All week these four rosy tulips have been the centerpiece of the view from my front window. But already, since this photo was taken, the view has changed; the petals are dropping; time, squirrels, and weather have imposed their will. Loveliness is so brief.

It is Saturday, my only day off this weekend, as I'm beginning a three-session manuscript seminar tomorrow. I've got lots to do--laundry, gardening, groceries--but the forecast is spectacular: bright sunshine, temperatures in the 70s, after a week of cold rain. T and I are planning our first fire-pit dinner of the season, and I'm also hoping to get my bike out, dust it off, pump up the tires, and take it for an inaugural spin.

I worked on a poem draft yesterday, talked to Teresa about Donne, dealt with various teaching-related issues, edited a manuscript, and then I made porkchops marinated in lime and garlic chives, buttered quinoa and millet, roasted fennel and onions, new lettuce and arugula from the garden, and the piece-de-resistance, a mango galette--not only cute but also delicious. I was quite pleased with myself, as every part of this meal was a total invention.

Cooking is so fun.