Nothing says “Welcome to my home” like flowers, and today I planted the first pot. I don’t have a bed or clothes or a spoon, but I have flowers!
The other day, I was walking down the street and introduced myself to a neighbor who was outside. After talking for awhile he invited me to his house the next night for a dinner with other neighbors. That’s the third party invitation in someone’s home that I have received. He is a gourmet cook. He made gazpacho in parfait glasses, beet and goat cheese on herbed toast, and paella, accompanied by sangria and lots of wine and cheese. My next-door neighbor is a baker and he brought cupcakes. I don’t know how I am going to reciprocate because my recipes are based 
on how few pans I can use.
I still feel strange. Everything is new…the pace, the tone, the weather, the bugs. My things arrive tomorrow, and my daughter comes tomorrow night. What good timing! Maybe I’ll feel more settled after we unpack.
Hi Ellie!!!!
Thinking of you in your new home! I am very happy spending time with old friends and Dad. He has been here 2 weeks and it’s been a pleasure to have him. He leaves tomorrow.
The Tuscan Workshop went well. I got a commission for a painting!! Wow! Very excited!
I send you lots of love and enjoy reading your blog.
Xxxxxx carol
PS neither of us is missing anything in NY.
And the Energizer Ellie just keeps going and going and going. . . .
I loved reading about your wonderful dinner invitation. It sounds exotic and authentic at the same time. I send you lots of creative greetings from Southampton right now, where I DID go to the beach.