Camellia season!

It's been so cold and rainy this winter, and I'm not complaining...okay, maybe I am, a little. I'm thrilled the mega-drought is over, but I take a little sunshine with my rain. The good news is that signs of spring are already appearing in the garden. I'm happy to report my beloved camellias are starting to bloom! I get so nostalgic this time of year since camellias remind me so much of my roots in the deep South. My mind drifts to New Orleans and, naturally, to carnival season. Back  home, Mardi Gras kept spirits bright after the magic of Christmas faded. I miss the excitement of the first parade and how the blooms of Japanese magnolias and antique camellias in the city's residential gardens signaled the start of what turns out to be a never-ending party. There's nothing for my blues except maybe a pot of red beans (made with Camellia brand dried red beans of course). If you're in the mood for some authentic carnival food, check out the recipe links below and laissez les bon temps roulez! No place has quite captured my heart like NOLA, and I miss the Big Easy a little more when the camellias are in bloom.
King Cake recipe
Red Beans and Rice recipe