they are super good as the way they are.



Last but not least, I got the very last crop of Loquat (枇杷).  These are the fruit I grew up eating.  They have a thin, hairy skin (that you remove before consuming), the flesh is also orange in color, very tender, sweet, juicy and has a hint of floral tone.  The seeds are brown color and quite big.  My kids don’t care too much about these loquat (just yet).  But I’m so happy I got to enjoy them.    So, thank you again for all the goodies.  I sure did enjoyed them a lot.