Window on George

Tall chestnut trees line the opposite bank of the river that runs through Mandy's property.  Unfortunately, the chestnut season is at its very end in August when I visit, and new leaves are already sprouting. Her neighbour Francis has the most spectacular hydrangeas, or Christmas Roses, as we call them.  Francis is very generous, and invites us over every Christmas morning to pick armfuls for our Christmas table.   We add some of Mandy's agapanthus and lavender, some Dorothy Perkins climbing roses, open a bottle of JC le Roux Champagne and then all of a sudden, it's Christmas!  Mandy calls them "see perdjies" (sea horses).   A rose by any other name would smell as sweet!  Don't know their actual name, but I love all purple and blue flowers. This beautiful spot is enjoyed by the local bird life as well, with the peacocks and guinea fowls taking prime position, being fed by all the families who live along the river. ...

My Moviepeacock - YouTube : 'via Blog this'

Hong Kong is a concrete jungle but there are always pockets of surprises and beauty around every corner.   One must just always be on alert, like Petie used to say. These are on the street just outside my flat, on the way to the MTR station. Tibouchina, I think? I love the fact that here Coleus grows outside, unlike back home where it's a delicate indoor pot plant! Can't remember the name, but they are very prolific here in HK. They remind me of the fireworks!

1st October 2011 National Day fireworks Victoria Harbour Hong Kong Photo from South China Morning Post Professionals my photo

Flannel Flowers My favourite florist in Hong Kong The Waratah, from Australia.    Hi Dalene, dit is 'n Waratah (Telopea spp.), bekende snyblom inheems aan Australia. Dit is verwant aan ons Proteas en lyk baie soos ons Protea leucospermums. Nice fotos. Groetnis,  Hans . Thanks, Hans!