Love is in the air!

On a recent trip to Venice (lucky me!) I was fascinated by the padlocks on the Accademia Bridge. I know this has become quite a fashion around the world (I have certainly seen it in Paris and even here in Melbourne). Locking your names to a special place (a bridge seems to be hot!) is just another statement of your love. With hawkers trying to sell a padlock as you cross I guess the temptation is just too much for some.

Love padlocks aplenty

And if you're not going to have a wedding in Venice then padlocking your love in the city of angels and cupids is probably not a bad alternative. 

Eyes only for you on the Rialto Bridge (with a bevvy of tourists watching!)

Do you know the origins of Valentine’s Day? Seems no one does for sure, but the Solvang Bakery’s blog has a bit of history, including a photo of Esther Howland, alleged mother of the modern-day Valentine card. You might not know it to look at her…

Esther Howland, via www.examiner.com

 …but beneath that Queen Victoria hairdo and starched lace collar beat the wild heart of a smoldering love goddess and wildly successful entrepreneur. Esther, you little vixen, you.
- See more at: http://www.francesschultz.com/9604#sthash.zpZNoiMs.dpuf

Do you know the origins of Valentine’s Day? Seems no one does for sure, but the Solvang Bakery’s blog has a bit of history, including a photo of Esther Howland, alleged mother of the modern-day Valentine card. You might not know it to look at her…

Esther Howland, via www.examiner.com

 …but beneath that Queen Victoria hairdo and starched lace collar beat the wild heart of a smoldering love goddess and wildly successful entrepreneur. Esther, you little vixen, you.
- See more at: http://www.francesschultz.com/9604#sthash.zpZNoiMs.dpuf

Well what do Venice and Richmond have in common you might ask! Well there's something about Richmond that always surprises! Popping down the street the other day I just happened upon a rather special hedge! I'd never seen it before! But there in all its glorified pruning was a Valentines Day heart hedge. And it wasn't even February! Enjoy.

I love you - Happy Valentine!