We had a lot of fun last weekend. We were invited by Pat Bennett, proprietor of the Marquis of Dufferin Seaside Inn, to hold an ikebana workshop at the inn. The inn, overlooking the ocean, was a very cozy place.  We loved sitting on the patio swing outside and enjoyed quiet moments just taking all the scenery in.  We also had fun tossing a frisbee around!  The food was exceptional too.  Miyako ordered the seafood chowder for both dinner and lunch!  Pat and her staff were simply wonderful and made us all feel very welcome.

For the workshop, we did bring the spider mums to be used as blossoms but the area itself was a heavenly place for the ikebanista!  Pat took us to a spot where we could cut branches to our hearts’ content--alder, tamarack larch, apple, bullrush, lupins, lilacs, quince and a lot more that we didn’t know the names of!  The participants of the workshop were ladies from the area and they were quite happy to use local branches in their arrangements.  Who wouldn’t be...they have tons of supply right in their backyards! 

Thank you all for making our first-time visit to the Eastern Shore a pleasant and enjoyable one.  We will be back!

PS. Pat Bennett also creates beautiful pottery pieces.  We have some of her unique flower holders and plates at the shop. See her profile here.