teaorwine

taking tea...

2012-01-31T11:26:00.003-05:00

Mums the word...

2012-01-30T18:58:00.003-05:00

It seems Shirley MacLaine, sister of Warren Beatty, will play Lady Cora's mum in season three of Downton Abbey. I wonder if she will experience any spiritual encounters, perhaps with the Mr. Pamuk??

a fan of Mary Crawley...

2012-01-27T10:36:00.004-05:00

"For the fans of the flawlessly flawed Lady Mary Crawley..."

salutations en français...

2012-01-24T15:56:00.001-05:00

source

...time for tea

2012-01-19T10:03:00.002-05:00

tabitha emma

“A little nonsense now and then, is cherished by the wisest men.”

2012-01-15T09:30:00.006-05:00

Recently released by the Royal mail in the UK, this postage features the illustrations by Quentin Blake as seen in Mr. Dahl's cheeky children's books.

“A little nonsense now and then, is cherished by the wisest men.”
~Roald Dahl~

Sunday eve...be there or be square!

2012-01-05T17:41:00.005-05:00

...a nutcracker ornament for 2011

2012-01-02T12:42:00.003-05:00

Each year, I needlepoint an ornament for each of my kiddos to place on their Christmas trees for years to come. This year, I chose a holiday favorite, the nutcracker.

Happy holidays to all!

2012-01-01T14:44:00.006-05:00

Telex from Cuba

2011-12-12T23:15:00.002-05:00

As a young child growing up in southern Miami during the 60's, many of my schoolmates were Cuban refugees whose parents had fled their homes following Castro’s uprising. The Cuban culture and mystique has fascinated me as a result of this association earlier in life for me. So, I recently read Telex from Cuba by Rachel Kushner. Ms. Kushner tells the story of American families living in Cuba prior to the takeover by the Castro brothers in the late 50’s. Told through the eyes of a young boy and the son of an American executive in Cuba, Ms. Kushner tells the story of the sugar cane and nickel mining industries in Cuba and the Americans who manage the operations there. Worth a read, for sure.

source

lemon & line

2011-12-11T16:02:00.001-05:00

Love, love, love this bracelet from lemon & line.

Suzanne Rheinstein

2011-12-04T12:54:00.001-05:00

This past week, I attended a lecture at the Jacksonville Arts and Antiques Show presented by Suzanne (the a in her name is pronounced with the schwa sound) Rheinstein. Prior to her lecture it was announced that she would be donating her entire speaker's fee to the benefitting charity: a charming gesture from a gracious woman. Suzanne was, of course, promoting the sale of her fabulous and recently published book,

At Home: A Style for Today with Things from the Past

which was available for purchase and signing directly following her presentation. I did not bring along my copy as it is a quite large book and I am not sure how a previously purchased book is handled when it comes to a signing. A world traveler, Suzanne told the tale of her life which began in New Orleans where she was greatly influenced by the architecture and gardens there, especially Longue View and the works of Ellen Biddle Shipman, the landscape architect. A slide show of her house in Los Angeles and her

pied-a-terre in NYC was shown, which included many glimpes of additional works, most of which can be found in her recent book.

Tidbits gleaned from her words:

~The coir rugs in her houses are layed over, not glued down to existing flooring. They are edged in leather. They keep her rooms "grounded".

~Suzanne uses slipcovers to change out for the summer months, and they are gorgeous.

~Suzanne is fond of fabric applications to walls. No padding is used underneath, though often the fabric is painted with a latex, to give it shape and body, I suppose. The transistions or edges are finished with tape, often fine grosgrain ribbon used by milliners.
To learn more about Ms. Rheinstein, have a look at the 1st Dibs piece on her and her shop, Hollyhock.

~Happy Halloween~

2011-10-30T13:05:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, I read aloud to young people at the Udvar-Hazy Center, Smithsonian during the
Air&Scare event.

Dressed in character, I read

By The Light of The Halloween Moon.

cheers!

2011-10-25T15:39:00.003-05:00

source

...well said

2011-10-22T07:54:00.002-05:00

source

...been to Bermuda

2011-10-18T15:54:00.000-05:00

Bermuda is a beautiful location for some golf.

Charming bits and pieces...

2011-10-03T09:35:00.000-05:00

I have just recently completed the Encyclopedia of the Exquisite: An Anecdotal History of Elegant Delights, by Jessica Kerwin Jenkins. I compare this account to a walk through a fabulous museum and reading every single description under every article of interest. Ms. Jenkins presents something for everyone here: art, cuisine, fashion, phenomena, history, phrases, language, personal situations and more, with provenance all over the world. A lovely book with snippets of out of the ordinary information, it is worth a read. As well Ms. Jenkins maintains a blog, where the stories from within her book continue on.

Mushrooms

2011-09-27T20:30:00.000-05:00

Warm and damp conditions have proven to be perfect for fungi formation in the woods behind my house.

Addendum: Please, do not put these little lovelies in a fry pan with some olive oil! They are not edible as one can see here.

a glimpse of Florida...

2011-09-19T10:21:00.001-05:00

I have recently returned from the condo in Florida where it was warm and lovely, sans hurricanes and tropical storms, oddly enough.

Built in the Spanish Mission Style, the building has a stucco surface with a clay barrelled roof as well as arches, balconies, wrought ironworks and an irregular roof line.

While I was in Florida, I was the keeper of Izzy, the wonder dog, the dau's fabulous pooch, while she was away for a bit.

small wrought iron, glass-topped side table on the lanai

French apothecary jar

My Grandmother's desk

Wrought iron lantern with seeded glass panes suspended in the entryway.

The Colonel's parent's desk

Giant custom made curtain

which covers the extremely large sliding glass door.

wine enjoyed...

2011-08-23T11:23:00.004-05:00

We have recently subscribed to Laithwaites Wine Club and are pleased with the selections which are arriving. The delivery is so much easier than lugging the bottles home from the shop yourself.

Sticklers unite!

2011-08-18T11:42:00.002-05:00

Just finished this easy-to-read treatise on punctuation. Worth a read, for sure.

I bet Aunt Josephine did as well.

Considering a visit to the United Kingdom?

2011-08-04T10:11:00.001-05:00

With the 2012 Olympics to take place in London, a fantastic ad campaign has arisen to encourage travel to the UK. There is something for everyone... Dame Judi Dench, Rupert Everett, Dev Patel, Jamie Oliver and even Twiggy. Be sure to watch them all. You're invited!

Curb appeal: Palma Ceia

2011-07-20T11:40:00.002-05:00

While visiting the dau in Tampa, we took the pup for a stroll down a street lined with classic and restored to perfection homes and bungalows, close by to her latest residence in Palma Ceia. Click on the photos for a larger example and to see all the wonderful detail.

This was the dau's favorite, by far. Love the coral door and cushions. Love that the mail is delivered through a slot in the entrance...tres charming!

Porch swing, plantation shutters, brick veranda, existing and preserved oaks.

Lovely fanlight above the door and sidelights. Perfectly landscaped for minimal upkeep. Captain's walk on first floor roofing. Clerestory window above.

Lovely corbels under the detailed portico.

Unique garage doors

Again, a gorgeous fanlight and sidelights. Lantern suspended in the carport. Gas-lighted lanterns flanking the front entrance. Upstairs bay window.

Canopy road

Trellis surrounding the front door with what looks to be a jasmine training upward.

Fabulous brick walkway, columned portico, gas lit lanterns.

Loved the tree cut-outs on the shutters

This home had a large planting of Boston ferns in a portion of the front space...just amazing.

Tree-lined street with sidewalks on both sides of the street. So quaint.

Many of these houses had plantation shutters only on the bottom half of the window to allow plenty of light, though provide privacy to its inhabitants.

... a cooling beverage

2011-07-18T08:14:00.002-05:00

photo source

Strawberry, Lemon, and Basil Soda... a refreshing summer beverage and fabulous way to use a bit of the abounding crop of fresh basil.

...brew up

2011-07-11T12:07:00.000-05:00

Time to brew up, indeed!

The Village of Pinehurst

2011-07-07T12:13:00.000-05:00

Parlor in the Carolina Inn

Halls are lined with historical photos.

Fabulous Rolex clocks abound to keep you from being late for your tee time!

Resort Clubhouse and putting green

Cover from a past program

Payne Stewart memorialized.

Many original cottages have been carefully restored and occupied.

The Village Chapel

Wind vane atop the chapel

A vintage water pump in a garden setting

A cupola

The Sandhills of North Carolina

upholstery in the Holly Inn

The Holly Inn

Our lovely bathroom with black and white tiling. We stayed at the Carolina Inn which is highly worth a visit.

... gone golfing

2011-06-29T16:38:00.000-05:00

Be back after the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Peeps: All year long

2011-06-25T15:30:00.000-05:00

Peep magnets

Peep diorama

The Peep Store

...worth a watch

2011-06-22T08:37:00.000-05:00

The House of Windsor, currently airing on PBS channels is worth a watch.

...a return from paradise

2011-06-08T10:15:00.000-05:00

Coral Beach & Tennis Club

The Colonel and our son played golf in the annual Member-Guest tourney at the pleasurable Mid Ocean Club.

Entrance to Mid Ocean Club with gorgeous cedar woodwork

Amazing rock formations

Bull's eye for the chipping contest

My son won, landing the ball 2 1/2 feet from the pin and in the dark as the sun faded quickly.

The flags delineate measurements for the longest drive contest.

My son preparing for the longest drive contest.

Fantastic scenery and coastal vistas

Lovely poached salmon complete with King Neptune crowns made of carved zucchini

Bermudian flag flying on the back of the boat

Homes on Millionaire's Row

... a buffer zone

2011-05-18T08:32:00.000-05:00

The Crazy Shine nail buffer comes with a reasonable price and creates a brilliant shine to the fingernails sans polish. Long-lasting, as well. Worth a try!

Blue False Indigo

2011-05-10T10:40:00.002-05:00

These Blue False Indigo were planted in my gardens last spring and have come back even more verdant this spring. The color in the blooms is incredible.

Dexter meets Boston Legal

2011-05-04T09:16:00.000-05:00

Glenn Close plays a ruthless, powerful attorney with Machiavellian tendencies in this intriguing thriller.

I have started Season One on Netflix and am hooked. Worth a watch.

Damages

Love the sunglasses

A stamp of approval...

2011-04-15T07:33:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, the USPS released the GO Green postal stamps. They carry the forever status, of course.

Upstairs Downstairs

2011-04-12T07:45:00.000-05:00

If you are missing Downton Abbey, you will love Upstairs Downstairs currently playing on PBS's Masterpiece Theater. Laura Linney returns to introduce the series. All the drama and eccentricity one can take are here for the watching. One observational note: Lady Maud, if your monkey, Solomon must sit on the table while drinking sweet tea and munching chutney, he needs to wear pants.

Games I play...

2011-04-11T08:35:00.000-05:00

Abble Dabble HD

Words with Friends

All on the I-pad

Off to Augusta this week...

2011-04-04T12:57:00.002-05:00

a Wardian case...

2011-03-29T16:55:00.000-05:00

An assortment of ferns are the most recent additions to the Wardian case.

The Irish Country House

2011-03-27T12:30:00.000-05:00

I recently viewed The Irish Country House, courtesy of Netflix. Anjelica Huston, who grew up in an Irish country home, beautifully narrates the documentary which features many manors, castles, mansions and historic homes and their coexisting parkland across Ireland. Worth a watch.

Sarah's Key

2011-02-23T10:15:00.001-05:00

I have just completed reading Sarah's Key, a story of a young Jewish girl living in Paris, France and the woman who discovers her fateful story long afterwards. The movie format has recently been released. Worth a read, for sure.

Frick and RL

2011-02-20T12:26:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday was spent wandering around NYC. A first time visit to the Frick Collection was a joy. Gorgeous architecture, collections by the Master painters of the world and an excellent movie which details the background of Mr. Henry Clay Frick and his desire to collect make this a great stop-off while in NYC. Particular favorites were St. Thomas More (especially after finishing up the Tudors series recently) and Gilbert Stuart's depiction of George Washington. Unfortunately, no photography is permitted inside, so I have no pics to share.

Just around the corner would be the Ralph Lauren flagship store located in the Rhinelander Mansion and is a must. This visit brings an even more lovely restoration, this time with lots of elegance. The fourth floor had just opened and professional photographers were busy working so I snapped only in the massive stairwell. Even the comfort rooms in the basement are lovely. Worth a visit.

Addendum: For more on the Rhinelander Estate and RL, have a look at this month's Veranda magazine

NYC: Morimoto

2011-02-19T10:17:00.000-05:00

Dinner at Morimoto offers selections from the original Iron Chef and is quite entertaining as well.

Sake sampling

Italianano take homes...

2011-02-17T11:35:00.000-05:00

Some goodies in the basket for me: assorted pastas including orzo, tomato puree for sauces or soup, an Eataly tee shirt for excersizing, Italian tea!

Italy is Eataly

2011-02-16T12:09:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, the Colonel and I joined the Bermudian contingency in New York for a visit. Weather was fabulous: cool and clear with a just a few flurries to make the winter known. By far, the best site was Mario Batali’s Eataly in the Flatiron district. A pleasurable combination of IKEA and Dean & Deluca, it is an Italian foodie’s paradise. Worth a visit, for sure.

Baskets of fresh vegetables are offered as they would be in the outdoor European markets.

Jars of assorted pestos and roasted peppers.

More pasta selections than anywhere else, for sure.

Freshly baked breads

Sweets

Italian teas

Bouncing up a previous posting...

2011-02-14T09:28:00.000-05:00

For a return to a post in February 2009: Valentines collected by my Grandmother long ago.

the kettle's always on...

2011-02-05T09:40:00.003-05:00

source

Is this not the best graphic ever? Many thanks to Rosemary at Content in a Cottage for sending it on to me!

Put your feet up for awhile...

2011-02-03T09:02:00.001-05:00

Recently, I needlepointed the top for this stool for my dau-in-law.
Shhh...don't tell; it is a surprise gift to her.

... a soiree

2011-02-01T08:57:00.000-05:00

Most recently, the Colonel and I attended a private event at a beautiful contemporary home in Great Falls. As we departed, all guests took along a bottle of Cotes du Rhone wine and a Red Velvet cupcake (devoured and delicious), courtesy of Georgetown Cupcakes. Lovely event, it was.

Put the kettle on...

2011-01-30T09:32:00.000-05:00

source

Here we have a tea kettle crafted from vintage papers in collage form. Just lovely.

"The frolic architecture of the snow"

2011-01-28T12:37:00.000-05:00

A quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson's poem,
The Snow-Storm describes the day here in Northern Virginia as well as much of the Northeast.

A gift over the Christmas holidays, my slippers are good to wear to today.

The King's Speech primer

2011-01-24T22:56:00.001-05:00

The nippy temperatures of the winter allow for much movie watching. Last night and courtesy of Netflix, I watched Bertie & Elizabeth. Previously aired on PBS’s Masterpiece Theater, the movie tells the tale of the Royals in the early 20^th century. Very well done.

Return to Cranford

2011-01-21T09:36:00.000-05:00

I wish I had the chance to watch the second of the Cranford stories at Christmas time as it is a wonderful and warm story. Return to Cranford takes one back to this 19th century village and its strong woman including Miss Matty Jenkins played by Dame Judi Dench.

The locations remind me of my collection of small porcelain houses that I collected while traveling around the United Kingdom.

Definitely an "add" for your Netflix list.

small domestic glimpses...

2011-01-20T09:18:00.001-05:00

I am amazed at the blooms on this African Violet during the winter months.

Winter crafting...

2011-01-19T10:50:00.000-05:00

The nippy winter conditions are intended for creating. These diminutive wreaths are made from bay leaves, studded cloves, dried beans, cinnamon sticks and either pinecones, magnolia seed pods or sweet gum pods.

a winter welcome...

2011-01-18T11:50:00.001-05:00

I love boxwood wreaths so much, I leave this on display well into the winter and uplit in the night.

Is the butler's pantry a place to store trousers?

2011-01-13T11:46:00.000-05:00

There is much talk suggesting that PBS has shortened and edited the footage of Downton Abbey, for fear Americans would lose interest and/or lack the background knowledge to fully understand the British vernacular, circumstances unique to the era, etc. I must confess, I did find it necessary to google "entailment" at the closing of the first episode for supplementary clarity of this legal verbiage. So, Laura Linney appears in a prologue to set the picture for those on the other side of the pond, prior to viewing. Apparently, should one watch the series in DVD form, rather than the PBS version, one will see it in its entirety, unrevised.

A most humorous composition authored by the creator of the series, Julian Jolley-Goodfellowes can be read here. Do scroll down to his remarks which will not only cause you to chuckle, but disclose many of his premises for the tale.

Care to add comment??

"What's a weekend?"

2011-01-12T14:54:00.000-05:00

I am so enjoying Downton Abbey on Masterpiece Theater.

Keep calm....

2011-01-07T11:43:00.001-05:00

photo source

A holiday gift from my dau. Thank you!

Bali Ha'i

2011-01-03T12:12:00.000-05:00

To ring in 2011, the Colonel and I caught a performance of South Pacific at the Kennedy Center. A remake of the 1949 Rodgers & Hammerstein musical, the production featured talented singers and actors, for sure. We were seated in a box, complete with our own coat closet which housed our coats on a chilly evening.

Following the performance, glasses of Moet-Chandon were served. Fun party hats were distributed. A great time it was!

Best wishes in the new year...

2011-01-01T10:39:00.000-05:00

photo source

Best wishes for a Merry Christmas to you...

2010-12-24T08:44:00.002-05:00

paper tea cups

2010-12-22T14:32:00.000-05:00

photosource

A Rocking Christmas...

2010-12-20T09:30:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday, the Colonel and I took in a performance of the Radio City Rockettes. Yes, I had to be in Northern Florida to see this well-known New York holiday show for the first time. These girls can really kick!

narcissi

2010-12-17T09:23:00.000-05:00

Can't get enough of the earthy scent of these delicate blooms.

feu de bois...

2010-12-16T18:18:00.000-05:00

In Florida, I have an electric fireplace which is more aesthetically pleasing than warming. It does however create the feel of a burning fire sans the scent. A burning Feu de Bois candle creates a near authentic aroma of a crackling fire in the hearth. A must for the holiday season.

Holiday reading...

2010-12-15T09:57:00.000-05:00

domestic glimpse.6

2010-12-13T14:37:00.000-05:00

For my dining pleasure.

Today is a hot tea day...

2010-12-07T12:30:00.000-05:00

photo source

elegant French tea towels

2010-12-02T19:29:00.005-05:00

The dau surprised me with a trio of lovely Yves Delorme linen tea towels!

Christmas on the Potomac

2010-11-18T15:14:00.005-05:00

Last eve, the Colonel and I attended the premier opening for the Christmas on the Potomac attraction at the Gaylord at the National Harbor. It was a spectacular evening complete with fireworks, lighting of the holiday tree and a chance to visit the ice displays which are based on How the Grinch Stole Christmas, by Dr. Seuss. The temperature within the ice arena was a chilly 9 degrees; parkas are issued for warmth. Should you visit, best to take along a pair of gloves as there are no pockets on the parkas to keep your fingers warm.

Unique decor on the tables at the cocktail reception

M&M's on the table ...simple yet festive

Colorful ice formations

The Cat in the Hat, of course

Thirsty?

2010-11-11T17:26:00.000-05:00

Tired of purchasing bottles of Pellegrino only to finish them off in minutes, the Colonel purchased for me the Sodastream. No more bottles to be fill the trash. I use filtered water from the refrigerator and the BPA-free bottles. Worth every penny.

The Soul of a House

2010-11-09T11:19:00.001-05:00

A truly lovely book, Chris Madden's The Soul of a House: Decorating with Warmth, Style, and Comfort reveals the details of her well-appointed carriage home in New York and family home in Vermont.

I love, I love, I love my little calendar girl...

2010-11-05T08:23:00.000-05:00

Recently viewed, The Calendar Girls is a most enjoyable movie based on a true story and set in the UK.

The Biltmore Estate: Koi, fountains and horses

2010-10-28T13:34:00.000-05:00

Poseidon's trident clutched in the fish's tail.

This fountain drained into a large stone receptacle designed for horses to drink from.

The large gait on this stair steps was designed for horses to ascend and descend carefully.

gleaming Koi

The water receptacle is visible here.

Gargoyles guarding

2010-10-20T17:05:00.000-05:00

Apparently, stone cutters were brought in to carve the Gothic gargoyles and grotesques as well as other intricate ornamentation from the limestone and rock at the Biltmore Estate. Gargoyles and grotesques are commonly seen on the castles of Europe, put there to ward off evil-doers.

A knight in shining armor

hear no evil...

Lastly, I will feature a selection of wall fountains.

architectural features at the Biltmore Estate

2010-10-18T09:39:00.000-05:00

Intricate ironworks everywhere

Winter Garden ceiling

Seating for a small, intimate dining experience

Bas-relief sculptural wall hanging

A room just for flower containers and vases

V for Vanderbilt, of course

Tapestry

Hanging lanterns in the Winter Garden

Loved these gleaming and hanging copper pots and lids

One over-sized mortar and pestle

Stone carving details everywhere

Next, the gargoyles guard the Biltmore Estate.

Allison Williams and Mad Men

2010-10-14T09:40:00.000-05:00

Allison Williams, daughter of Brian Williams performs a mix which includes the theme from Mad Men. Just amazing.

Biltmore Estate

2010-10-13T19:00:00.000-05:00

Last month, the Colonel and I attending a wedding in Asheville, North Carolina. While there, I scooted over to the Biltmore Estate. The numerous gardens and conservatory , all designed by Frederick Law Olmstead were gorgeous.

bird nest in espaliered pear

espalier

bird's nest gourd

Castor bean plant

Allamanda

unfurling fern frond

Giant lily pads

Papyrus

Last month, the Colonel and I attending a wedding in Asheville, North Carolina. While there, I scooted over to the Biltmore Estate. The numerous gardens and conservatory were gorgeous. Next, I will feature architectural interests.

Tea time

2010-10-06T09:16:00.000-05:00

photo credit

I'm singing in the rain...

2010-09-30T18:07:00.000-05:00

Just placed an order for these short rain boots. I believe we may just float away if the rain continues!

Yabba dabba do!

2010-09-30T14:40:00.002-05:00

Happy 50th birthday Fred, Wilma, Betty and Barney!

Love these Google doodles! I was six years old when the Flintstones first aired and I remember the anticipation and excitement. Meet the Flintstones. I even named a dog Dino, once.

When the moon is in the seventh house and Jupiter ...

2010-09-23T06:59:00.000-05:00

photo credit: NASA/JPL

Did you have a chance to catch a sighting of the harvest moon and Jupiter last night? Nature is amazing!

Jon Hamm reveals

2010-09-16T15:25:00.000-05:00

photo credit

This afternoon, Terry Gross broadcasted her recent interview with Mad Men star,

Jon Hamm on NPR's Fresh Air. Worth a listen.

Kimberly Queen

2010-09-15T08:08:00.005-05:00

These lush ferns flourish out-of-doors during the summer.

I place it in the garage for the winter months and return it to the deck in the spring.

Clips and rings

2010-09-13T08:28:00.000-05:00

These were lovely gifts to my parents on their wedding day from family and friends. The bottom set would be napkin clips, popular back in the 40's and 50's. They are not machine, but hand-engraved. Very Mad Men.

quelques chapeaux

2010-08-30T09:26:00.002-05:00

So many hats and only one head.

Creeping along...

2010-08-27T08:13:00.000-05:00

Creeping thyme

The Buccaneers

2010-08-26T08:11:00.000-05:00

The English invaded America; now it's your turn!

I am currently in the middle of this fabulous British series, complete with a footprint in America.

J'apprends a parler le francais.

2010-08-21T15:41:00.000-05:00

Bonjour! Rosetta Stone student here.

Bentwood Rocker

2010-08-09T09:01:00.000-05:00

Purchased in the 70's, this bentwood rocker needed a refurbishing. I stripped it and slathered it in tung oil. The seat and back were then re-caned. I am pleased with its new look.

Jumping for joy...

2010-08-07T14:24:00.000-05:00

This young man, made of wood, was hand-carved and painted in Southern Germany many years ago. I was drawn to the delightful detail in his clothing and chapeau, as well as his smile. Pull his string and he will dance.

Cranford

2010-08-04T22:13:00.000-05:00

Cranford does not disappoint.

Smoke, smoke, smoke yourself to death!

2010-07-27T09:55:00.001-05:00

This week, I am enjoying the Rosemary & Thyme series, courtesy of Netflix and loving Mad Men , courtesy of AMC. Have a look at this montage of smoking moments from the show. No worries, the ciggies apparently are quite benign. Does the sound of the little metal lighter snapping shut bring back memories of the sixties to you?

Horticultural sleuths in the UK

2010-07-24T14:26:00.000-05:00

Rosemary & Thyme

Where to summer?

2010-07-15T15:38:00.003-05:00

photo source: Washington Post

I want to summer here.

Heaven or Bermuda?

2010-07-11T16:29:00.009-05:00

The Colonel and I spent the Fourth of July weekend with the son, DIL and family in Bermuda. SO lovely!

Coral Beach & Tennis Club, Bermuda

"You can go to heaven if you want. I'd rather stay in Bermuda."

~Mark Twain~

Here comes the sun king...

2010-07-10T16:27:00.006-05:00

Several years ago, I discontinued the land line service at my house and never sought a land line for my residence in Florida. Email and wireless phoning seemed enough. One technology replaces another.

One issue which must be considered is how to charge the batteries should the electricity source be lost for any of many reasons. I have chosen the Solio Solar charger as an alternative in the event electricity is not available. Charged by the sun's energy, electric outlet, auto lighter outlet or computer, it may come in handy some time. The charge remains for one year. To obtain a 100% charge via solar source, the charger must be in direct sun for quite some time. Even at 40%, I was able to get two bars on my phone, which certainly would allow for a number of emergency calls.

Service with a smile...

2010-06-28T09:06:00.009-05:00

Recently and while attending my son's wedding, I was so very astounded with the service provided during the reception dinner. Waiters marched in in exact numbers for each row, with a plate in each hand. Stopping behind each guest, servers delivered plates simultaneously on the elongated tables.

Such and elegant and stylish touch, I thought. No need to stall while others at the table wait to be served, as victuals becomes chilled or wilted. I understand this technique of service is referred to as "the wave".

I take tea, my dear...

2010-06-14T08:06:00.004-05:00

One drinks tea to forget the world's noise.

~Thomas Sterling~

Heart of the Country...

2010-06-11T14:03:00.006-05:00

Latest additions to the Ipod:

Heart of the Country Paul McCartney and Linda McCartney

Love you 'til the End The Pogues

Mal O Main Sanseverino

Here Comes the Sun Richie Havens

Gonna Get Along without You Now She & Him

Love & Happiness Al Green

On the Street Where You Love Willie Nelson

Forevermore Katie Herzig

Help Yourself Sad Paul Smith