May 16th, 2012

Amazing Tree Peonies At Rockefeller State Park Preserve

I love growing peonies and I especially love growing tree peonies.  The plants in my collection are many years old and when I moved from Turkey Hill to my farm in Bedford, I also had every single tree peony relocated, as well.  The tree peony season is a short one, lasting just seven to ten days.  That period is made even shorter if rainfall spoils their glorious blooms.  This year, gardeners are well aware that our earlier hot weather really advanced blooming times and tree peonies were in full bloom at the end of April.  I had the good fortune to see an exquisite display at the Rockefeller State Park Preserve in Pleasantville, New York.  If at all possible, I urge you to see this magnificent garden next spring.

May 15th, 2012

Honoring Maurice Sendak

As you may have heard, Maurice Sendak, the writer and illustrator of children’s literature, passed away last week.  He is, of course, the best-selling author of one of the most beloved children’s books of all time, “Where the Wild Things Are.”  Several years ago, Sendak paid a visit to my Connecticut television studio where we talked about his work, about books that influenced him, and about the importance of reading to your children.  In 2009, I posted a blog about the Halloween special that my television crew created, inspired by the recent release of the wonderful movie, “Where the Wild Things Are.”  Our set was transformed into the Land of the Wild Things and I had so much fun with guest, Jimmy Fallon.  In honor of the passing of Maurice Sendak, I am reposting those photos.

Watch My Interview With Maurice Sendak:

May 14th, 2012

Attending the Costume Institute Gala at the Met

Last week, I attended the annual Costume Institute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.  The gala celebrated the new exhibition, “Schiaparelli and Prada:  Impossible Conversations,” and it was hosted by Carey Mulligan, Anna Wintour, Miuccia Prada herself, and honorary co-chair Jeff Bezos.  Often referred to as “Fashion’s Oscars,” this party is always fun and colorful!