“A garden should make you feel you’ve entered privileged space – a place not just set apart but reverberant – and it seems to me that, to achieve this, the gardener must put some kind of twist on the existing landscape, turn its prose into something nearer poetry.” – Michael Pollan 

For those of you who may wonder what I do when I am not writing a blog post, I will tell you. Most often I can be found in the garden. Truly, I am completely over the moon about gorgeous flowers. The reason for my madness is simple – gardening is in my bones.

We all have things we love, obsess over, collect or perhaps hoard.  I prefer to think we have inherited “genes of gorgeousness.”  Clearly, no one obsesses over something they do not deem beautiful.  So, today I thought I would share a wee bit of my story – a love affair and obsession with blooms.

My flower gene came to me via my grandmother and mother.  Both lovers of the garden and flower worlds, but each were different.  My grandmother’s love was roses, and she did grow some beauties.  But my mother loved magnificent trees and flowering shrubs.  Trees, such as Hemlock, Ginkgo and Golden Rain. And flowering shrubs, such as rhododendron, azaleas and spiraea.  Mom also had a marvelous artistic talent, which came shinning through in her floral designs.  Her designs won her many flower show awards and led her to become a National Flower Show Judge.

Because of these two extraordinary women, I melt when I see old garden roses, rhododendrons in bloom or a stunning floral arrangement.  And, a June never passes that I don’t think of  mom’s Golden Rain tree.  However, like my grandmother and mother who each loved different things, I do also. I am what you might say a “crazy about what ever blooms,” kind of girl. Especially peonies.  Oh my goodness, how I love peonies.  Actually, I collect them and left over 200 different varieties in a former garden.  Although, in addition to peonies, I have quite a list of other gorgeous blooming plants I can stand for hours and gaze upon. And, I must also confess, I am a little mad about Boxwood too.         

But the point here today is, how I came by my passion. Quite simply, I inherited the “genes of gorgeousness” from my grandmother and mother.  Truly, I wish I could tell you the joy it has given me my entire life.  They passed to me a seed which has grown and bloomed profusely.  To both of them, I am forever grateful.  

Today, perhaps give some thought as to why your heart melts when you see a certain color, photos of a specific place on this earth, or glorious flowers in bloom. Then, think of a family member who was fond of the same things or places.  Ah, yes we do inherit “genes of gorgeousness.”  So, the next time you receive a gentle nudge as you gaze upon something you deem gorgeous – pay attention. You too, may have been passed a seed which is just waiting to grow.

Thanks for visiting.  I hope you have enjoyed your “walk with me.”  

Au Revoir,

Sandra

Note:  Before you leave today, be sure to check the Events section of the blog.  It has been updated and there are lots of great things happening.

Photos:  All photos are of my garden or from my garden. Photos taken by: M.S.Lambiotte

“The Earth Laughs in Flowers.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

This morning I am happy to announce the winners of my recent Giveaway.  The winners will receive a start of the award winning iris, “Stairway to Heaven.”

Types of gardeners among the winners are:   1 Leaver, 1 Reluctant Cutter and 2 Hiders.  Note:  There were 4 winners, due to a tie.

And

The WINNERS Are…

Anne, Linda P., Pam and Pinky 

Ladies:  Please click on CONTACT at the top of this page.  Leave your full name and mailing address at this section of the blog.  Your information will be sent to me directly by email and will not appear on the blog.  Your irises will be shipped via US Mail by Monday, July 17, 2017.  

So many thanks to everyone who participated in this Giveaway.  There were many great entries, making judging difficult.  However, take heart.  There are plans for 2 additional Iris Giveaways before fall.  Be sure to follow along so you won’t miss the opportunity to win a beauty.

Thanks for visiting.  Happy Summer Days to You and yours !

Au Revoir,

Sandra

“Anything which grows is always more beautiful to look at than anything which is built.”  – Lin Yu Tang

So, which type of gardener are you?  Yes, there are different types, three exactly. In case you are not familiar with the different types of gardeners, I will explain.  They are:  Cutters, Leavers, and Hiders.

I will confess, I am a Cutter.  One of the main reasons cutters garden is to bring magnificent beauty inside their homes.  You see, we fill everything imaginable with gorgeousness and place such gorgeousness throughout the house. Filling every spot large enough to hold a vessel. And by the way, cutters also haunt garage sales and thrift stores in search of containers for their fabulous garden cuttings – but that is really another post.

Next, are the Leavers.  Leavers never cut a bloom from anything in their beloved garden.  Truly, it pains them to do so.  My dear friend, and former neighbor Cathy, was a leaver.  I would cut blooms and take them to her.  She would invite me to see anything and everything blooming in her garden, but she couldn’t bear the thoughts of cutting.  However, I knew I was her special friend. From time-to-time, she would cut a single bloom of something she knew I admired, and present it to me.  True friendship and love.

Last, are the Hiders.  The hiders may possibly have some issues.  They secretly want to be cutters but can’t quite manage to constantly carry snips in their pockets – the trait of a cutter. They adore blooms inside their homes, but don’t want their lovely garden to look as though a cutter has been there.  So what do they do? They cut from deep inside, or to the back of a stand of blooms.  Thus, the foliage from the other blooms cover the trail of their work.  No one will ever know what they have done. Shameful, isn’t it?

Now that you have the ‘dirt’ on the different types of gardeners.  Let’s do something fun.  

The lovely iris above is named, “Stairway to Heaven.”  She is the child of Edith Wolford x Breakers, is 39″ in height, and a vigorous grower. Below are her credentials.

1995 – Honorable Mention Winner

1997 Award of Merit Winner

1999 – John C. Wister Award Winner

2000 – Recipient of the Dykes Medal Award Winner

Her awards were bestowed upon her by the American Iris Society. The Dykes Medal is the highest award of the American Iris Society and is awarded to no more than one iris per year. An iris is eligible for this award for three years,  following winning of a classification medal.  

I have enjoyed this beauty in our garden for many years.  Yesterday, was time for her thinning and due to her height, she needed a spot where she would be more visible.  All this brings me to: it is time for a GIVEAWAY .  There will be three winners.  To enter and win a healthy start of this beautiful award winner, you must respond via the contact button on the blog. Tell me what type of gardener you are and  explain why you feel you are a cutter, leaver or hider.  Entries must be received by Monday night, July 10, 2017.  The winner will be announced on Tuesday morning, July 11, 2017.  Note:  An objective 3rd party will select the winners.

Get busy, find a nice sunny spot in your garden for this pretty girl and enter the GIVEWAY– you just may be a winner !

Thanks for visiting.  Hugs and Love to you !

Au Revoir,

Sandra

photo:  Pinterest

“Take a flight of fancy and let your imagination soar as you become more and more aware of your personal connections to C O L O R.“ – Leatrice Eiseman

The anguish over the use of color has, and probably always will, be a major decorating decision for home owners and decorators. Today, we are fortunate to have available many decorating resources. We have wonderful design books, written by celebrity decorators showing us in detail, the color choices made for grand homes we all would enjoy. Often, we may, envision ourselves in these magnificent homes and we become inspired to bring such colorful beauty into our own homes. 

However, let’s be honest.  While our eyes may be drawn to bold and bright colors of photographs in design magazines and books , we must decide if we would be happy living with these colors on a daily basis.  Color has power and can affect not only our moods, but the moods of others as well. Our homes are where real living takes place, where we enjoy our family and friends and nourish our souls.  Truly, our castle.

So, here is where color comes to play.  We must select colors which will enhance our lives. You may or may not be aware, but there is no place where color has more influence and is more powerfully felt than in the place we call home. Because, color affects our moods: Remember, we carry these moods out into the world, therefore, effecting our interaction with others. Colors and color combinations can be stimulating as well as relaxing.  The key is: Choose the color palate for the atmosphere you wish to create, for a specific room or your entire home. Or as the French say – the “ambiance.”

Perhaps it is the many years I worked outside our home, but to me, home means peace and refuge.  A place of calm and a shelter from the craziness of our world. Because color is key to establishing a mood, I chose a Sherwin Williams color – Paper Lantern.  This color is very similar to the color in the photo below and creates  a peaceful, calm mood.  This color runs through our entire home with the exception of the bedrooms, kitchen and bathrooms.  It is peaceful and creates a seamless flow in the home.     

While I enjoy light and airy rooms, possibly you are happy in rooms with vibrant or deep colors, such as in the photos below.

Whatever your taste may be, always consider the room size, other furnishings, and the type/color of flooring in the room.  Also, a most important consideration, the amount of natural light in the room. For example: Here in North Central West Virginia we have many cloudy days, dark can become dreary and dreary affects our feelings. Therefore, a deep, dark wall color, is probably not a wise choice for a room without a good amount of natural light.

As you can see from this post, or maybe you already knew, there is a tremendous amount of information to consider with regard to color. Way too much for one blog post. So, for fear of boring you to death with color specifics, I will close for now. But before I do, I want to share some interesting information. It may offer an explanation as to why you are drawn to a certain color or colors.

Lovers of Red:  If you are drawn to red , you are very self-confident.   You are unafraid to take risks.  You are passionate, dramatic and dynamic.

Lovers of Pink:  If you are drawn to pink, you are soft, romantic and refined.  You are upset by violence of any kind.  You are talented but not overambitious.

Lovers of  Yellow:  A preference for yellow is a preference for sunshine.  Yellow people are original, imaginative, idealistic, creative, artistic, highly intuitive,  and often spiritual.

Lovers of Orange:  If you are drawn to orange, you work and play hard, are adventurous and enthusiastic.  You have strong determination.

Lovers of Blue:  If you are drawn to blue, you are calm, trusting, confident and are sensitive to the needs of others.

Lovers of Green:  If you are drawn to green, you are intelligent and understand new concepts.  You are a caring companion, loyal friend, partner, with a high moral sense.

Lovers of Purple:  If you are drawn to purple, you are generous, charming, super sensitive, keenly observant and can be moody.

Lovers of Brown:  If you are drawn to brown, you love simplicity, comfort, quality, harmony, hearth, and home.  You have firm strong views.

Lovers of Gray:  If you are drawn to gray, you are practical and calm and do not like to attract attention.  You crave contentment.

Lovers of White:  If you are drawn to white, you are neat and immaculate in your clothing and in your home.  You are a cautious buyer, you are sincere and kind.

Thanks for visiting.  Wishing you and yours a beautiful week !

Au Revoir,

Sandra

Note:  The color-personality reference is from an interior design course I completed in 2014.

Photos: Ethan Allen, Dunn-Edwards Paint,House&Garden-uk/ All photos/Pinterest

“Wouldn’t it be an exhilarating tonic for the soul to take a moment to appreciate the simple, good things in life which are so bountiful?” – Author Unknown

Thanks for visiting.  Wishing you and yours, the “simple good things.”

Happy Weekend !

Au Revoir,

Sandra

Photo:  Pinterest

“Talent is good, practice is better, passion is best.”  – Frank Lloyd Wright

Are you thinking about a room makeover?  Perhaps you are exhausted with the entire idea, but a change is something you desperately want to see. Often, due to a wide variety of reasons, we become stuck in our tracks.  And because we are stuck, creating beauty and making improvements may not be totally appealing. This often happens when we are way deep in our busy and demanding lives. We want, possibly need, to undertake a project but we just can’t seem to pull all the pieces together.  

At this point, be honest with yourself with regard to your schedule.  Absolutely no one knows it but you.  Do you honestly have time to shop, paint, sew, and transform the space into your beautiful vision?  Also, is tackling this type of venture something you enjoy?  If your answer is yes, then proceed.  Do a little each week until your vision becomes a reality.  If your answer is no, it may be time to call for help.

(Notice the repeating theme in the fabrics.  Small circles in bed skirt, circles in duvet cover and shams, drapes and shades.  Also, the porthole mirrors.   The bed linens, head board, and wall color are of the same color tone.  Great attention to detail.)

Help can come in the form of a marvelously talented friend who will sit down with you, and help make necessary choices required to carry on with your project.  This person, who knows you well, may also assist you in deciding if your project is too much for you to assume.

(Notice the header of the drapes,the bottom of the shade, and the tiny lip cording.  The fabric is cut on the diagonal and the lip cording provides separation.  Both of these elements offer an unexpected touch of interest.  Details make the design.)

However, if you don’t have such a friend, it may be time to enlist the help of a decorator or a designer.  But, which one? Perhaps, you are thinking, “They are the same.” Not true.

An Interior Designer should hold a degree in Interior Design from an accredited four year college or university.  He or she has been trained to well understand issues such as:  Structural integrity of buildings, local building codes and building laws.  Additionally, a designer is comfortable working with, and knows local architects,   personnel from government agencies and businesses.  A designer also knows and has access to: The best of skilled trades, general contractors and interior decorators. The designer has the responsibility for the entire project.  You can expect to pay $150-$500 per hour for the services of an Interior Designer, based on locality.

An Interior Decorator, often, but not required, holds a certificate in interior decoration from a community college or adult education program. Decorators are concerned with the appearance and functionality of indoor spaces. There are many fabulously talented decorators such as Charles Faudree, considered a master of French design, who had no formal training in design.  Most decorators possess an innate sense for creating beauty. Decorators are so often responsible for the magic of a stunning space.  They mix fabrics, trims, paint colors, textures and are obsessed with details. To say they can create beauty is an understatement.  A room placed in their hands, is a gem upon completion.  You can expect to pay $50-$200 per hour for the services of an Interior Decorator. Again, based on locality.

While the expense for a Designer or a Decorator may seem costly, it might not be in the end. Consider your project and decide the type of assistance you require. Once you have made your decision, remember it is your home.  Be sure you convey your taste, love of certain colors, and your total vision for the area. And, by all means, the utmost important  issue is:  Know deep down, without a doubt, the person you have chosen is full of passion for the work they do.  Their desire should be: Not only to fulfill, but to exceed your expectations by creating magnificent beauty in your home. When you know this, you will see magic.  

Thanks for visiting.  Have a beautiful week !

Au Revoir,  

Sandra  

Photo:  BHG/Leatherwooddesigncompanyblogspot/All photos pinterest

“Things of quality have no fear of time.”  – Unknown

We all have them, certain words that almost make us come out of our skin when we hear them.  The word that arouses such a reaction with me is – “dated.” Honestly, I totally bristle when I hear that word. Understand, I am not shouting for us to do away with indoor plumbing or other wonderful, modern conveniences which are so marvelously helpful.  Nor, do I mean one should keep something which is in disrepair and would be dreadfully costly to repair.  I am though, shouting for the return of common sense, respect of quality craftsmanship, and a sense of appropriateness.

Perhaps, this is why I am so drawn to the French way of life and their design.  A building or home, built in France in the 1800’s, is considered new. When renovations are made to accommodate modern living, great care is taken not to disturb or destroy the character of the home or building – evidence of incredible appreciation of quality and respect for original workmanship. A high regard for the past.  Such appreciation is not only in France. It is prevalent in many other European countries as well.

In the photo above, you will see gorgeous original stone walls.  Hand hewed and honed beams.  A lovely tablecloth, made from mattress ticking or grain sacks. Too many beautiful old homes in our country, with just such stunning workmanship, have fallen to neglect and disrepair.  Ultimately, to the blade of a bull dozier. And, beautiful linens?  Many, thoughtlessly tossed in the bin, along with whatever else was currently not – ‘in.’

I have never been one to follow what is ‘currently in.’ One reason, it is costly. Another reason, when you chase after trends you will always be chasing.  Because you can be sure, whatever is ‘in’ today will be out in a year or two.  Nate Berkus hit the mark when he said: “Trends exist to make people feel badly about what they don’t have.”  Truth, isn’t it?

So, what is one to do?  I believe you strive to buy the best you can afford with regard to any purchase.  Purchase classic pieces,”not afraid of time.” Consider the style of your home and purchase with regard to appropriateness. Our living room sofa, for example, is a camel back.  It has rolled arms and Chippendale legs.  This style sofa was made in the 18th century.  A classic, which can still be purchased today. Appropriate for our French Georgian home, built in 1939. Timeless.

Trends exist not only in furnishings, but in just about all aspects of home decor. The kitchen is an especially trendy area.  Remember, those avocado green and harvest gold appliances?  Gone.  Kitchen appliances, counter tops, lighting, faucets and flooring are all expensive. Choose carefully and choose appropriately. Choose timeless.

One last and important piece of the puzzle today is – inspiration.  When you are considering any purchase or renovation, educate yourself.  While glossy magazines and design television shows can stir your interest and offer ideas, remember what they are.  Both are in the business of selling.  Read material from decorators/designers that you admire.  Search their work online and proceed slowly with your budget in mind.  Always go with your gut regarding any and all selections. And remember: Your home is your story – beauty is timeless – timeless is never “dated.'”

Thanks for visiting.  Have a Beautiful Week!

Au Revoir, 

Sandra

Note:  The follow-up to this post will be:  Consult a Designer or a Decorator?  

Photos:  Pinterest

“A party without cake is just a meeting.” – Julia Child

We all have those summertime memories of visiting family and enjoying wonderful times with them.  Of course, food is always part of those memories.  Aunt Jane’s potato salad, cousin Martha’s lemon pie, grandmother’s homemade pickles – special people and fabulous recipes.  

I have treasured memories of spending summers with my grandmother in Mississippi. One especially sweet memory is her Blackberry Jam Cake with Caramel Frosting. To say I was thrilled each time she made this cake is clearly an understatement.This heavenly creation was always made with the blackberry jam she preserved.  She said, “The jam was a reward for her hours spent blackberry picking.”

Just in case you would like to create this sweet memory maker, I am sending along the recipe.  Do put this cake on your list of “things to bake this summer.” I promise your gathering will be a “party, not a meeting.”

Blackberry Jam Cake

1 cup butter, softened

2 cups sugar

5 eggs

3 cups flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. cloves

1 tsp. ground allspice

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup seedless blackberry jam

1 cup chopped pecans

1 cup chopped raisins or dates (my grandmother used dates) 

Preheat oven to 325.  Grease and flour 3 round 8 or 9 inch cake pans. (I use Bakers Joy with flour spray).  Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.  Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.  Combine flour, soda, salt, and spices in a separate bowl;  add to the butter mixture alternately with buttermilk; beating well after each addition.  Blend in jam, chopped pecans, and raisins or dates.  Pour into prepared cake pans.  Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a wooden pick comes out clean when inserted in the center.  Cool cake in pans on racks for 15 minutes. Carefully invert onto racks to cool completely.

Cooked Caramel Frosting

3 cups packed light brown sugar

2 Tbls. corn syrup

3 Tbls. butter

dash of salt

3/4 cup of heavy cream

1 tsp. vanilla

In a large saucepan, combine ingredients and mix well to blend.  Bring to a boil; cover and cook 3 minutes at medium heat.  Uncover and cook until a soft ball forms when dropped in cold water.  I use a candy thermometer and soft ball is about 238 degrees on the thermometer.  Cool for 3 minutes.  Beat until thick and spreadable. The mixture should begin to lose its glossiness.  Spread on layers and sides of cake.  If the frosting becomes too stiff as you are working, add just a little hot water. Also, dip spatula in hot water to smooth frosting as needed.

Listed below you will find a second frosting recipe.  This one is delicious, wonderful on the cake – but is easier to prepare.

Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

4 Tbls, butter, softened

1/2 cup purchased caramel sauce – such as Smuckers

1 tsp. vanilla

3 1/2 to 4 cups confectioners’ sugar

Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.  Add the caramel sauce and vanilla; beat until well blended.  Add 3 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar and beat on low speed of mixer until blended.  Add more confectioners’ sugar, if needed.  Increase mixer speed and beat on high for about 2 minutes.

Thanks for visiting.  Enjoy the recipes!

Au Revoir,

Sandra

Photo:  Pinterest