How did we get to late August this fast? I’ve been so busy I just noticed the crape myrtle trees in our courtyard garden are almost finished blooming. And, now the Japanese anemones are about to bloom---something I look forward to each year. Can’t wait to post about them! I [...]
I am addicted to antique pottery from the 18th - 19th century!! From white ironstone to majolica to creamware, I really enjoy buying and selling them, and stashing a few away.....for me! :-) Shortly after discovering white ironstone I also became interested in creamware, a form of opaque earthenware started [...]
Whether collecting acorns, drying flowers, or framing herbaria, I think it is charming to bring nature inside. There are many easy ways to style using nature. Grab some pine cones for an empty bowl, for example. Such an interesting way to fill a vessel. I love displaying bowls but sometimes [...]
In my last post on our blue garden, many of you left wonderful plant suggestions. Thank you kindly! * * * * * * * An easy way to freshen up a room for summer is by changing out the pillows. Whether custom or already made, pillows can perk up [...]
I love old houses! Our 1916 Mediterranean style stucco home is full of period details such as the front loggia, green tiled roof, and gracious French windows and doors. There are also drawbacks to life in “this old house.” One disadvantage is the lack of closet space. It never bothered [...]
Though summer officially begins June 21st, I’m already more relaxed, a bit lazier, and feeling that sunny vibe. The days are longer. Weekend traffic is a breeze. Spring garden chores are all completed. Time to sit back, and enjoy the abundant blooms of hydrangeas, lilies, and daisies! For me, summer [...]
Once a year, a certain wildling outside our kitchen window redeems itself with a spectacular show. We inherited this quite old and unruly shrub, and had planned to remove it after completion of the house renovation. The contractors even whacked it back severely. The whacking stopped one spring when I [...]
At about 14 years old, I purchased my first piece of antique white ironstone china at an estate sale. It was a small creamer that was part of a frilly Victorian coffee set. I have no idea what happened to it, but I do remember paying very little. Today I [...]
I have been growing myrtle topiaries as houseplants for nearly 10 years. I favor the small leaf variety myrtus communis compacta, which is great for shaping. And, yes, I lost quite a few early on :( Here are growing tips on these finicky gems: - Plenty of sunlight. Keep in [...]
Every spring I get the urge to freshen up the house and redecorate. Sometimes I reupholster, change out pillows or replace one major piece of furniture or large accessory. This year I've decided to replace the beige wool rug in the family room. It, along with much of the furniture, [...]
