Fingers Crossed

Walk-through ready

Last Wednesday I was awakened from my post-work train nap by a phone call. Identifying herself as a representative from the Riverside Flower Show and Garden Tours, the caller wanted to know if she and another member could stop by to assess the Rancho for possible inclusion on next year’s tour … and was 10am too early? Replying yes to stopping by, and no to 10am being too early, I immediately went into high-alert mode … there was a lot to do!

Realizing I would only have very limited time post-work until the visit, I began to prioritize a mental check list of tasks that would need to be accomplished. Thankfully, Paul had a pretty open schedule the rest of the week, so he got some of the duties … other tasks I had to do myself (being a complete control freak). The week finished in a blur but we got lots on the list done! This morning, Saturday, I got up at first light for the final pruning, clipping, raking and arranging, finishing well ahead of the Flower Show rep’s arrival. And, the visit went very well! Both reps were affable women and they really “got” my landscaping intentions, obviously enjoying what we’ve put together. They cautioned that it might be a couple months until they called with their decision, but I have a good feeling we’ll be in. If so, next Spring, we’ll have lots of people coming through the Rancho, taking it all in. I wonder what it’ll look like then, since things are always changing around here.

Same stuff, new look

Here’s a look at the yellow-L seating area I put together yesterday, looks cocktail-ready, right? If we get on the tour we’ll have champagne there; of course, I’ll keep you posted!