tids and bits

I am linking up with Alycia at Crowley Party for the first-ever edition of Tids + Bits Thursday.

First tid:  I have become a little obsessed with taking pictures of plant life and flora. I blame the camera.

Our little tiny Japanese Maple

Our little Peony bush has one bud. I moved the bush several years ago. Last year was the first year it produced a bud after I moved it, but Piper found it just as it was blossoming and she destroyed it! I'm really really hoping this little bud gets to blossom this year! Am I old if I am pining away over whether or not a plant is going to blossom??? Don't answer that.

And now a bit:  Remember when I said our lilac bushes look dead? You be the judge:

This is a picture of two lilac bushes. One is huge, green, lush, and beautiful.
The other is scrawny and looks like it's ready for the kindling pile.
WHY?! Please someone tell me why ours looks like a peasant and the neighbor's looks like an emperor!

Annnnd...one last tid:  I got to enjoy a dinner, just women! 

To celebrate my good friend Brett's (and her twin sister's!) 40th birthday.

Brett & Branda (the birthday girls) are right in the middle. Brett in white & turquoise, Branda in pink & black.
We had Mexican food! Mmmm. Even better, lots of laughs and girl time.