Summer Flower Arrangement from Red Earth Farm at West Chester Growers Market

This flower arrangement includes a great collection of sunflowers, ageratum, ameranth, zinnia, gladiolus and celosia.   There were several to choose from and each had its own special look.  The main web page for the farm is here, with a link to the page describing the flowers they offer at different times of the spring and summer.  Special occasion arrangements include flowers for weddings, including: bride’s bouquets, bridesmaid bouquets, table arrangements, altar bouquets and cake toppers.  Flowers are grown in season without chemicals!

Had a great dinner with neighbors at Cafe Fiorello’s in West Chester.  We were entertained by Rich DeSimone who performed a collection of Frank Sinatra classic.   Looking around, Rich makes his audiences feel that they are in the presence of FRANK by maintaining the attitude and style so familiar to Sinatra fans. DeSimone follows Sinatra’s passion for detail – like wearing his classic shawl collar tuxedo, imitating hand gestures and Sinatra attitude, and performing close to 200 classic hits  in Franks voice style .

Rich performs at events of various size.   For booking information visit Rich Desimone at: www.croonerrich.com

A year ago …

“It’s a scorching summer day.  Not a wisp of cloud to offer even a brief respite from the sun.  Approaching the hotel, all the groomsmen surround the groom, shaded by a wide entry area.  Guests arrive in colorful summer attire and decoration.  Anyone not sporting at least one tattoo is in the minority. Anticipation can be seen in the slant of shoulders, quick looks toward the new arrivals, hands placed in pockets then removed having found nothing new. Finally, “There he is!”  The minster has arrived.  A brisk entrance just as the second hand threatens a late arrival, this official actually seems to float down the center aisle of chairs, his white frock billowing and barely keeping pace with the official black briefcase held forth.  A quick snap and it opens to reveal the implements of his trade.  Candles, long stemmed butane lighters, a leather bound book that has been held many times before.

While the minister transforms a simple white covered table to a place for God’s blessings, he also briskly commands orders and order.  “Keep the bride in the back!  Don’t let the bride out; it’s not time yet.”  Instead the bridal party is organized, each looking to the other to make sure his or her place is as it should be.  Music is cued.  The first tentative bridesmaid steps over the threshold and into the sharp sunlight.  This cathedral is full, standing room only, and all are grateful for the faint flutter a breeze on this blistering summer wedding day.  Bathed in sunlight and a soft green frock, the bridesmaid leads the way for 6 very young, all adorable, attendants.  Next, the maid of honor strides confidently forward, ensuring her bride will be the focus of attention.  And there she is.  Michelle wore first and foremost a smile that began and ended deep inside her dimples and her heart.  A brilliant white gown flowed and swept, side to side, and all around.  A light gauze veil showcased the artistry of dozens of inked tattoos, illustrating Michelle’s sense of fun and love.

When Michelle looked down to the end of the aisle, her groom Ian presented her with the look that every bride should receive.  A confident and broad smile that seemed to say “ That’s My Girl “.  Michelle stepped onto the makeshift altar and Ian held both her hands.  The minister began.

The day progressed as it should with nuances that only this couple could bring to their wedding.  In the style of Tim Burton the wedding cake was dressed in purple with 2 little sailor zombies, looming over the corpse bride and her husband.  They are sitting at a piano, playing in the key of life, and laughing together. ”  By Janet, contributing writer.

The annual Iron Hill Twilight Criterium, West Chester, PA.  The Pro Men’s Race.  Amazing to see again these race speeds on the streets of West Chester.  For me it was the challenge of diminishing light for photography.  Loved it!

Check these other related posts:

Iron Hill Twilight Criterium – Pro Bike Race, West Chester, PA | Elite Women’s Race

Iron Hill Twilight Criterium – Pro Bike Race, West Chester, PA | Winners Gallery

Check these other related posts:
Iron Hill Twilight Criterium – Pro Bike Race, West Chester, PA | Pro Men’s Race

Iron Hill Twilight Criterium – Pro Bike Race, West Chester, PA | Winners Gallery
 

Check the Daily Local News … Schmalz wins Iron Hill Twilight Men’s Pro Criterium.  The articles also lists winners for all three races.

Here are the links to two other related posts with photos on my blog:

Iron Hill Twilight Criterium – Pro Bike Race, West Chester, PA | Elite Women’s Race
Iron Hill Twilight Criterium – Pro Bike Race, West Chester, PA | Pro Men’s Race

If you were a racer or a volunteer today, I would love to hear from you to publish some of your thoughts. Thanks in advance!