Dianthus barbatus (Sweet William)? Here is a link that might be useful: Sweet William

Indeed - if only this species were easier to propagate/grow. Alas, it is a tough one.

We did the Mediterranean on Oceania for our 25th anniversary, on the Insignia (this was in 2008). Insignia is pretty small, but we like that! The food was wonderful and the service (dining and cabin) was great. Since it’s such a small ship we saw the same folks all the time, and struck up friendships with many, even going on shore excursions together. I liked the excursions they offered, but I recall a few were very long days. Rome is maybe 3 hours by bus from the port, Florence and Pisa were also long bus rides. We really enjoyed the itinerary. We also spent two nights in Athens before the cruise, arranged by Oceania, and they picked us up at the airport, delivered us to the excellent hotel, arranged a city tour including the Acropolis, and delivered us to the ship on sailing day. It was all smooth and seamless, and all we had to do was enjoy ourselves. We’ve been wanting to sail with Oceania again, but their cruises tend to be 12 days or longer and we just haven’t been able to swing that much time off. Donna

Set aside the unfortunate decor, kitchen layout, and sagging overhang outside. Put on your romantic novel glasses. And you see the inviting foyer, the sitting nook!, the magnificent staircase, the coffered ceilings. Hudson Valley, I’ve always wanted to visit, maybe spend a year. The property looks like it was quite a large one, bits sold off for development over the years, leaving them their easement driveway.