UN MOMENTO..FROM SIENA

As we sat in the hotel garden eating breakfast, I noticed each table bore a small pot plant. Ours was an unusual green succulent with red-fringed leaves.
In the interests of botanical wotnot, I relieved said plant of one of its leaves and placed it in my serviette (or it might have been a napkin), for safe keeping.
We continued our week's cycling and Little Leaf stayed snuggled in its protective cover, with just the occasional drop of water to keep it cool.
I planted it when home.
For the first 2 years it grew slowly and made more leaves.
Last year it produced a spectacular flower, just like this one, but only the one.
This year, there are 4 or 5 long red buds all waiting to come out.
It's so exciting.
Since I took this picture this morning, the flower has folded itself back up for the night.
Exactly as I plan to do now.
Buona Notte.