Gentians in a friend's garden

On 6 August 2017, a few of us were invited to return to one of our absolute favourite places - Rod Handfield's acreage, SW of the city. This is always such a treat, and Rod and his wife are always so welcoming. They have an amazing forest that is usually full of so many fungi species in August. However, we knew that this was not going to be the case this time, as everywhere is bone dry. While in the forest, our leader said that normally, we would have seen 75+ species of fungus by then. Instead, we saw maybe three very small mushrooms that I didn't even bother to photograph, plus a little cluster of Oyster mushrooms. We have had the very occasional bit of rain since then, but not enough to make any difference.

Our morning hike was still very enjoyable, of course, and in pleasant weather and with good friends. After the hike, seven of us went for lunch in the tiny strip mall in the hamlet of Priddis, on the way home. Friends had said how good the food is at Jane's Cafe, and we agreed. Made a lovely end to our botany morning.

Once lunch was finished, Dorothy and Stephen invited us to go back to their place for dessert. Some people had other things they had to do and some were just too tired after the morning hike, but I accepted their invitation. These beautiful blue Gentians were just a few of the many flowers in their garden. Thanks for the delicious dessert made from berries from your garden, Dorothy!