A Century of Treasures

Hello friends!  Not long ago, some friends bought a building that began as a livery stable in the late 1800's. More recently, it was an antiques shop, and was still filled with treasures when they purchased it.  I've been helping them to find new homes for these treasures, and it's been fun researching and learning about so many different things.

Many items are from the 1800's or early 1900's.

If you happen to collect treasures from this time frame, let me know, and I may just be able to fix you up!

I'll be shop sitting for a pottery today.  Enjoy your Saturday, however you spend it!

Sweet Pups and Snow

We did indeed have a good snow, as well as a bit of ice.  This is the view looking out from our driveway.

The birds have kept me busy making suet and filling feeders.

The pups have had to step gingerly, though today the melting began.

Along with the red roses my Valentine gifted me, we have lantana that we overwintered indoors blooming.

 I did a small amount of mending and sewing.  I've canned vegetable broth and beans I had dried from our garden.  I do sometimes cook them up dried, but it sure is nice to have them ready to use at those times I haven't planned ahead.  There has also been progress  made on the dreaded taxes, which I hope to soon have ready to go, so I can get on to more pleasurable endeavors.

Holiday of Hearts

There's a good snow in the forecast for today.  The latest predicts 5-8 inches, but every time I check, that seems to change.  We'll enjoy it, regardless of how much we get.  With nowhere to be for the next couple of days, we can take it in stride.  There's a chance it could turn icy, with power outages, but we're as prepared as we can be for that possibility.  We've had flurries off and on for the past couple of days, with the snow beginning to stick yesterday.  I'm thinking I may do a bit of canning today or tomorrow.  I can't think of a time when the heat and humidity would be more welcome.  The amaryllis is blooming, just in time to cheer us in the midst of wintry weather and just the right color for a holiday dedicated to love.  Wishing you a sweet and happy Valentines Day.  Be good to yourself, and share a little love.

waiting in line

Local Talent

One of the many reasons I love living here is the amazingly talented folks that surround us.  I've spoken about the potters on more than one occasion, but there are other wonderful folks that deserve a mention.  We've recently been collaborating with local woodworker James Watt on our tables.  The sweet little walnut box above is his work, as well as the tabletop below.  Joseph made the table base and copper ginkgo leaves, which James incorporated into a walnut tabletop for a couples copper anniversary gift.  The feedback we received was filled with oohs and aahs and actual tears of joy for this lovely piece.  In addition to the custom link above, James has a small etsy shop that's worth checking out.

The amaryllis I planted at Christmas is almost about to open.  Bring on the blooms!