More autumn gorgeousness

Is there such a word as gorgeousness?  There should be.

 Fallen leaves, before they were walked into mush.

 Lovely red leaves.

Golden leaves.  I love taking pictures of fallen autumn leaves before they turn wet and slimy - the mix of colours is so pretty.  These were all taken at the open garden we attended a few weeks ago.

The current project on the sewing machine is a fiddly diddly applique owl block which will end up in a charity quilt.  It is very cutesy-poo.  I don't do cutesy-poo.  Fortunately it is nearly finished, just the coloured framing strips remain to be done.  It will be handed over at next month's quilt group meeting with a huge sigh of relief.  Hopefully whoever provides the block of the month in June doesn't go in for cutesy-poo applique, but I wouldn't bet on it.  When it's my turn they get a pieced block, with triangles.

Ah well.  The world would be a dull place if we all felt the same, wouldn't it?

Last week the newish car and I made each other's acquaintance, and so far the relationship is proceeding well.  I drive it to uke group on Tuesday evening and home again, and to choir on Thursday night and home again, and I am getting used to the controls being on the other sides because it is European.  Occasionally I turn on the windscreen washers instead of the indicators (probably much to the amusement of other drivers) but that is happening less and less.  So long as my right hand does most of the work and my left hand stays low, all is well......my shoulder is pretty much over its operation but still doesn't like sudden movements.  Any little twinges can probably now be put down to the fact that autumn is here, the weather is cooler, and things hurt more when it's cold.

Last Friday evening we had a lovely dinner at a (the) local French restaurant, and it was worth every penny.  It isn't the amount you pay, but the value you get for what you pay, isn't it?  The restaurant isn't open every night which is why we haven't been for a couple of years, as our 'occasions' - birthdays, anniversary - have been happening on their closed nights.  I had salmon and it was really yummy, Kevin had steak, and of course we had dessert, raspberry roulade for me and strawberry cream cake for him.

Another nine months until the next birthday in our household.......I'll be hanging out for that, you know.  I always enjoy a meal I haven't had to cook.  Not that I mind cooking, but as one has been cooking nearly every night for well over 40 years - the novelty of cooking wore off a very very long time ago.

"The table appointments.
A snow-white cloth of the finest damask, beautiful china, glistening or finely-engraved glass, and polished plate are considered essential to a grand dinner.  Choice flowers, ferns and mosses tastefully arranged, add much to the beauty of the table.  A salt-cellar should be within the reach of every guest.  Napkins should be folded square and placed with a roll of bread upon each plate.  The dessert is placed on the table amidst the flowers.  An epergne, or a low dish of flowers, graces the centre ; stands of bon-bons and confectionery are ranged on both sides of the table, which completes the decorations of the table.  The name of each guest, written upon a card and placed one on each plate, marks the seat assigned."

Does that sound like dinner at your house?  Because it certainly doesn't sound like mine.......

Enjoy your days!