Welcome friends...thanks for coming by. We're seeking beauty in all of creation... in our faith and our families; our art and our music; our crafts and kitchens, and even in our own backyard. We'll share a poem or a recipe, a picture or a memory; maybe a dream of how we wish our life could be. And though we acknowledge that the world can be harsh, we're keeping it pleasant in our little corner; endeavoring to keep the words from the Book of all Books: ...Whatsoever things are lovely; think on these things.

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Photo: Bee and thistle: Taken high in the Cascade Mountains where there is a bee buzzing on every thistle. by Debora Rorvig

Sunday, August 18, 2013

Birthday at the Beach, Happy Birthday, Benjamin!

We were invited to a picnic at the beach to celebrate our nephew Benjamin's 11th birthday.  I made this fruit plate to take along. Fruit plates are my absolute favorite dish to bring to parties. Simple. Healthy. Beautiful. Easy.


I think this one turned out very pretty, if I do so say myself. And it was very easy. Cantaloupe, kiwi, and red grapes. That's it. When I do a fruit plate, I think about 3 things. First, how the flavors will complement one another. Second, how the colors will go together. Third...arrangement.
I like to use melons or pineapples because they make such a nice center for the arrangement. As you can see, I just halved the melon and scooped out the fruit. (Slice off a bit of the bottom of the melon so it will sit nicely on the plate without rocking.) Then I filled the hollowed melon with fruit, using slices of kiwi as 'petals' around the edge. The lines on kiwi remind me of flower stamens, so it was perfect for this flowery looking arrangement. Then I sliced the other half of the melon and laid them on the edge of the platter like petals. Fill in with grapes and kiwi and there you have it! So pretty!

 
Love the mellow colors. They remind me of autumn; my favorite season. Which is almost here...hooray!

 
Here's our birthday boy, chuckling at his birthday cards. We love this guy. He's kind, funny, and incredibly smart. Expecting great things from this young man!
Ben is a wonderful big brother to Katherine and Ellie.
 

 
Katherine and Ellie were selling seashells by the seashore. 50 cents apiece!
 

 


Auntie Pam and I went beach walking with Ellie and Katherine. Looking for treasures. There is always something wonderful to see on the beach. And the cool, ocean breezes were a welcome relief to the muggy heat at our house.



 
 
Their mamma stole a few quiet moments to chat with her friend.
 



Make a wish!
 
May all of your fondest wishes come true, nephew!
***

3 comments:

Elephant's Child said...

That fruit platter looks delectable. You would ALWAYS be welcome bringing gifts like that.
And I loved the happy children too, and the beach. This post has given me a breath of fresh air. Thank you.

ellen b. said...

Wonderful photos!
Your fruit plate was very creative and inviting!

Bookie said...

Looks like a great time for all! That fruit is so lovely...and the children, beautiful!

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