"Oh So Green And Delicate Little Vines"

Now and then I scoot across the Internet miles, and land on a few Scandinavian blogs. I enjoy how they decorate their homes with all sorts of vintage and antique pieces. White slip covered furniture setting on whitewashed hardwood floors caught my attention originally. As winter came and lasted so long... I was amazed at how they forced the blooming of bulbs. In the dead of winter they had spring in their homes. Now and then, my eyes focused, not on the bulbs, but the bits of Ivy placed in wonderful little glass bottles, in all sorts of different places. There seemed to be no method or order to the placement of these bits of ivy and I loved that. I've a bit of lovely green Ivy in my home now, and I thank these sweet ladies living on the other side of the globe for inspiring me in the usage of the "oh so green and delicate little vines."

Masterpiece Theater's "Little Dorritt"

Ah yes, I am very happily and completely pleased with PBS's Masterpiece Theater. A good long while a fan of Charles Dickens, I found tonights beginning episode, one of five, of Little Dorritt all that I had hoped it would be. Dicken's characters came to life by the brilliance of a fine cast of actors. This is one of Charles Dickens' most moving love stories, which also has the timely theme of chronic debt and financial collaspe. If you've missed the first episode, and have read the book, you'll still enjoy the remaining four performances. Sunday nights on PBS....9:00 PM...be there!

Words That Inspire Me

Words that inspire me are often taken from a little book titled Patches of Godlight..author Jan Karon. Ah yes...and those of you that know of him, these are favorite quotes collected by Father Timothy.

Be thankful for the smallest blessing, and you will receive greater. Value the least gifts no less than the greatest, and simple graces as especial favors. If you remember the dignity of the Giver, no gift will seem small or mean, for nothing can be valueless that is given by the most high God.~Thomas a` Kempis

When I Pull Out An Apron.......

Funny how some things just conger up all sorts of memories. In these times of uncertainties, I've been thinking a lot of a little lady that seemed content and able to survive in the worst of conditions. I never heard her complain. She had sources that allowed her to survive. She had her faith in God, and a strong work ethic. Summers visiting my grandmother, is where I learned some of my most valuable life lessons. I learned how to use a hoe, for gardening to her, was a way of life, a way of survival. She depended upon the vegetables to last all summer long and well into the winter. I learned a lot about canning, her way of storing away food for the future. A favorite memory is the process of making apple jelly. This began with the apron ritual. Old fashioned lady that she was, she always donned an apron before beginning any kitchen duties. One must never run the risk of soiling their clothing, so I too learned these protective measures. Making apple jelly could get messy, and I'm quite sure the apron served it's purpose in protecting me from the sweet and sticky part of the process. In one afternoon, this little lady with the white hair, always worn in a bun, taught me valuable lessons of "waste not want not." We peeled apples, cooked them, made and canned applesauce. The peelings and the cores were boiled, strained and put up in jars as apple jelly. In those hours we spent together, a lot more teaching and learning was going on than I was aware of. Even the apron had a lesson in itself. Her generation had seen hard times, and she had so little. She never wasted anything and what she had she cared for. I don't suppose I'm as thoughtful about those kinds of things these days, but now and then when I pull out an apron, I'm reminded of her. I loved her sweet gentle ways, she worked hard for what she had, she loved reading the Bible, I loved hearing her pray.... and..... I loved that she loved me.

Floral Images

I just couldn't resist bringing this little Peace Lily home with me. Although a house plant in most parts of the country, the Peace Lily, a tropical evergreen, adapts quite nicely to the outdoors here in Florida. I enjoy them in both places. Did you know it makes the indoors much healthier? Nasa has rated it as one of the top plants for air cleaning. I suppose it may be selected to travel in space somewhere out there in the future. For now, I'm enjoying the Peace Lily's delicate pure white flowers, placed along side other florals on my porch.

Flowers seem intended for the solace(comfort) of ordinary humanity~John Ruskin.... I couldn't agree more....

Suggested Read...April's Issue Reader's Digest

Reader's Digest has been around for as long as I can remember. They boast of being America's #1 magazine. I picked up the April issue this past week, and this evening began looking at a few articles. I've always liked Reader's Digest and it's writers seem to be fairly reasonable and fair minded. I like the humor, it's clean and seemingly offensive to no one. I enjoy reading the short stories, and some of the free lance writers are very good. Such is the case of Sam Boykin's featured story "Home of the Brave." These few pages are packed with words that are sure to stir your emotions. How seven remarkable men and women found refuge-and new hope-in America. They fled in the dark, hid in black holes, and ran from bullets. Seven remarkable men and women tell how Nazi, Pol Pot, and the monsters of Darfur could not keep them from freedom. As I read each of their stories, I wondered what they might be thinking of our country these days. They're hearing lots of complaining and rumblings. I realized, after reading about all of them, they had something in common. They were all thankful for the freedom that we have in this country. They worked hard and took advantage of all that America has to offer it's citizens. Having once lost their freedom, they would never again take it for granted. Charlene Schiff escaping the Nazi death march wanted to send a message of hope to the young people of today. "Becoming an American citizen was a gift." I think this a good read for these times. Never mind those that would put our country down. This country has fulfilled a lot of dreams and will continue to be the "Home of the Brave"......

My Sentiments Exactly

I suppose my reasoning is, having worked for many years, I've always been the sort of person to "seize the day." I like to just dive headlong into all the things facing me, using that high energy time to accomplish more lengthy or complicated duties. Maybe we're all that way, I don't know. I even have a little twinge of guilt if I haven't completed at least one or two things daily on my list of much needed to do chores. In years past, I've had so many things on that list of "have to's" that I've missed the enjoyment of accomplishment . But only lately has it occurred to me that all those things on the list don't have to be chores or duties. I think psychologically bits of entertainment during the day just might make for a more pleasing of one's attitude.

Think on this....

One ought, every day at least, to hear a little song, read a good poem, see a fine picture, and, if it were possible, to speak a few reasonable words.

~Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Think on this....

One just might take time out for a nice cup of tea mid-morning and mid-afternoon.

~Dee Dee

A Favorite Magazine...Life:Beautiful

Have you seen this new magazine? Faith For Your Journey Life:Beautiful. I picked up the spring 2009 issue today. Wanda Ventling, Editor in Chief has put together a beautiful magazine that has remarkable stories of hope, including the inspiring journey of American Idol contestant Mandisa. The folks at Life Beautiful believe God is part of every minute of every day, and that through simple daily tasks, such as cooking, serving others, raising kids-and most importantly, coming to a full understanding of God's love for us-we can all live beautiful lives. Some featured articles are Life:Rest Stop...Learn 10 easy ways to add more happiness to your life. Life:Media..A list of positive books, CDs and more; an interview with Kirk Cameron.

In every issue read articles by Dr. James Dobson, Joyce Meyer and other well known people of faith. To give you an idea of the types of things you can look forward to...page one-

Spring

Beauty surrounds us every day in glistening raindrops on budding vines and rustling bluebells blowing in the spring breeze. From the tender bleating of a newborn lamb to the astonishing magnitude of the boundless sky-we know it is You, Father in Heaven, who has crafted it all. Dear Lord, let us always remember to give You glory as we witness the beauty of Your creation and the wonders of Your love.

When I find something I really enjoy, I want to share it. Perhaps you might like to take a closer look at their website... http://www.lifebeautifulmagazine.com/

"Spring" Is Busting Out All Over

I've taken liberty with the musical Carousel's hit song...."June is Bustin Out All Over." Just couldn't help myself by substituting June for Spring. We've had a long dry spell and today we had glorious rain. I could almost hear the sighs coming from fruit trees and the tropical plants. Most of all, the pollen that has been giving so many allergy problems, has most certainly been washed away. I think it time to bring out a few decorative spring items in recognition of this time of year. I suppose it's apparent that I have "little ones" in mind. I usually have some of the same items from previous years. I love seeing their little faces as they recognize some of their favorite pieces. Hmmm...Spring is bustin out all over ......la la la la.....

Ah...the Pelican

These Pelicans seem to be enjoying the view right along with us.....

This must be the "Look-Out" .....notice no swimming allowed.......

An obvious swimming violator.....

Yesterday was a day for being outside. Now that the warmer weather is here, we all seem to be gravitating to either the beaches or someplace along the water. The beaches being crowded with young "spring breakers", we drove down to the marina. From the looks of things, we weren't the only ones soaking up some rays and enjoying the commotion that all the boaters were making.

Haiku Pelican

Wide winged full of grace

Are you longing to soar high

in search of freedom?~Dorothy Holmes

The Joyful Christian

From C.S. Lewis's The Joyful Christian...Christ says....."Hand over the whole natural self, all the desires which you think innocent as well as the ones you think wicked...the whole outfit. I will give you a new self instead. I will give you Myself: my own will shall become yours." I do wish you blessings this Lord's day.

Did you know....

Did you know that sea glass, also known as beach glass and mermaid's tears, is glass found on beaches, along oceans and large lakes? Just bits of glass that has been tumbled and smoothed by the water and sand, creating small pieces of smooth frosted glass. Tomorrow we are going to try and squeeze in with the crowd of "spring breakers" and walk on the beach. We're no different than most folks, looking down as we walk along hoping to find some sort of treasure. The mister likes looking for shark's teeth and sand dollars. I on the other hand, look for pretty shells and anything colorful that has drifted in from the ocean. Sea glass, a favorite find, is hard to come by, thus making it a much more exciting discovery. It's origins are man-made and the environment has molded and shaped the sea glass. Colors, of course depend on the original source, most coming from bottles. So, hoping for a variety of treasures to show in my next post, I wish you all a happy and adventurous Saturday.....

STRAWBERRIES

Strawberry Fields~Haiku by Joy Marsh
Speckled scarlet treats
Ripen in mossy green beds
Lucious strawberries

The good news is, they are delicious, plentiful and the perfect desert for a healthy diet. I can come up with a dozen different ways to serve strawberries, but the truth be known, I like them best sweetened with a little sugar, and covered with fresh cream.

Signs Of Spring

Evening photo......

Early morning photo....

It's a bit odd having signs of spring here in Florida at the same time the rest of country is awakening from a long cold winter. We had winter this year as well, and as a result various plants shed their leaves and went into dormancy. My Snow Bushes did just that, right along with the Crepe Myrtles. They both now have tiny little delicate leaves. The Snow Bushes have gorgeous shades of salmon, pinks and greens. I was up early and caught the morning sun shining at just the right angle to capture the various shades. My header is a close up shot...nature does such amazing things......click on photos

An Invitation Worth Considering

It just doesn't get much better than beginning the day with a group of sweet girlfriends. Breakfast over looking the Gulf of Mexico was the perfect location for us. We've been friends for years and our time spent together is more than precious to each of us. We have genuine love for one another, celebrating happy times together and crying at sad times. We've also done a lot of praying for one another over the years and we stay committed to doing that forever. Never a lull in the conversation today, we tried fitting it all into a very small space of time. Today we laughed a lot, sharing some sweet life experiences. In the course of conversation, good books to read came up and thus the reason I am reading Dinner With A Perfect Stranger by David Gregory.

You are Invited to a Dinner with Jesus of Nazareth

The mysterious envelope arrives on Nick Cominsky's desk. The normally confident, cynical Nick soon finds himself thrown off-balance, drawn into an intriguing conversation with a baffling man who comfortably discusses everything from world religions to the existence of heaven and hell. And this man who calls himself Jesus also seems to know a disturbing amount about Nick's personal life. As the evening progresses, their conversation touches on life, God, meaning, pain, faith, and doubt...it seems that having Dinner with a Perfect Stranger may change Nick's life forever. It's a small book,and a fast read..... I think you will enjoy.

Hooked On Designer Postage Stamps

Ethel Kessler

I'll admit it, I am hooked on designer postage stamps. Ethel Kessler of Bethesda, Maryland has captured my interest in some pretty amazing stamp art. Never again will I be contented to put just any old generic stamp on my cards and letters. On a recent trip to the post office, I found them completely out of the Nature of America stamp collection or any other designer stamps. Having to choose either the United States Flag or Sunflower stamps, I was slightly disappointed. I'm thankful that did not happen today. I happily brought home Great Lakes Dunes, tenth in the Nature of America series. Have you seen these? Great Lakes dunes make up one of the earth's largest freshwater dune systems. It is a place of highly dynamic landscaping, where plants and animals interact with wind, water and sand. Recipients of my mail for the next little while will perhaps find a Red Fox, a Vesper Sparrow or even a White-footed Mouse adorning the envelope. Some of my favorites also in this series are the Southern Florida Wetlands, and the Pacific Coral Reef. Thank you Ms. Kessler, I am most grateful for your stamp art. You do good work!

Three Irish Tenors

Happy St Patrick's Day!

Ah Yes...A Nice Irish Coffee

Her Name Was Esther

Her name was Esther and she was from South Africa. We had already begun our Bible study this morning, when the door opened. "This is Esther," the voice said, "she is visiting our church and will be joining your class this morning." I stood up, greeted her and offered her my chair. At the close of our lesson, we were all eager to know more about our visitor. She had been in America for a little over a year now, staying with a daughter in Maryland. To escape the cold, they were vacationing in Florida. In her homeland, she had been diagnosed with a serious heart disease and only for this reason was she allowed to leave her country. She had visited the American Embassy and surprisingly was given a visa. Esther has received good medical attention and her heart is much better. A woman in her sixties, she spoke fondly of her family and friends she'd left behind. Missing them terribly, she was able to call them often. She told of how everyone she had met in America had been so kind and generous to her. She thought our country and our people to be very beautiful.... a land that has everything. Enjoying her short time together with us, Esther wanted to remember us and asked for phone numbers and addresses. We parted as sister's in Christ. I looked into her beautiful dark eyes, embraced her and wished her well. I've thought of Esther much of the evening, knowing that for a brief moment it was as it should be. No matter what our nationalities, or whatever part of the world we live in, we as Christians, can always share an identity as part of a special family......."the family of God."

Chapel In The Mountains

Jesus said, "Where two or three are gathered in my name there am I in their midst." Matthew 18:20. Can you imagine, that this little chapel in the mountains, just might have held two, three or more. Perhaps at one time, it was filled with praise, worship, singing and prayers to the one Holy God. Be blessed where you worship this Sunday.....

When it all looks so bad......

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain.~unknown

"Spring Fever"

I'm finding it hard to stay out of the garden shops these days. Spring is definitely here and I have "spring fever." My favorite shop yielded a few of my favorites today. A tray of fuchsia and white Pentas will do nicely in a bed by the front entrance to my home. They are drought resistant and hardy plants. I couldn't resist the miniature Pansies...they look so pretty and delicate in a white porcelain pot. Flowers are the sweetest things God ever made, and forgot to put a soul into.~Henry Beecher....Life Thoughts, 1858

But Of Course....

But of course, this would be a favorite of mine, the painting by Andrew Wyeth, "Wind from the Sea." Wyeth once said, "I prefer winter and fall, when you feel the bone structure of the landscape-the loneliness of it-the dread feeling of winter. Something waits beneath it, the whole story doesn't show." The view from the window much reminds me of days spent off the coast of South Carolina. Late afternoons in small boats, we trolled through the marsh lands. It seemed somewhat desolate and abandoned, a place of timelessness. Hidden from view, a whole world of sea life.

Suggested Reading

The older theology tended to produce character. By the end of the twentieth century, we have become God's demanding little brats. In church, we must be entertained. Our emotions must be charged. We must be offered amusing programs. We give up a lot to become Christians and what little teaching we do get must cater to our pragmatic, self-centered interests. Preaching must be filled with clever anecdotes and colorful illustrations with nothing more than passing references to doctrine. I want to know what this means for me in my daily experience. Have we forgotten that God is a monarch? He is the king by whom and for whom all things were made and by whose sovereign power they are sustained. We exist for His pleasure, not He for ours. We are on this earth to entertain Him, please Him, adore Him, bring Him satisfaction, excitement and joy. Any gospel that seeks to answer the question, "What's in this for me?" has it all backwards. The question is, "What's in it for God?" ~ Michael Horton

It Looks Real Nice With A Rose

Don't you just love it when you can give new life to something old? While at the antique fair, this past weekend, I happened upon an old galvinzed wash tub partially filled with vintage furniture springs. They were also displayed throughout the shop. One filled with dried Hydrangea caught my attention. The shop owner anxious to make a sale, walked over to explain that the springs had come from an old piece of furniture. I found it fascinating, as she went on forever telling the many uses for the springs. "It looks real nice with a flower." She was a friendly lady and we lingered longer than usual to talk. Folks dealing in antiques always seem to have stories to tell and I suppose this is part of the attraction to these kind of events. She shared with us her efforts to sell a spring earlier to a shopper. She had told her of the many ways to use the springs....holding candles, holding flowers, in groupings....on and on.... The shopper had stopped her, relaying she wanted the spring for the usual purpose, she would use it in repairing a piece of furniture. "Well, the shop owner told us, I never thought of that!" I bought one of the springs, brought it home and took her advice. It looks real nice with a flower.....it looks real nice with a rose from my garden.
Because it is sure of it's beauty, the rose makes terrible demands on us. ~American rose breeder 20th century.

Ambiance

Lovely candle light....ah yes, ambiance... mood setting environment. It's Saturday evening, and it's been a long enjoyable day. I began the day with the alarm clock going off at 6:45 am. Quite startling actually, for I am a night owl kind of person and it seemed as though I had just closed my eyes. Never mind, the annual village antique show was beckoning and it was important that I be there early. Stopping off to pick up my partner in shopping, my daughter, we were off to explore the goodie laden tables, hoping for first dibs on the most coveted of antique collectibles. We did well, finding small treasures that would mostly be mementos of the day. This evening I am enjoying the "fruits of my labor." A sweet little antique silver tea strainer....for now a tea light candle holder.....sigh.......

Heed This.......

One of the illusions of life is that the present hour is not the critical decisive hour. Write it on your heart that every day is the best day of the year.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Silhouette

Traditional silhouette l8th century.....Portrait making......

Barlow settee and walled silhouette portraits....

Silhouette images in interior design, seem to be making a comeback. Since discovering this, I've been curious about the origins of this form of art. The tradition of cutting paper portraits from black card, was initially applied in the l8th century, during severe economic crisis. It seems the folks at that time found the cheapest way to record a person's appearance. On a recent trip to Disney World, our grandchildren set for silhouette portraits. Three little oval framed portraits now have a noticed place on the wall of their very contemporary styled home. As a result, I've become quite fascinated with this art form and seem to notice them everywhere. Poking around on the Internet recently, looking at finer designer furniture, I was quite pleased to find a wall of framed silhouette portraits. There they were, placed over a gorgeous, "to die for" Barlow settee. I am truly inspired by this whole setting, and can hardly believe that once again, I have fallen in love with the color green.