Greetings from the Bistro!

​And, another fine week it has been! Finally we are getting some well deserved nice weather. The “walls” of the patios have been rolled up letting the breezes ease through which is lovely. I’ve already had to cut the lawn twice and many of the perennials are in bloom. My garden favorites are the bleeding hearts, creeping phlox and peonies while the woods bloom with jack in the pulpits and naturalized alliums, iris and giant Boston ferns. The few containers that I plant are done and survived the frost thanks to being covered for a few nights. In the “old days” I’d display a dozen or more pots; now only the ones that hold special memories have the honor being filled with plants that will be popped into the garden at summer’s end. The pups are having a great time being outside and it’s especially entertaining to watch Pico run after the squirrels. Of course, he never gets close but gets some good exercise in the process. Niki just watches with a “why would you ever do that” look on her face, saving her energy for sunbathing time, stretched out on the warm driveway. All of the bird houses are full and I hear chicks in some already. And, best of all, the humming birds are back in full force flitting from flower to flower.
 
Traditionally, the beginning of summer and vacations start on the Memorial Day weekend. Memorial Day, the last Monday in May, became a federal holiday in 1967 although it has been celebrated since after the Civil War, then as Decoration Day, to remember fallen soldiers. In the 20th century it became all encompassing to honor Americans from all wars and all armed forces. All flags should be flown ½ mast from dawn to noon and many will visit the graves of loved ones. National cemeteries, as well as many local ones, place small flags on the graves of those who served our country in war and play the official musical salute Taps . One of my traditions is to attend mass that is held, weather permitting, in the small parish cemetery of St. Mary’s in Milford. It is a reflective and peaceful way to start the day.  
 
We are closed Sunday and Monday to give the Bistro her much deserved “every six months” facelift. Tables and chairs will be refurbished along with a deep cleaning and touch-up paint job. We’ll re-open for dinner on Tuesday at 4 PM.
 
Chalkboard Features are especially Outstanding this week...  Most important, Gazpacho is back…summer has arrived! Ours is the best. No brag, just fact! Also as STARTERS there is Beet Hummus and Spicy Asian Flavored Chicken Wings. My favorite is a Vegetarian Grain Salad Full of Veggies, Wheat Berries and a Shallot Vinaigrette. Your Favorite will be the Fried Skinless, Boneless Chicken Breast served with Mac and Cheese. Seared Ahi Tuna and Roasted Rainbow Trout Round out a Spectacular Special Menu.
 
Have a safe holiday everyone. Relax. Reflect. Be Grateful to those who have protected our Great Country.
 
MAKE EVERY DAY A MILLION DOLLAR ONE!
See you at the Bistro!! XXOO, Mary