The house in the roses

My friend

2012-01-31T19:44:00.029-07:00

I was acting a bit irritable the other day. Negative ions floated all around me as I kept complaining—the weather, the short days and long night; 8:00am and still dark outside; the lack of sunshine and energy… and oh, this heart monitor they have me wear because; really, my heart is been acting so crazy lately it’s a miracle I’m still standing. Pretty scary.

So, I decided I should shut off my mind to negativity—shoo pessimistic thoughts like you would shoo some pest birds off your precious garden. But how? How can one accomplish such a thing? Shutting off negative thoughts it surely is a hard thing to do. At least for me it is. It was then when all of a sudden the thought of a dear friend burst into my mind… like sparkles of magic it did, changing my mood instantly. Although I didn’t realize it then, I already had a smile in my face.

I decided I should go find my friend; text him, call him; write him a letter...

I was a little hesitant at first. I hadn’t seen my friend in such a long time. Perhaps he didn't want to see me now? Friendship comes so easily in summertime. When the garden is beautifully frocked with blossoms and the sky is so blue that when you lay on the grass and look at it you can’t really tell whether you are actually looking at the sky or maybe at an immense deep blue sea—those are the times when my friend and I have the strongest connection, and it is always here, in the garden, where we secretly meet.

But in winter time is another story. I kind of lose track of my dear friend in the winter. I don’t usually go out to the garden when is this cold and gloomy; but today I really needed to see him. So I went out to find him.

A little idea kept tugging at my heart strings as I was strolling around the garden—so disheveled and lonesome during this time of year. How could I let faith and hope put that spark back into my life? A little bit of that whimsy and magic?

It was then that I spotted the old stone I’d brought home with me a couple of summers ago from one of our summer outings. Such a heavy stone this was; and so uprooted to the ground, we almost gave up. I’m glad we didn’t and brought it home to our garden. And that is when I saw it... a most interesting thing; some sort of a note half way buried under a heap of dry leaves. A message? Like those strange message people sometime find along the seashore tucked in a bottle? I knew then that, the magic I was searching for was near...

I bent down, and took the paper. And what do you know... a message! A reminder. A love note if you may. Something to think about and to read as many times as needed be.

But wait… who left it there, you ask? My friend, of course. He tends to do things like that and probably had left it there that last time; knowing a forehand how much I was going to need it today.

I wanted to share this message with you. Please read it; make it yours. It’s a powerful message, but if you don't see it that way, at least take it as a practical messages for a better life.

Can you imagine? “a blessed home in myself where I can always always, go in and shut the door and kneel to my Father in secret and be at peace as in a sea of calmness, even when all around and about is trouble”… isn’t this fantastic! Magic and magical indeed I say!

When I pray, I know God would bring magical events into my life. All my dreams, my thoughts, my hopes, and my inspirations I have put in God’s magical hands. His enchanting presence is the most amazing thing I have ever experienced in my life and I know with total certainty that God will make sure those who earnestly seek Him are surrounded by His powerful magic; of love, protection, renovation and salvation.

It is real—this magic; you can feel it and people can see it in you too. They might just don’t know what it is, or what you get it from. But you know.

Whatever might be you situation today, please go to your “blessed home” and shut the door behind you and kneel before your Heavenly Father (my friend, and your friend too) in secret. Peace, as in a sea of calmness, will be yours; even when all around and about is trouble…

Be blessed.

SHOW OFF YOUR COTTAGE MONDAY

2012-01-28T17:46:00.020-07:00

I’m showing you around my kitchen and dinning room area today. I don’t have a big kitchen, and don't have a formal dinning room. Our dinning room is very small; in fact it's more like a breakfast nook; contiguous to the kitchen.

I’m always looking for a piece of furniture where I can store my daily china, glasses, and serve-ware in the dining room, but that’s not an option for now. Still, this is the place were we seem to gravitate towards to in our home; it is a happy place and thus, it is my favorite room of my house.

Everything here is the same; nothing new, but I do like to rearrange and move things around quite often to create fun vignettes and bring new interest.

Whenever possible, I like to use a lot of roses around my house; particularly in my kitchen and dinning room area; being freshly cut from my garden (my favorites), from the market, dried or silk roses, they’re heavenly; they bring so much joy into my life…

I like to use baskets in my decoration; particularly in the kitchen; they serve so well and keep everything handy and looking so pretty at the same time…

This is how my tabletop looks now… I'm always creating new tabletop vignettes. It makes me happy.

Etiquette for linky parties usually includes:

1) Link to a recent project post, and not a link to the front page of your blog, your Etsy store or a giveaway.

2) Link back to the host’s blog via a button or text link. This is a common courtesy, and it is usually appreciated if you link back in the same blog post that you are linking up.

More Tips

If you are really a go-getter, why not leave a nice comment for the blogger hosting the party each week? It’s a bit of work to set up and manage a regular linky party, so make sure your host knows that their efforts are appreciated, and that you are not just looking for some free promo.

Of old jars and roses...

2012-01-26T20:00:00.001-07:00

An old jar simply embellished with dried roses from the garden stands with the white dishes. It’s pretty enough with or without flowers as a tabletop display… but I can hardly wait to put a lovely display of purple Royal Amethyst roses in this jar.

Thinking of my garden in full bloom makes me happy. During our gloomy cold days I think a lot about my garden. Time spent inside with not much to do give me the option of making plans ahead of time to later accomplish all the things I want to see done in my favorite place. I think of unique garden art ideas and dream with unusual and whimsical decorating touches—a new birdbath amidst the red Knockout roses in that corner; a fun display of birdhouses in an assortment of colors and sizes in that empty space on the west side of the fence; perhaps another mirror on my garden wall. I love mirrors; they're a wonderful addition to your garden and can help add the illusion of more space and more flowers and plants. I also want a new arbor covered in grapevine in the center of the yard across from my kitchen window, where I would put a rustic table and hung an old chandelier.

Dreams dreams… but it’s not just all about dreaming around here. I make my dreams happen too! So, I have already started collecting and gathering some pretty things--things I've found during my treasure hunt through thrift stores, and I have already started embellishing a few jars.

I love old jars and vintage vases. I think that a table needs little more than a beautiful vase...

Right at the turn of the season last summer, I found this lovely vintage vase at a thrift store. I filled it up with the last of my roses and enjoy it for a few days. I can already imagine it filled with freshly cut roses when again everything will be smelling like pollen and dust and roses...

May you have a lovely weekend... and remember: “Life ends when you stop dreaming, hope ends when you stop believing, love ends when you stop caring, friendship ends when you stop sharing... so share this with whom ever you consider a friend.”

See you super soon!

Empanadas

2012-01-24T07:09:00.004-07:00

I'm not really an outdoorsy kind of person—least during the winter time. I’m quite content living in my garden; day and night, but that’s a different story during our long cold days. And it’s been so cold here lately—icy cold, with gray clouds during the day, and if it isn’t snowing; it’s raining. From blustery cold mornings to afternoon rain tickling the windows to cold nights accompanied by high winds... snow, wind, drizzling rain, sun for a moment, more wind and an occasionally glorious sky, then more rain... that’s how it’s been around here.

Thus, my favorite pastime these days has been curling up on the sofa with my favorite Romantic Country and Cottage Style books and magazines, my coffee and a few warm snuggly blankets.

Today is French Vanilla coffee in a teacup… I love it!

Do you prefer your coffee in a coffee mug or a teacup?

One of my favorite winter pastimes is baking… Can you imagine?—Inactivity and baking! Put both together and puff! ;)

So I’ve been wanting to bake some empanadas.

Almost every country in the world has some version of empanada or turnover; some kind of meat, poultry, fish, cheese, vegetable or combination thereof, wrapped up in a small packet of dough.

Empanadas are versatile and delicious, but the tastiness of your empanada will rise and fall on the quality of the dough.

Your guests may rave about the scrumptious fillings, but you’ll know the secret to a great empanada is the dough!

What do you like to do on cold winter days? Please do share, and keep yourself warm and cozy!

SHOW OFF YOUR COTTAGE MONDAY

2012-01-22T17:00:00.002-07:00

Nature is the most amazing place for color inspiration, since each season offers different and amazing color combinations. During the winter months it helps to take some inspiration from the winter landscape- white on white. While browsing the Internet the other day I was inspired by this lovely blog and home; which to me resembles the beauty of a lovely winter landscape: Dreams come true. Enjoy!

Last week was another fantastic party! Can't wait to see what you have been up to this week! Grab a Featured button on the right of my blog if you would like!

Please be courteous and follow blog etiquette… if you’re linking—link back to The house in the roses!

Happy Friday!

2012-01-19T23:27:00.008-07:00

Has it been snowing in your part of the world too? It snowed all day here yesterday; big fluffy flakes that soon covered trees and roofs and transported me to Narnia ;) It’s been real cold, but theses lovely images I found on the Internet have warm my heart… they bring so much joy, and I hope they’ll do the same for you…

May you have a wonderful weekend!

My little life

2012-01-17T19:27:00.010-07:00

It is exactly 5:04pm. Dinner is almost ready. I’m making garbanzo soup…

And I have noticed that outside my kitchen window is still daylight. This is good; this is very good. The sun’s arc has began growing longer and higher in the sky; which means, days are lengthening—we’re walking towards something marvelous, and in case I forget (I tend to do that often), I have discovered that all I have to do is hop over to my bloggy friend Kathy and be reminded that we are just about 63 days away from spring… yes, spring! And all these many words just to say that? Why do I go round and round words?—like a moth irrevocably drawn to a flame.

Yes, I love words; all those silent consonants, words that can either be interpreted in English while spoken in Spanish or Italian or French; words that came straight to English from Medieval Latin—go figure; and then there are long words, short words; pretty words; too complicated words and words that mean nothing, and when you use them you’re pretty much guaranteed to end all conversation and, most probably scare off a few readers from your blog as well ;) But your options are unlimited. Do I make sense? No sense at all? I understand ;)

We are expecting a cold front tonight; dropping to a chilly 17 degrees early tomorrow morning, the lowest temperatures of the new year thus far… Historically speaking, the period between January 10 and 20 brings more below-zero temperatures to our valley than any other time during the winter. I’m not looking forward to it—chilly temperatures that make your face so numbed you can’t hardly feel your nose is dripping… drip drip—winter bitter winter biting, but inside is very inviting! ;)

And I have visions of a cottage softly illuminated by the twinkling light of candles, a light snow is falling outside; a warm fire inside, the children are nestled all snug in their beds, heated blankets, wool socks and furry friends—visions of winter cozyness… you get the idea.

The wonderful smell of the aforementioned garbanzo soup is starting to draw my family to the kitchen… just in time for dinner, so I better be off now! But before I go I want to say THANK YOU for always always being here; for your comments and silent words; for being this immense part of my life and my little world. I thank YOU. Please feel the love floating away… your way.

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2012-01-15T17:30:00.013-07:00

Today I thought I’d show you my new dresser! OK, maybe there are definitely times when my sense of style goes a little bit over the top, and I’m thinking what was I thinking? Usually, I won’t bargain for a lot of color in my house, and prefer coming home to a serene environment of whites and muted colors, but when it comes to my ‘pink’ girly room all decorating excess are permissible. So here is my new and very colorful dresser!

I didn’t have to do a thing to this fun dresser as far as painting goes; I found it just the way you see it here. My concern that pictures and other accessories would drown in its bright colors was quickly dispelled as you can see here… in fact, the strong colors seem to provide a sharper background, as this painting shares a lot of the same colors with the dresser… So let there be color - loud, joyous, bold, bright color!! ;) Really, what do you think? Shall I re-paint my new dresser in white?

Some of you may remember my photo session with Miss Tesa a while ago in the pink room and, as Miss Tesa herself would say: “Guess what!” I’ve found myself another lovely model willing enough to pose for me! And here she is: Presenting the cutest and tiniest fairy in the house in the roses! The lovable (and very serious) Miss Averi! ;) I just love loooove this bundle of joy little cutie! ;)

Hello to you! And welcome to another "SHOW OFF YOUR COTTAGE MONDAY", a blog party I host at the beginning of each week to celebrate the things we love about our homes and how we live. If you're new here, thanks for stopping by and if you've visited before, thanks for returning!

Can't wait to see what you've been doing this week! Last week was another fantastic party! I am enjoying seeing all the creative ideas and projects you are sharing!

Rules: Link your post, not the main page of your blog. Please include a link to the party or the party's button in your post. Celebrate life and see how others celebrate theirs by visiting!

Fantasy

2012-01-12T20:00:00.003-07:00

Days without sunshine are boring; they lack charm and whimsy, and thus, I’m desperate for some good old fantasy... you know the type: From witches in enchanted forest to time-traveling magic doors and flying carpets to naughty elves and spooky trolls. But you see, one must have the right conditions... those magical moments when you are suddenly swirled up in the air in a flight of imagination and dreams and visions would come true can only happen on warm sunshiny days under a shower of petals...

Roses and sunshine can put a whimsical spark in you without a doubt!

Thus, I’ve decided if warm sunny days aren’t going to show up any soon around here, then I should take control of things. Ah yes, I’ll go find me a magical world, even on a cold dreary day like today…

So I run up to the attic and walked my way though a sundry jumble of boxes and things right to Arabella's magic box where I keep all the necessary paraphernalia for some delightful magical time…

Let’s see—pink shoes… where are my pink shoes? First thing first, you know! And where are my potions and spell bottles? I wonder if I might have left them outside to rot... That would be disastrous! You see, the spells kept in those bottles should not be released by the wrong hands...

Nor should they be exposed to inappropriate atmospheric conditions; least you want terrible things to happen... but don’t you worry; I’m sure they must be around here somewhere… Ah yes yes here they are!

These are my spell and ritual oils and potions, but the exquisite magical potion bottles are not. They're Arabella's bottles...

Bottles where she used to keep her very own powerful witch's spells. These spell bottles and many others I rather not show here; such as the Dragonfly's Flight and the Fire of Passion potion bottles were handcrafted and adorned by Arabella herself with lovely decorative gems and vibrant stones.

Now, I have my pink shoes on and I got the magical key in my hand... so, are you ready? Let’s go find the magical door!

By the way, have I ever told you the story of the doll that grew old in the attic?—pretty creepy! So maybe I should not bother telling you that story, in case you’ll get nightmares later.

Once, long long time ago, on that old tree stump you see over there in front of us, sat a very old woman. I didn’t have any idea who she was or where had she come from; but I could tell that she had found the best spot she could to watch the sunrise, and so there she sat, as in a reverie; looking at the most amazing sunrise you can imagine. Her worn staff was lying in the grass nearby, and her long white hair covered her shoulders down to her knees. A thick and very ancient looking book was lying closed on her lap. When the first rays of golden light broke across the horizon, enveloping the garden in the peaceful morning light, she smiled, opened he book, and began to read... but of course, that would be another story to tell, and we don’t have the time for that right now, right? We must hurry!

See it there?

Ah yes… it’s the time-traveling magical door and I’m going in! Coming?

Snow...

2012-01-10T21:00:00.003-07:00

Outside is cold and gloomy. Early this morning, curls of ghost-like fog unfurled and traveled the garden floor breathing in the austerity of winter... clouds dressed in dark gray covered the sky; then, tiny flurries buzzed the yard...

The larger flakes appeared and started to stick until finally a full-blown snow squall enveloped my world... I sat on the sofa and watched from the window wishing I had a cat to cuddle up with and share the enchantment of the moment.

It was like being in a snow-globe.

So magical...

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2012-01-08T16:44:00.005-07:00

Morning is my favorite time of day; breakfast is, by far, my favorite meal of the day and to say I love those glorious mornings when I get to stay home is an understatement...

I like to get up early in the morning while it is still dark, wander into my kitchen, light some candles and make some coffee…

...then, I can start thinking about breakfast. A creamy double cheese and onion quiche is 'perfeccion' for a perfect morning! ;)

And it’s so easy to prepare too!

The Crust – bake for 10 minutes at 450’F

1 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup light Olive Oil for a flakier crust, 1/4 cup cold water

The Egg Mixture:

3 eggs, 1 cup milk or buttermilk, 2 cups shredded cheese (I used triple Cheddar and Mozzarella), a pinch of salt, a dash of freshly ground pepper, basil and garlic, onion and red/green pepper: Sautee

Mix, pour into your crust and bake for 45 minutes at 325’F

(My husband loves a dash of ground basil on this mozzarella cheese)

Then I'm ready to begin my day and today it began with talking to you! I hope you enjoy this day too.

I wanted to say welcome new party goers as well as say thank you to every participant and party friends for taking the time to come over and share your wonderful links each week! You’re all such creative souls, and I’m always learning from you! THANKS SO MUCH!

Share your cottage love here, but remember: Link your post, not the main page of your blog and please include a link to the party or the party's button in your post. Celebrate life and see how others celebrate theirs by visiting!

Nice little things...

2012-01-06T20:10:00.010-07:00

I’m trying to concentrate in being happy with my surroundings… making my house comfortable and neat. Cleaning and changing sheets and making sure is lit up prettily. A dark house in winter can make you feel lethargic and miserable. I love the soft light of lamps and the tinkling lights that come from candles. So my spicy scented candles are always lighted… it is part of my rituals of winter. Sooo... I really am in love with decorating my house in my favorite romantic cottage style. These pretty pictures which I spotted in my picture file on my laptop today inspire me… enough that I just had to share them with you! I have oodles of photographs in my files, but I don’t think I’ve shown you these before, so enjoy!

...and of course I had to throw in one or two images of my garden; a happy reminder of what's soon to come!

Be Peaceful
Float Away and
Have a most beautiful weekend
my sweet friends!

Ramblings

2012-01-04T13:03:00.032-07:00

I’m living in some sorts of a dream; as if walking outside my body… do I really live here? Have I stumbled down the rabbit hole into some magical world? I’m I lost?

Of course, those are just words... words I have chosen to describe how I’m feeling these days; for I haven’t been my usual self lately. In fact, it is the customary at this time of year. Winter does that to you; and I require a drop of sunshine; warmth to comfort the soul and a little flower or two… and thus, it’s like walking through fog these days; feet slowly moving forward, arms and hands parting branches and shrubbery in coolness so deep, I shiver.

Walking the solitary garden is like walking the mystical landscape of poetry, and I’m unconsciously reminded of Ann Bronte and her soulful writings… and my heart is “like a sensitive plant that opens for a moment in the sunshine, but curls up and shrinks into itself at the slightest touch of the finger, or the lightest breath of wind”.

So I’ve bought me a red blouse to cheer me up. Generally I would not wear red. Red is not precisely my color, but it sets off balance in the whiteness and barrenness of winter. Red is definitely one of the colors of winter, and I should wear it more often. Tesa and I had so much fun last week at the mall trying on all sorts of pretty things. We laughed and shared secrets as we tried out the perfect lipstick shades and played games and even run a bit hand in hand through the isles when nobody was looking… We tried many a handsome hat too, but we thought these red ones looked supper cool on us!

So I’m in the garden now. And there’s a cold wind sweeping over the old roses, nature basks in the ices of January, but something larger than myself had pulled me out here… I needed to be here...

Daylight is but fleeting moments these days. I find this most distressing to the spirit. By mid-afternoon the special slant of grayish-yellowish light that comes only this time of year would settler over the tall grasses that grow along the old buildings across my office. As they take on a deeper amber hue I’m reminded that the day is almost over. It is a race against time then; a race against darkness, because I yearn to be in the garden; feel it, live in it; be delimited by it; and I know I wont be fulfilling that need for yet another day. It is hard leaving home when it’s dark and returning to it when it’s already dark.

Birds are fugitives of the landscape as well. Maybe they prefer to stay wrapped up indoors… wherever that might be? Bird feeders and food stations are brimming with all sorts of special goodness, but I haven’t seen a bird in weeks, and I have started to believe that maybe the menacing figure of this imposing owl that I so love, because it gives such a sense of peace and mystic to the winter garden, might have something to do with such an unfortunate occurrence... for I truly miss my little friends.

If there’s one thing I love about winter is the magic of birds; old and new feathered friends gathering in the center of the sleepy garden as it slowly awakes from the slumber of a wintry day with their joyful twirling ... Birds are such happy little souls… and I so miss them! I’m thinking maybe I should cheer up the garden with some silk roses—such pitiful contrast in the dead of winter…

I know, this might not work for the birds, but it certainly is putting a smile on my face… ;)

It is getting late and I must get in… magic swirls all around me and again, the sky seems to be on fire.

No drama; not the slightest alteration on any of these photographs; that is just how the sky was when I took them. Here in our valley we are blessed with the most magical and amazing sunsets during the cold months. Twilight is certain a magical time in winter; which by the way, if you want… if you really really want and try your best for a positive attitude, it can truly be a magical season. Yes, I’d have to remind myself of that often! ;)

Oh oh I almost forgot! I have a very interesting and strange tale of sorts to tell you, but that’s going to take me another full post, so I best share it with you next time… For now, I just want to say thank you for blessing me with your friendships and kind words all year through… If you are new here at The house in the roses, I’d like to say WELCOME! I truly hope you will find something here that inspires you. Please stay awhile, and take time to smell the roses! Well, maybe not now; but I'm sure you can wait until May! ;)

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2012-01-01T19:02:00.019-07:00

Ever since I can remember I’ve wanted a pink room—sleeping in a soothing bedroom in many shades of pink and a lighthearted jumble of patterns for a fresh twist sounds like sleeping in a cloud to me, so when our youngest child left our nest a few months ago I decided it was finally time… time to build me my perfect room! Of course, that means a room in my shabby cottage style love! So I mixed things around, used things I already had, and spruced up a bit with new Simply Shabby Chic bedding! My bedding is all from the Simply Shabby Chic line at Target. I still would like to try some wallpaper on one of the walls, or maybe paint the whole room in the faintest shade of pink… but for now those little changes have softened up the look of the room, and I just love it!

OK… I may think that this is my room, but it really doesn't belong to me... you see, a very special person has claimed ownership, and I'd totally and lovingly agreed! Introducing sweet Miss Tesa, the light of my life and princess of my heart, the fairest fairy of the house in the roses and according to her very own will, a future rock star! ;)

Thank you dear friends for a beautiful year! May you be blessed with health and happiness, and with the love of your family and friends in this New Year.

A mystical longing

2011-12-29T20:06:00.013-07:00

Seasons interwoven; the end of one, the beginning of another… and I am feeling a deep desire to be like numinous leaves, blown to that Primitive Garden—a place outside this place. The land of all beginnings.

As I walk the lonesome garden, its landscape becomes my soul; its wintry topography the country of my heart; bared and longing for the bountifulness of seeds and blooms. I am memorizing and treasuring precious memories; of gatherings at the old homestead these past few weeks; treasuring within my heart this yearning—this mystical longing as I see my children and the children of my children setting out on their journey back home.

This is the season of contrasts and thanksgiving, family times and gatherings, but also it is the season of parting and of deep loneliness for many people. It doesn’t matter how hard you hold onto the air you breathe, there is always an end to everything. And thus, I am back to the accustomed ways and my naked trees, gloomy days of the Old December and cold north winds. Can I choose barren simple beauty in a time of thoughtfulness?

At the moment I am caught between two sentiments—the beauty of silence and the reticent joy of clatter and family and the laughter of children and the embracing and whispering in tiny ears “I love you” . How do I choose one without rebuffing the other? Can I choose both? Because I need both.

Like the naked trees outside my window stands my soul before the world.

I know, this loneliness shall pass. I will feel better soon.

My girls

2011-12-25T19:49:00.016-07:00

Hello there! I just wanted to pop in real quick to let you know what I’ve been up to these past few days and share my joy with you…

(My real fairies: Dear Tesa and Averi with their Mima)

And, really, all I have to say for today is that I am thankful to God to no end for being able to share the magic of Christmas with all my children and grandchildren this year, but the one thing that really comes to mind is this... I believe! I believe in magic and holding onto your dreams. I believe in family and love and life, and I believe in the enchantment of memories and hope and giving and forgiving as we share our life with those around us…

Today, I am sending all the fairies in my neck of the woods your way—satchels filled to the brim with best of wishes for you and your families and a blessed and Happy New Year! Thank YOU for letting me share my life with you!

Happy New Year

Merry Christmas to all

2011-12-20T19:33:00.007-07:00

To all who come here:

May joy snow on you, and may the bells jingle happiness for you!

Happy, happy Christmas, that can win us back to the delusions of our childish days;
that can recall the pleasures of our youth;
that can transport the traveler, thousands of miles away,
back to their own fire-side and their quiet home!

~Charles Dickens

PS: I'm taking a brief blogging break. I'll be back soon after the Holidays. Merry Christmas my friends!

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-12-18T18:50:00.002-07:00

What elements define cottage style? Cottage style simply means a relaxed approach to living. The spirit of romanticism and invention; freedom to mix old and new and of course, a love of floral and… something else: Try soothing pink in a bedroom! Ah yes, one must have at least one little room to decorate in pink—in many shades of pink!

Rules: Link your post, not the main page of your blog. Please include a link to the party or the party's button in your post. Celebrate life and see how others celebrate theirs by visiting!

Things I love...

2011-12-15T19:34:00.015-07:00

I love the feel of clean wood floors under my feet and the smell of cleanliness… I love the dim light of lamps and I love the warmth and sense of belonging they provide as I go about my lamp-laden house in the roses... something about the ambiance of dim light just captivates me!

There is something almost magical about the feeling of linens and colorful vintage fabrics all nicely piled up...

I love to see my closets decorated with layer of mismatched bed linens nicely folded and piled up. All the colors, and all the patterns, and all the warmth, the changes of seasons and all the good times they represent.

I love to see photographs of beautifully constructed “crumply rumply” beds. I love the abundant layers and linen all beautifully rumpled and mushed, but when it comes to my house I would never leave an unmade bed...

...not even for the purpose of attaining that homey feeling you want to see on a cold rainy day. But that’s just me… ensuring every crinkle is smooth is like ensuring all my thoughts are in the proper place.

... I also like to see pretty linen laying around the house conspicuously. I love all the softness and pretty pastel colors, but moderation is my rule. Simply put, too much of a good thing is too much of a good thing... don't you agree?

I love lighting up candles in winter; vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, eggnog, pumpkin pie, apple spice, and pine tree scent are my favorite. There are so many wonderful scents of the season!

A bright yellow moon hangs in the night sky and a feeling of magic fills the air. Nights are cold—endless dark hours, but we’re warm and cozy under our Sherpa blanket. I am so blessed in so many ways.

May your evenings be warm and lanternlit, and may all your worries melt in the December sun.

This and that and some silliness

2011-12-13T20:30:00.002-07:00

I love that time of day when just for a fleeting moment night and day collide; when the slightest speck of light; dim, yet so indomitable, burst through the early gloom saturating the stillness. Shadows and light making brilliant specks on my dinning table; gold dust upon the earth—pre dawn; or early morning.

I have always been a morning child and even on those occasions when waking up early is not required, I still do. I would rather compromise a few hours of sleep, than miss the wee hours of morning to it. Are you like that too? Or are you more of a night person and prefer evenings?

The quiet house feels so peaceful in the early morning and requires only a print of sunshine for me to be carried away on the wings of floating dreams… If only I could capture the feeling in a bottle and savor it all day.

Memories of summer pasts echoes in the mind often; the face of a girl, warm rain and breezes; glittering sunlight on lush and green grasses wild with butterflies—my childhood days. Do you think of your childhood often? I live in the past a lot, and often find myself reliving past memories. I believe the past must be told or else it would be forever forgotten, alone with those with whom you shared it.

And then there’s that ‘other’ past that so intrigues me—the past I’d never lived, yet somehow it is there; somewhere in me. How many lives does one get to live? Wouldn’t it be nice if we can step back in time and live another life just for a little while? Sometimes I like to imagine I live in another era. I can see people of so many years ago, milling about. They’re dressed impeccably; the men in elegant coats and hats and the ladies in Edwardian petticoats and pristine gloves. The other day I wanted to turned myself into a woman of the past, so I grabbed a couple of my favorite scarves and run to my magical garden…

I closed my eyes and asked the fairies to please grant me my wish... there are numerous ways you can encourage the Fey to visit. Convince them of your sincerity; show enthusiasm for healing the planet and fairies will be glad to work with you, blessing you with their wisdom, laughter, joy and fairy magic too! And what do you know! They granted my wish!

I had so much fun walking into the Edwardian era! The only problem was women wore very tight corset and bodice; something I cannot and would not do... ever, never! How would I be able to breath, or move? Can you imagine the hour glass silhouette? Looser less fitted versions for me that's for sure! Guess I'd had been a peasant in my simple wide long skirts, if I lived in that era ;) What about you?

And did you know you can go back in time too? Yeap, through a computer program! ;) It's called “BeFunky”, and you can access it for free. Try antiquing your photographs by making them into some cool 'daguerreotype"... It’s so much fun!

And so this is winter. The days are short, every hour so fleeting I can barely stand it. By 3:50pm the slant of grayish yellowish light over the barren fields across from my office indicates me that the day is almost over. It is a race against time then; a race against darkness, because I so want to be able to get home and see my garden in daylight. I so miss it. It is hard to leave home when it’s dark and return to it when it’s already dark.

"Old times" never come back and I suppose it's just as well. What comes back is a new morning every day in the year, and that's better. George E. Woodberry

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-12-11T18:00:00.001-07:00

I love dishes. I have more dishes than I need. When I have company I like to use my white dishes. The simple clean cut of pristine white dishes makes food look and taste more appealing in my opinion. I love that I can add to them inexpensively and endlessly and still maintain continuity, but when it comes to dishes that truly make me happy I always chose my mismatched collection. Mismatched yes, ugly never!

Rules: Link your post, not the main page of your blog. Please include a link to the party or the party's button in your post. Celebrate life and see how others celebrate theirs by visiting!

Santa's little helpers

2011-12-09T18:47:00.006-07:00

What does it take to become an elf?

Other than the obvious requirement of being fascinated with the sparkling lights of the Christmas tree and brightly wrapped presents, there is a little test you must pass. All of the helpers at the North Pole must be under 4'9" and....

...be the proud friend of a furry thing with subtly pointed ears. Oh, and it's probably best that you look this good in your elf hat too! ;)

Love love love this sweet little munchkin!

Have a good weekend, dear friends. Thank you for being here. Stay cozy and be sure and enjoy some quiet time with your little elf, too.

Joy cometh in the morning

2011-12-06T17:35:00.011-07:00

Some kind of immense mischievous god with pockets packed with itty bitty stars walked the earth early this morning before anyone was awake. He left a twinkling miasma all over the garden’s floor. Common people call this frost, but I know they’re fallen stars from the pockets of God.

I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station,
through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in
~George Washington Carver

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-12-04T17:43:00.005-07:00

Now’s the time to find joy in the little things. Dash outdoors to count the seasons’ first snowflakes. Decorate your Christmas tree. Sip cocoa. Bake cookies. And breathe in the aromas of cinnamon and cloves and evergreen boughs. This is December at its best. Have you decorated your nest for the holidays yet? Need some ideas? Well, here is some inspiration from last year! Can't wait to see what you have this year! Enjoy!

Christmas tree from Kathy, at A Delightsome Life

Christmas tree from dear Gayla, at Oatmeal and Whimsy

Christmas tree from Wendy (doesn't have a blog).

Christmas tree from Kit, at A mountain life

Christmas tree from Paulette, at Summerland Cottage

Christmas tree from Ricki Jill

Christmas tree from Brenda, at Cozy little house Christmas tree from Sandra, at The veranda house

Christmas tree from Sheila, at Note Songs Christmas tree, from Cathy at Acorn hollow

And of course, I too had to show you around my house! We don't decorate much for Christmas and our tree is small, but we're never too grownup to feel a thrill as we light our small Christmas tree!

Can't wait to see what you've been doing this week! Last week was another fantastic party! I am enjoying seeing all the creative ideas and projects you are sharing!

Rules: Link your post, not the main page of your blog. Please include a link to the party or the party's button in your post. Celebrate life and see how others celebrate theirs by visiting!

Dusk

2011-12-02T20:00:00.011-07:00

Last evening before closing in for the day, I peeked outside my window to bid the day farewell as I always do. What I saw made me gasped… I grabbed my shawl and camera and run outside in a hurry.

The sun was low upon the horizon, a balmy air seeped through my hair as it murmured silent prayers, and the garden breathing solitude so pleasing seemed shrouded in mystery and boundless beautiful light.

Light coming down through big pinkish-blue clouds flickered and twinkled and gleamed among branches and shrubbery like little tiny fallen stars. Enchantment and magic swirled all around me; I could see it and feel it in my skin. The whole panorama made me feel as if someone bigger that the garden; and bigger than the world itself was standing upon the world spreading out some sorts of a silvery-silken veil of light with peacefulness and sultriness and slumber upon the earth and upon my garden. So strong was the magic.

Trees whispered and swayed in the mellow breezes of early winter; as if enchanted too. The garden must have been possessed—possessed under the spell of dusk; casting wispy lights and words written in every leaf and upon the wind, making shadows and light which ultimately shattered and gave way to another night.

Do you find dusk this captivating; so enchanting that your whole being pulls you out from whatever you are doing or wherever you are just so you can be part of it?

Each evening before I close my doors to another day I go out to the garden to bit my farewells to the fading day. A farewell is necessary before we can meet again… thus; I do that every day. It’s like a ritual; a celebration that I find most enchanting. I call it “the ceremony of enchantment”.

It is the enchanted hour of the day, and I love catching its magic; memorizing it, feeling it. Late sun... like the finale in a fireworks show. It dazzles and delights and gives the garden a certain magical glow.

May the wonderful magical swirls of dusk dance around you.

Snippets of my life...

2011-11-30T20:00:00.003-07:00

The nippy breezes of end of November have blown away the remainder of the golden leaves, but the ornamental pear is still wearing crimsoned tones—exquisite garments of silent kings and watchers of the garden. I am standing in the core of time; dancing amidst seasons and hoping that autumn will linger yet a little longer…

I’m craving the vivid colors of summer; the happy yellows of sunshiny days. So I have added some touches of yellow to the bedroom’s white palette.

…and I was remembering that a summer or two ago I had a pink cake with pink frosting on my table…

The thought of it has stirred in me the desire to bake—bake in the colors of summer pastels, although I know I should really be thinking of autumn and winter and pumpkin pies and breads and Christmas pecan pies, but I can't help it....

Are you the types that like to bake according to seasons and traditions?—like the usual apple pie in the summer and the pecan or chocolate-peppermint pie for Christmas? Or do you bake according to your heart’s content? I really don’t mind a pretty cake with cascades of yummy pink frosting on my Christmas table… weird, I know… but ever so lovely... like colorful tutus.

Cakes in pastels; like cotton candy pinks and sea foam greens and baby blues and the soft purples of fluff tulle tutus are on my mind…

Some of you had asked about our trip to Florida a few weeks ago… it was a special trip that I should add to my chest of most treasured memories, as we traveled with our daughter and her family to introduce little Averi to the rest of the gang…

I'm so madly in love with this incredibly adorable sweeter-than-sweet most divine dearest little darling... I am I am!!

…and spent precious time with mom and dad, and dear Lissette by the ocean and the rhythmic soothing sound of waves gently crashing against the shoreline—cherished precious moments that I wish I could gather with my hands; like jewels, and keep in some sorts of magical chest where they’d be kept safe for evermore.

The days are visibly shorter around here now. By the time I get home from work it is already dark and murky mornings are taking longer to awaken from their early winter slumber… I love this time of year and almost walk around the house in a silent reverie; thinking about life, thinking about how fortunate I am to be just where I am and be who I am… I move in some sorts of magical lethargy, turning a soothing light here, lighting some candles there, illuminating some shadowy corner of the house with dim lights of wee lamps. I like these early morning hours and the quietness that accompany them… they call for the strong Cuban coffee in my tiny yellow Cuban ceramic cups, and they call for some fluffy comfy pjs and reflective time in the settee out looking the sleepy garden.

Life might not be perfect but it is good. And I’m going down memory lane this evening through my collection of photographs… long after the flowers of spring and summer are gone, this garden is still blooming with treasured memories collected in snaps. I delight in going through them during the winter months when the weather keeps me inside and I get so impatient for the garden… a sweep of sweet Williams, roses, foxgloves, lupines and delphiniums marks memorable hours of passed delights as well as those to come… Oh do forgive me, I have so much to say; my soul is made out of words and I'm walking and dancing in languages and dialects made out of symbols and words… can I continue? ;)

Last evening I discovered a very interesting website and microblogging platform called Tumblr…have you heard about it before? Tumblr lets you effortlessly share anything. The interesting part is, people can post your photographs on their Tumblr page without your permission and you'll never get credit for it either. I almost fell over when I discovered the following photograph in at least 10 Tumblr blog with links to a number of unknown entities as the source; I even got a “Mrs. Robinson’s ghost” as source to this photographs... can you believe it? ;)

Well, I hope I haven't bored you... I promise I'll write less next time... for now, may you have the sweetest evening, and may you find your rainbow at the end of your dreams.

See you soon!

Life in the garden

2011-11-28T19:40:00.010-07:00

The dragonflies have all disappeared from the garden by now. And so have the fairies. As you may well know, fairies like to fly with the dragonflies since they look so much alike and won't be discovered by people who don't believe in them… but no dragonflies have been in sight lately; not since the first winds began to blow cold air; anointing the garden with white frost-like icing sugar… but there have been definite signs that they’ve been here… A month or so ago I spied some very mysterious dragonfly fluttering around in the most curious and marvelous of patterns. Were they really dragonflies? I wonder...

On that very same day the fairies left me a branch of pussy willow. I was delighted. Then a few weeks ago they brought a very mysterious looking cat with them. A very special fairy whispered his name in my ear the other night: “Watcher”—she said… “Watcher is his name because he watches out in the garden keeping you safe.”

Now, how sweet is that? I truly love the name, I do! Thank YOU! I also want to thank those of you who also suggested all sorts of awesome names for the kitty.

The garden looks so changed these days. From vivid greens it turned to colors of golds and reds to muted yellows and grays… seasons certainly have its way of making all sorts of changes in the anatomy of things; and it feels as if I’m walking upon another time and another garden; still lovely in its own right and stillness, but somewhat strange and faraway from my heart.

Yesterday I discovered a curious thing in the garden; left by the fairies I suppose… So they've been here after all. Do you have any idea what that might mean? A teacup hanging from a tree branch? A tea party with the fairies, perhaps? That sounds delightful, doesn't it.

I’m going to close my eyes and ask the fairies in my garden for something truly special… an owl!

Owls fascinate me. Have I already told you that? And have I told you how I often dream of seeing one up close in real life some day? Yeah—“in real life”, because in dreams I see them all the time… And every day and every night I would close my eyes and make a wish upon a dream—that there will be an owl waiting for me out there; in the garden.

Of course, it would have to be in my garden for the magic to transpire. Any other place would lessen enchantment. It would not be the same. So I go out to the garden every day at dusk and hope and wait for “La Lechuza” to make presence… As the wind come rustling through the lasts of russet leaves I listen to the tree’s songs; and listen to what amber leaves sweeping down from trees bring and to that what they have to tell me. And thus, slowly, magic unfolds…

I am sure I can hear the mystical hoo-hooing of the owl being carried out by evening breezes. And there… over there, I can even detect a shape flap onto a branch in the nearly dark at the end of the garden. A bird with human-like, forward facing eyes and presence so fascinating I’m almost drawn to my knees.

I often wonder where these feelings arise from being that the owl was the anathema of my childhood—the phantom that marred the peace of my nights. Folks in our little pueblo believed the owl was an ill-omened bird; they were not really owls, but some evil spirits contained in the form of an owl. Owls were the souls of the dead crossing the night sky; witches prowling the night carrying children off. How strange the way fear is conquered as we grow in soul and years. And how the owl now invites me to peer into the dark as they can and they give me courage to accept and come to love all that I find there...

I can’t really tell what it exactly is—awe, amazement, pure enchantment perhaps?… whatever it is, the owl represent so much… their peaceful energy, the mystery they posses; posing as quiet mediators between the material and spiritual worlds; hiding some inexplicable message known only to themselves and perhaps to the shadows that nurture them.

To be truthful, I believe my admiration for these birds comes from fear more than anything else. Fear attracts; it pulls you to face it; to conquer it whilst waiting and hoping. And maybe that’s what it all is? Even so, I’m still waiting and dreaming of the day I’d see this magnificent bird sweeping off the floors of the garden in a mythical and mysterious swooping of wigs. I cannot think of anything more special or magical.

Do you have any tale of your own you'd like to share? Any strange, funny or curious occurrences in your own enchanted gardens or world? Do share.

Wishing you a magical week, whether shimmering with stardust or just your glowing selves!

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-11-27T14:50:00.003-07:00

Welcome to "SHOW OFF YOUR COTTAGE MONDAY", a blog party I host at the beginning of each week to celebrate the things we love about our homes and how we live.

Few things appeal more to my senses than the vision of a country house surrounded by roses—the rustic life of the countryside, open spaces, fresh air, trees everywhere, birds singing, wildlife all around and stunning natural beauty. I often dream of leaving behind the hectic, fast-paced city life and escaping to a place where fresh breezes and clean air invigorate and refresh; a place where I can relax and enjoy each precious moment; a place where life is simpler, where I can hike at my leisure, pick berries for breakfast, or get up early to walk. Maybe I'll stay up late for a bonfire or to see the northern lights, and watch an eagle circle high above in the sky, or catch glimpses of the erratic flight of bats at dusk. Dreams…

So here are few of my favorite images of the country life…

(image source: first two photographs - Erase una casa, rest from Pinterest)

I wanted to say welcome new party goers as well as say thank you to all my party friends for taking the time to come over and share your wonderful links each week!

THANKS SO MUCH…

If you're linking, please link back to the house in the roses. Sharing with these lovely gals!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2011-11-24T12:59:00.007-07:00

We’re often so taken up with the affairs of the present that we hardly have time to give thanks for blessings of the past. On this Thanksgivings day my heart is overflowing with gratitude and thankfulness for precious moments shared with dear family these past few days in Florida… I am grateful and blessed by so much, by so many, by so little too… grateful for all the little things! There are way too many of these to count!

I must also give thanks for you—the spectators of my life, the friends, the companions of my days... May you all be blessed with all things good... AND

May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey plump,
May your potatoes and gravy
Have nary a lump.
May your yams be delicious
And your pies take the prize,
And may your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off your thighs!

~Author Unknown

HAPPY THANKSGIVINGS!

This and that and out for a few days...

2011-11-15T18:06:00.005-07:00

Have you noticed how I tend to change—how my style fluctuates with the changing of seasons? I have the tendency to get very literal and serious in the winter. Somehow my frame of mind does change. I’m more solemn in the winter than in any other time of year; incline to the somber if you may, less frivolous perhaps… daydreaming turns as cold as the weather would turn and you’d hear me talking about creepy things like death and funeral songs hanging from trees… really creepy indeed! ;) I guess it’s the chill in the air—it plays tricks with my moods… and I don’t like it… I just don’t like it a bit!

If there is one thing I really miss in the winter time is summer silliness—the natural childishness that springs forth when warm weather appears and the sun is out and balmy summer breezes would wrap you up in a magical spiral of butterflies and dreams and joy… when warm sunlight goes straight through my heart and deep into my soul… it’s absolutely delicious.

My philosophy is that it's okay to grow old, but don't ever grow up completely. Having a bit of the 'inner child' is a good thing. You can keep a light and happy perspective on things. Old of body, but always young of mind—I like to maintain the balance... it's a nice place, and I share it with every creature in my garden…

Talking of gardens… that reminds me that fairies arrive while you sleep to plant ideas in your imagination… when morning comes they would run to hide in the trees, but you can always find your fairies there—in your garden. I hope you do believe me because seeing the world through the wondrous eyes of children would certainly awaken the magic that lives in the present moment. Try believing with a child’s heart and you’ll know what I mean! That, and skipping, and hopping and bouncing. Yes, and dancing as if nobody is watching... and what that means is, put your fears of growing old aside and rejoice in the fact that we can finally be ourselves and not give a darn what anyone else thinks. Freedom… there’s certainly freedom there! ;)

Freedom to wear just what you want… even if this means the most ridiculous of things—like my new leopard print tights more like ‘leprosy’ tights than ‘leopard’ because I do look I have some type of skin disease-like leprosy…. OK, maybe there are definitely times when my sense of style goes a little bit over the top… what was I thinking?

So I’ll opt for some zebra print tights… I have to admit I really really love these tights… I would wear them anywhere; even to the office!

Children have neither past nor future; they enjoy the present, which very few of us do. Thus… I want to get in touch with my inner child on a daily basis, never lose my zest for life, live the present, dress up, get silly, go to the garden and talk to flowers and trees, give new names to neighborly cats in my garden… (One of my favorite pastimes ever by the way) like that cat “Morning” that showed up here ever so mysteriously last year, or that other one “Feelings”… I usually name these feline friends in accordance to their personalities; which are so different from each other—like day and night… “Morning” the cat used to show up in my garden in the wee hours of morning, and thus the name, and with “Feelings” the cat, I had this feeling Feelings could read my mind and interpret my feelings… ;) I haven't decided what to name this little guy here yet... he looks kind of ghostly to me, and not too friendly, so I haven’t come up with a name yet… any suggestion?

I’m so happy you decided to stop by… I always get this giddy feeling whenever I see you smelling the roses, or catching rainbows while on your strolls through the gardens… have I told you lately how very special you all are to me—because YOU are! So I’m brewing some Fairytale tea tonight... I hope you can stay. And I hope you like my tea… Fairytale teas are my favorite… this blend of enchanting herbs would put you in the mood for strange stories and lovely fairytales. It’s a subtly intricate tea and I just love the deeply floral aroma and lovely ruby color. A favorite tea for sipping while in the garden or walking amongst the trees... tuning us into the subtle presence of the magic of the natural world. I’m just going to set a little tea party outside, in case you decide to come by…

You see, I will be out for a few days—perhaps a week or so… so if you happen to stumble upon my door on your way to whatever corner of the world you’re headed to, make sure you pause for a moment, smell the roses and have some tea!

See you then!

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-11-13T15:27:00.018-07:00

Comfort, the beauty of imperfection, the allure of time-worm objects, and the appeal of simple, practical living: Shabby Chic! And I love it all! So here is some shabby chic love!

(source Creative Mint)

Rules: Link your post, not the main page of your blog. Please include a link to the party or the party's button in your post. Celebrate life and see how others celebrate theirs by visiting!

Of gardens and cats and some more

2011-11-10T19:19:00.011-07:00

I want a cat… every autumn is the same; I look at the solitary garden and think of a cat. Gardens and cats go together; especially in autumn. Autumn is such a dreamy season… and then again, there is something about the presence of a cat in a garden… a wistful feeling—gardens and cats; certainly some sorts of quixotic mingling.

Then yesterday, in the garden… magic unfolded. Some mysterious kind of friend came to visit…

I should be very careful with what I wish to see in my garden… ah yes, it never fails; wishes are almost always granted here…

Cats are such mystical creatures... I can tell there’s more going in his mind than I'm aware of... I’m so enthralled by these graceful creatures…

And thus, I’ve been staring out the window a lot these days; cozying up in the warmth of the insides while standing silently by the window looking at the quiet garden…

Lemon grass, sweetgrass and sleepy Jacob’s Ladder, cat thyme, pansies and heaps of dried leaves unite; they blend and come together as Nature gently puts them to sleep.

And the wind in the trees is chanting a sad hymn; it bewitches me and brings to mind dying and death. I shiver as I listen to this song; each stanza suggesting finitude; it’s the song inherent to autumn… the year is slowly dying.

I’m also thinking of life. My thoughts are thick; falling fast from some parts of my brain like autumn leaves on trees. This sense of depletion, of things coming to an end goes beyond the metaphorical death. Autumn’s chant is my own requiem; it is yours, it is ultimately humanity’s funeral song.

The mind in kinsmanship with the Natural world has learned; however, that there are no closing states in Nature. All that lives must die, and yet the promise of tomorrow's life is contained in the seeds of today's death… this thought offers yet another verdict; the mundane fuses with the spiritual—the essential God-Creator arises in the conscientious soul; an ever ingenerable and imperishable God… fear perishes in this hope…

Death is not eternal.

PS: You can read more of my articles Here.

My life...

2011-11-08T18:00:00.008-07:00

The days are changing so fast around here; from one day to the next, it almost feels as if I had just woken up from a long sleep. It’s all to do with weather conditions. Climate has a magical wand in his hands and he uses it as he wishes; or so it seems.

It always amazes me this power Nature has to change things from one day to the next; and how leaves turn from plain green to vivid colors of gold and red from one hour to the other…

Only yesterday the garden was alive with heaps of freshly fallen leaves; like heaps of gold scattered under trees and grasses still so green and lush with moisture it made you want to walk on it and even dream on such downy greenery.

Then overnight came frost; tiptoeing the night it came… slowly, it crawled and crept into the garden making all sorts of changes in the anatomy of things.

By morning came the winds—cold and bitter. They huffed and they puffed all day long making trees and bushes to shake and drop all remaining foliage. It rained rivers of leaves all day; golden and crimson rivers of leaves swirled around making little spiraling currents like whirlpools. When I came home after work the back porch was filled with hundreds of leaves; large wrinkled leaves from the big grapevine covering it. And the fresh yellow small leaves from the two cherry trees upfront were stiff and dried; most of them gone in the wings of winds. The garden looked deserted and stingy without the leaves on the trees, and all the empty spaces. It was as if I was looking at some other trees and shrubs and some other garden; unkempt and shabbily chic.

So last evening I put in the trash the last of my summer roses—dull and spent, but still offering a last whiff of perfume. It was heartbreaking to think that I will not see these roses again for the next following seven months. Roses from my garden—how magical this sounds to me.

The grapes are going down fast too...

We’ve been juicing daily; being so healthy that it’s almost ridiculous. This juice alone is packed with carrots, beets, celery, spinach and apples for some sweetness. It has helped the amount of grapes we have had on hand—grapes from our organic garden so ripe and delicious...

There's still so much grapes out there, but it is already way too cold for me to collect...

I'm leaving the rest to the birds...

Another chapter of my life in the garden is closing; until the wheels of time would turn again to yet another year of delight in this little plot I call my heavens. As the outdoors grow colder, the indoors will be my hearth and heart and the cave where to weave new dreams and treasure every memory… and how dear these thoughts are to me.

(Before I say goodbye and close the garden gate)

That old April yearning
Once more is returning
And I have a longing to wander.
The leaves may be falling,
But April is calling
And the prim roses beckon me yonder.
For one more walk around the garden
One more memory I can dream upon
Until I dream no more.
For one more time perhaps the dawn will wait
And one more prayer it's not too late
To gather one more rose
Before I say goodbye and close the garden gate.

(SARAH BRIGHTMAN)

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-11-06T18:00:00.005-07:00

I saw a lot of food being display in our last Show Off Your Cottage Monday, and got inspired to bake. The weather called for some warm out of the oven yumminess, so I decided to whipped up my own version of a perfectly delicious chocolate zucchini bread.

Have you ever tried making chocolate zucchini bread? If you are into health or following a diet, HERE is a recipe you're going to love; 50% less fat, 21% fewer calories and 2g more fiber than the original recipe... just add a pinch of cocoa and voila! Then, I set up a pretty 'romantic' table by our bedroom window and got ready to enjoy the bread while enjoying the view outside....

It was super fun to check all the recipes in our last Show Off Your Cottage Monday and see all the yummy looking photographs... here's a review!

A Halloween mummy-head loaf of bread that was stuffed with meat and cheese! From Our Country Bungalow

Mouth watering Nutella croissants from Homemade on a dime - Have to try this one!

A mouth watering butterflied leg of lamb! Wow From Desire Empire

Homemade Oreos, from Simcoe Street

And some yummy and nutritional Zuchinni Chocolate Chip Cookies... from Hope in every season

If you were featured here, please feel free to grab the

"I was Featured" button here:

I wanted to say welcome new party goers

as well as say thank you to all my party friends for taking the time to come over and share your wonderful links each week!

THANKS SO MUCH!

Sharing with these lovely gals!

Home

2011-11-03T07:17:00.020-06:00

Winter winds are reaching their icy hands and crawling into my room upstairs. Winds are carrying secrets; with them, thousand crimson yellow orange leaves swirl and twirl around everywhere… it’s pure enchantment.

The garden has been put to sleep for another season. Bushes have been pruned, annuals discarded and clay pots have been brought in. October’s brilliant warming sunlight has faded away and the November days are gray and chilly for the most part. Nebulous winter mornings have cloaked the valley and there’s this mysterious feeling to the garden—a lonesomeness that repels and fascinates at the same time… Every season has its own appeal; its own magic to bequest.

October and November bring magic to the home. The feeling of warmth and home. The familiar ambience; opaque and hushed in the wee hours of early morning. A hot cup of coffee in the russet garden. Pumpkin bread and spices. Reading (hubby) Writing (me). Peace. Love. Children and grandchildren. Life is a gift. Every minute of it.

A few of the last summer roses are still in their vases around the house…

This is how my dining table has looked for the last week and a half… I found this small white vase at a thrift store and decided I should keep it. It’s now part of my growing collection of white vases. I love it!

After I gave it a good wash I filled it up with the last of the Trumpeter roses. Love the contrast between the deep red and pure white… The roses are still looking so pretty.

The climate here in our valley is so dry all year around, that roses seem to last forever... I usually just leave them sitting in their water, in their container and they dry perfectly. No need for hair sprays or a few days in a dark room to dry either. They would slowly dry and still retain their vivid colors and forms.

Light possess such enchanting quality this time of year… it is a different light; muted, and dappled in this vagueness and mystery that I just love. I love how it plays games with shadows on my big square dining table.

Do you love your home? Ah yes, "there's no place more delightful than one's own fireside" (Cisero)

SHOW OFF YOUR COTTAGE MONDAY

2011-10-30T15:54:00.014-06:00

Pink and white... my favorite colors...

Welcome to "SHOW OFF YOUR COTTAGE MONDAY", a blog party I host at the beginning of each week to celebrate the things we love about our homes and how we live.

I wanted to say welcome new party goers as well as say thank you to all my party friends for taking the time to come over and share your wonderful links each week!

THANKS SO MUCH…

Sharing with these lovely gals!

Halloween Party 2011

2011-10-26T22:27:00.006-06:00

Sometimes, when stars are twinkling and a new moon shines, there come times when folks are taken to another world by enchanted creatures... Ah yes, I’m certain of this because last night as I was getting ready to put on my nighties and go to bed, the strangest of things happened... I heard a whisper; the sound of little feet scurrying around, and when I looked about the room something truly magical caught my breath away…

Ah yes my friends, the room was aglow! Aglow with the light of some sorts of magical beings; mysterious and cerulean in color... like little wings in flight; like lighting bugs making twinkling stars on walls, on the floors on the roof and all around me!

Perplexed by this, I decided to follow these strange lights; which by the way, took me straight to the garden.

Helped by a round silvery moon, I was finally able to figure out the mystery… they were fairies!—night fairies not much bigger than a firefly with wings the color of sapphire and indigo.

These tiny creatures were extremely agile; they kept flapping their tiny wings around me; hovering all over the garden in almost any direction, including upside down and backwards, and with movement so fast that they looked like a blur to my eyes...

They were certainly trying to tell me something... or show me something, that’s for sure!

When the little fairies understood I knew their intentions, they flew ahead of me towards the back of the garden; over to the hedge where the tall trees stand like ghost amidst the shadows talking strange things between them in some strange language.

That’s when I saw it… amidst the bushes and tall trees—the magic door!!

Yes, I knew that’s where the magic door was… it had always been there. But why would the night fairies bring me here… now, at this time of night?

I hadn’t been to these parts of the garden in a long time. You see, I had lost the magic key to the magic door many a moons ago. Not being able to access the magic door that takes me to mysterious and enchanted worlds, I had stopped coming here. But now the night fairies were trying to tell me something... “Look there”—they seem to be saying. And so I did…

Parting bushes and shrubbery so thick and tight together you would almost thought you were opening yet another door, I was finally able to step onto the back side of the garden… and what do you know! The key! The magic key!

It had been such a long time since I last seen it that it took me a while to realize how lucky I was to have found it. Indeed, the key looked old and scrubby, but still was the magic key!

Did I go visit some interesting and bizarre world through the magic door? At that time of night? You bet I did! You wouldn’t think I could’ve waited till morning, would you? I was way too excited to wait until morning! Besides, earlier that day I was made known by the fairies of some very special celebration going on in some far away land I didn't want to miss...

A yes, a gathering of witches, in some distant land... shadows of a thousand years rise again unseen, voices whisper in the trees, shadows are moving, it's that time of year again, when the veil between the seen and unseen is lifted, and alluring darkness takes it's place. When magic fills the air and mystery enters...

Would you like to come with me and see what the witches are doing? Yes? OK then… through the magic door we go, through the trees into the woods…

I’ll walk, but you can fly, hop, or swing if you want over to the place of the witches and visit. I will be stopping by to visit as many as I can this week!

Have fun imagining and creating! And a Happy Halloween to you!

The visit

2011-10-24T21:30:00.007-06:00

The witches have been visiting the house in the roses… in disguise, of course. Have I told you that already? Oh I think so, but just in case you didn’t hear the full story, you can click here and read all about it.

Yes, they’ve been here—the witches. The other day while I was outside enjoying the most lovely autumnal afternoon I happened to see them again—not just one, but an entire flock of witches… yes sir!

They landed without a sound right on top of my neighbor’s house; on their roof, just across from my garden where I was sitting on the settee drinking a nice hot cup of chocolate...

I froze up—my cup of chocolate half way to my mouth… slowly, very slowly as not to make the slightest sound, I put the cup down on the table and remained very still; no sound, eyes fixated on my neighbor’s roof…

The witches' eerie, whistling call resonated throughout the garden... it sounded truly enchanting to me, I must confess. I’m sure the very wicked witch of the West would had turn green with jealousy if she had seen the lovely witchy outfit they had on, and they all wore the most peculiar witch’s hat… with a topknot that looked like a crest of feathers… I’m sure their intention was not to stay, or maybe some of them did, because I saw them talking among themselves, as if discussing something very important. They all must have arrived at an agreeable conclusion I’m sure, because just as unpredictably and out of nowhere as they came, they took position and flew away…

Luckily for me, I was able to snap some photographs before they flew away… now let me ask you: Have you seen this (or a similar) covey of witches around your neighborhood; perhaps in your own garden? Oh I so want to see them come back here again!

Here’s a pic of when they landed… blurry

Some more blurry pic taken by a shaky hand… you must understand, I was really excited! ;)

Getting better

And finally, I was able to capture a somewhat perfect picture of the witches just moments before they flew away...

Don’t worry… I’m not losing touch with reality… at least not yet ;) Reality leaves a lot to the imagination, me thinks… if you put a fantasist and a writer together, this is what you get! ;) I can only hope you enjoy reading my silly stories as much as I enjoy writing them. See you super soon!

I don’t have enough words to describe October and the thrill it evokes in me... Magical October! To me, the most delightfully enchanting month of all...

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-10-23T15:53:00.001-06:00

I clipped the last of the roses this evening. I like to think of roses in early autumn as jewels in the necklace of some tired giant—the somnolent garden. I’m going to miss my roses; miss seeing them around my house embellishing rooms and kitchen in pretty vases and simple jars… they give so much joy. But at least I’d be able can catch a glimpse of them through my old photographs. They will serve as a memory during the long winter days… a memory of lovely summer days and a reminder that I will enjoy them again.

Rules: Link your post, not the main page of your blog. Please include a link to the party or the party's button in your post. Celebrate life and see how others celebrate theirs by visiting!

The mingling of seasons

2011-10-21T19:18:00.010-06:00

The longer nights, the days breaking long after the first songs of birds; and in the air this nippy crispiness reminiscent of bare trees, leaves the color red amber brown yellow orange, bonfires and tawny skies. It is indubitable—autumn has arrived. Yet, to my amazement, some roses are still clinging on bushes; making the air extra sweet and the garden looking strange and captivating under this spellbound combination of crimsoned colors and petals.

Does it happen to you too? I mean, are you enchanted by this mystery too? Because, I’m sure it’s a mystery—this encountering and mingling of seasons, one trailing after the other, almost tumbling upon each other; holding hands; softly kissing at the bend of some lethargic garden, as one fades into nothingness while the other establishes itself in everything there is to see and touch and smell and feel. Like the passing of the torch in some sorts of a magical game.

I find it enthralling—this fleeting transition from summer to autumn. Environment changes during winter-spring transition hold less of a fascination to me than changes going on during this time of year. My sense of wonder increases and there is this tingle of magic and astonishment…

But time it’s so fleeting; like water in the palm of my hand it cannot be retained. Nature exudes changes; Nature undresses herself to enchant us again under new garments. The transformation is almost instantaneous—it seems. Changes happen almost unnoticed from one day to the next, and if you are not paying close attention to the magic unfolding around you, you’ll miss it…

Look around you, open your eyes—really open them. Pay attention to your surroundings. It’s marvelous what you can see when you open your eyes….

"Each one is a gift, no doubt, mysteriously placed in your waking hand or set upon your forehead, moments before you open your eyes…" William Collins

This and that...

2011-10-18T18:59:00.019-06:00

Last night at midnight, I was up reading a book when suddenly I heard a strange rustling noise outside my window. I closed the book and waited very quietly; attentively to every noise outside the window, but all the sounds were the usual sounds and every shadow the usual shadow. Not too long after that the same noise again; I was sure I heard footsteps outside my window this time. Quietly, I peeked outside and what I saw made me gasp… A silhouette walking away from the window!! Ah yes, I’m sure someone was there… and I’m almost certain who was it too!

Is the Candy Witch coming to your house this year? Have you seen her wandering around in your neighborhood already? Oh, I hope you get all your Halloween candies soon! Witches are already desperate for sweets I can tell! Ah yes, we best be secretly on the lookout for witches, even as we pretend not to believe in them! ;)

The nights are getting really cool around here. I hadn't realized how cool until we decided to sleep in our favorite guess room on the second floor last night and almost froze to death… so I’ve been fluffing up the nest before the long winter with new covers and beddings.

I must say. My bed feels soft and floppy. The colors are very fresh and I love the cottage feel to it; it’s like sleeping in a patch of vintage roses in a charming English country garden. I don't much like muddy, earthy colors for my beddings. I like different shades of pale pink together. There are so many shades of pink, and they all look beautiful together, to me.

Twilight is coming earlier to the back yard these days...

It's very obvious. Fall is in the air.

Sometimes, when stars are twinkling and a new moon shines, there come times when folks are taken to another world by enchanted creatures... Ah yes, I’m certain of this because last night as I was getting ready to put on my nighties and go to bed, the strangest of things happened... I heard a whisper; the sound of little feet scurrying around... I saw the dimmed cerulean light of little wings in flight, and decided to follow it...

Oh but wait! Would you like to hear more? I don't have time to finish the story tonight, but if you'd like to read more, you can check out my e-book, Hollow Woods by clicking on the image below! For those of you who have already bought the book, you're welcome to download the new version now available… as I'm continuously adding new stories to it!

May the wonderful magical swirls of fall dance around you.

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-10-16T16:55:00.003-06:00

I love to entertain, and especially love the process of putting together a pretty tablescape… In the summer, we stay outside as much as possible, and that means we eat outside a good bit, too. But summer has come to an end around here… so, as I bid adieu to summer and summer settings, I like to go through my old photographs and look at all my pretty table settings; they’d serve as a memory… a memory of lovely summer days spent in the garden with family and friends, and a reminder that we will do that again…

Can't wait to see what you've been doing this week! Last week was another fantastic party! I am enjoying seeing all the creative ideas and projects you are sharing! Here are a few for this week’s review... you are amazing and I wish I could review each and every one of your blogs, but at least here are a few:

An Old Block House shared some very creative Pumpkin Patch for fall color: Aren't these ever so pretty!

My heart's song shared a romantic table for two; love it!

Rustic Art shared some fantastic chandelier transformation!

Ashtree Cottage shared a lovely garden nook to welcome Fall!

THANKS SO MUCH!

Rules: Link your post, not the main page of your blog. Please include a link to the party or the party's button in your post. Celebrate life and see how others celebrate theirs by visiting!

Autumn mood

2011-10-15T19:35:00.006-06:00

As fall begins, the days become shorter and the weather starts to change. These changes affect our disposition... in a good way! Fall weather puts me into a baking mood, into a coffee mood during early chilly mornings, and in the harvesting mode; but particularly into the babysitting disposition! That's my favorite mood lately! I'm so utterly in love; so enjoying this incredibly adorable sweeter-than-sweet most divine dearest little darling! ;) Love... I'm in love!

Home after work

2011-10-13T18:54:00.013-06:00

I made arroz con leche right after I got home today. I like to eat my arroz con leche right off the stove; hot and with a pinch of cinnamon on top. I then like to go to my back porch and sit on the settee out-looking the garden while I eat this smooth creaminess that is very warming and delicious.

This afternoon it was truly lovely out there… sweetness in my lips and the early evening softly speaking in my ears—peace and a wonderful feeling of thanksgiving and praise in my heart…. That’s what those delicious autumnal days instill in me naturally…

And then, as I was sitting out there, in my settee under the grapevine, a gift came to me atop the gentle breezes… the music of a flute being softly played coming from somewhere beyond the garden’s gate; perhaps a child or a youngster practicing his partitures? Delicious sounds, delicious autumnal evenings in a quieted sea of a garden that, much like me, remains enchanted under the spell of autumn…

And speaking of grapes… we have so many grapes this year...

Sweet seedless grapes that we’ve shared with neighbors and co-workers and use much in our daily juices…

I love my house at this time of day when I’m the first one to arrive and it is all mine; and it feels so peaceful; shadows and light play magical games in every room and there’s the wonderful smell of food being prepared. Outside my kitchen window, I see birds at the bird feeder engage in magical conversations, the sun starts its slow descend in the horizon…

Another day... one more prayer of thanksgivings.

Peace be with you and to all who enter your home.

Jack and the Beanstalk

2011-10-11T19:10:00.026-06:00

Back in May, my friend Christina gave me a 2” pot of some sorts of a runner bean for Mother’s Day… “A Jack and the Beanstalk vine”—she said.

As you would imagine, I was static with joy the moment I heard the name! A magic bean vine, how excited!! Remember the story? You know how it goes: “As Jack slept, the beans germinated in the soil, and by morning a gigantic beanstalk grew in their place. When Jack saw the huge beanstalk, he immediately decided to climb it. He arrived in a land high up in the clouds that happened to be the home of a giant. When he broke into the giant's castle, the giant quickly sensed a human was near...” Remember now? A childhood favorite without a doubt!

Aside from its name and what I assumed it must connoted, I knew nothing about this little plant, or about its growing habits, or what I was expected to see. So I decided I should plant it right outside my kitchen window so I could watch it grow... maybe, if I was lucky enough, one day I would see Jack climbing it?

At the feet of my magic beans I spread some Morning Glory seeds... then I sat down and waited. And what do you know... Puff! My dinning room window got covered in just a matter of weeks...

This little vine can grow so tall and it is such a vigorous little creeper! It truly amazes me. This is what my magic been vine is looking like now at the end of the summer...

This is the lovely view I get to see every day... looking out from inside.

And in from the outside. I love how the vine has practically covered the entire window... if it was for me I would live in a tree, but I would do just fine in a vine-covered house. Wouldn’t that be grand? Oh wait, who's that cooking inside? Is that Jack?

I love this vine. I love how it offers a lovely curtain for my kitchen window... in greens speckled in orange and deep purples... truly beautiful!

What's growing in your garden? Better yet, what are you harvesting from your garden? Fall is such an incredible time of the year with the harvest of vegetables and fruits... Along with these tasks, baking, cozying up our nests for the cold days ahead, and all in all a cheer within, impossible to describe… that’s fall indeed!

May the Spirit of Fall bless your home and all who reside within.

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-10-09T19:35:00.008-06:00

Welcome to "SHOW OFF YOUR COTTAGE MONDAY", a blog party I host at the beginning of each week to celebrate the things we love about our homes and how we live.

A little nook to relax, read, dream and just be me....

Set the table with pretty things; just your favorite things... books, candles, napkins, crystal, flowers... whatever makes you happy and you're heart desires... ;)

Create dimmed lighting for your special room… I love using candles on pretty candle holders…

And the most important thing of all: Turn off the television, computers, and other distractions and just enjoy a quiet moment by yourself!

I wanted to say welcome new party goers as well as say thank you to all my party friends for taking the time to come over and share your wonderful links each week!

THANKS SO MUCH!

Sharing with these lovely gals!

Found and lost

2011-10-07T20:35:00.017-06:00

The rain makes still pools on the sidewalk

The rain makes running pools in the gutter

The rain plays a little sleep song on our roof at night

And I love the rain

(Langston Hughes)

Yes… I love rain, and I’m glad rain has arrived to soothe our summer-dried little parcel of land, but something else has come along with it… with rain winter has come; without any warning it came—scarves and big puffy socks, boots, frosty breezes twisting and turning whispering in my ears, red nose and watery eyes. And thus, it is official: Summer is over.

I’m collecting memories and a few last petals from the garden’s floor, and I am filling vases with the last droopy roses...

Speaking of roses and vases—I made a huge mistake this week. I’ve been dreaming with a true blue vintage mason jar for months and had searched for one in every thrift store you can image. Finally, I found the loveliest of blue jar this past Monday. I immediately filled it up with pink roses and took it with me to work the following morning. The wife of one of my bosses (I have 4) had surgery and I wanted to cheer her up with roses from my garden… I didn’t intended my new jar to be ‘part’ of the gift, though. I’m so used to sharing my roses with neighbors and co-workers, but I always get my pretty vases back. My boss’s wife was very appreciative, and she made sure her husband thank me for the lovely roses and ‘truly gorgeous jar’… ouch! Anyway, I lost my blue jar, and didn’t even get to enjoy it a bit. Let go… let go my heart let go... shhhh.

(image from Pinterest)

My dear friend Sandra is going through some real tough time… on a recent email she mentioned how sometimes she makes imaginary trips into my garden, just to be among the roses. Somehow these dreams make her feel better; and there we are chatting the afternoon away under the spell of a cup of tea; taking in all that is around; the sights, the smells, the music of the birds; sunshine in our faces… I wish with all my heart that her dreams would come true one day... we live miles away from each other, but maybe if I dream the same dream some how we’ll make it happen? I know that there are fairies spreading fairy dust in all sorts of venues, even in dreams. So I’m setting up a little spot in my garden for tea with my dear friend Sandra, even if it could only be in dreams....

Be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars. In the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.

Here comes the rain again

2011-10-04T19:33:00.026-06:00

The boot season is here—rain has returned. The sky, laden with moisture, suddenly turned dark and smooth, as if someone had spread a monochrome veil across the expansion, suggesting the impression of a deep, immense sea above my head...

Ramshackle clouds outshined the afternoon light—heavy gray, a sleepy giant plopping shadows, strange curtain-like sheets of mist. Does the sky seem angry to you when it rains? It blooms and it sings to me... I can't exactly explain why, but rain gives me this exhilarating feeling; of joy and expectancy, as if something good would be about to happen… rain makes my heart go romantic. The feeling is inexplicably beautiful.

Rainy days bring in me a desire to bake and to connect with my inner self and gather rain-kissed roses under cool light showers...

Rain draws me to comfort food and caramel mochas on white glazed ceramic mugs in my cozy back porch…

It feels wonderful here in my back porch shrouded by the not-so-chilly-just-yet weather. As I enjoy little sips of mocha and watch the rain, I’m thinking the best thing one can do when it's raining is just to let it rain, sit down and enjoy it… don't you think so? Oh my, what was that? Did you hear that?

Yes yes... I'm sure I heard a rustling of leaves and branches in the wet garden… over there!

I see a creepy image approaching... can you see it too? Someone that looks like a witch... over there hiding behind the roses!

Better not move... pretend we haven't seen her...

I have an idea who that might be; it always happens, you see! With the first autumn rain comes the first of the witches. It must be that time of the year again; time for dancing under the rain and time for the twirling and swirling of leaves and the gathering of witches… I hear the commotion of partying going on everywhere in blogland. Are you doing anything special? The pumpkins, the crafts, the baking, all the fun stuff! Oh I hope you do! I hope you get to celebrate such a lovely and brief window of time of cooler weather and fall fashion indulgences before we get completely submerge into another winter. Life is too short, live it to the fullest!!

Wishing you a magical week, whether shimmering with stardust or just your glowing selves!

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-10-02T17:46:00.022-06:00

Welcome to "SHOW OFF YOUR COTTAGE MONDAY", a blog party I host at the beginning of each week to celebrate the things we love about our homes and how we live.

Hi everyone! It's official! The cozy season has arrived! Have you seen the Fall Fairy buzzing around your house yet? Well yes!! She's been everywhere helping around with all there is to do with fall decorating, baking, embellishing, and just feathering up our nests for the season! She's certainly been here at The house in the roses!

And she's all over blogland too! Would you like to come with me and see what she's been up to! Can't wait to see what you've been doing this week! Last week was another fantastic party! I am enjoying seeing all the creative ideas and projects you are sharing! Here are a few for the review:

A Daily Cup from Mrs. Olson: shared a cozy nook dressed in autumnal colors.

From my front porch to yours shared her fall mantel display and cozy dinning room.

Northern Nesting shared her lovely front porch and entrance decorated for fall...

Cabin & Cottage shared some lovely white fall decor... love it!

Dwellings shared some romantic fall vignettes...

Blessings from our nest shared a lovely fall mantel.

If you were featured here, please feel free to grab the

"I was Featured" button here:

I wanted to say welcome new party goers

as well as say thank you to all my party friends for taking the time to come over and share your wonderful links each week!

THANKS SO MUCH! Sharing with these lovely gals!

Window...

2011-09-28T18:38:00.031-06:00

It’s that time of the year again! As you can imagine, I’ve been a busy bee buzzing around here trying to find the time to fit in all my little projects... Oh there’s so much to do! So much to collect! There are oodles of tomatoes to harvest, and there are all the herbs to be dried and all the grapes from all of our five grapevines would need to be collected before the birds get to them.

Tinkerbell herself showed up in our garden the other day! She promised she’d help collect all the goodies! And she did! She was very polite and quiet, but can I share a little secret? She thinks like a fairy and acts like a fairy, but really… she’s just a gardener in disguise… I still cannot believe ‘she’ actually gardens in her Tinkerbell PJ’s, though... but really, she does!

There is also the realization that the Wheel of the Solar Seasons has turned, cycling through another year once again. And thus, I’m soaking up as much sun as possible, as I can foretell a pretty nasty and cold winter is already lurking around the corner—to bite us when we least expect it.

Oh but we shouldn't be talking of winter here, right? And who would anyway with weather as lovely as this! It is indeed divine out here in the garden, with just the right tingle of mystery and anticipation brought in by nippy autumnal evening air...

So here we are... still dining outside, eating salads from our organic garden under some magical bluish-pink skies....

The garden under the magical glow of twilight...

I’ve been cozying up my nest a bit in preparation for the upcoming season and long nights ahead... so I got new pillows and covers and I have dug out my favorite lamp from the hobbit hole down the hall under the stairs... (Truly... there’s a hobbit hole down there!)

I love this lamp. It looks so lovely here cozying up my evenings again... it looks particularly enchanting against the darkness and chill of the outside.

What is it about a window soothed by the soft light of a lamp that so enchants me? Are you like that too? Think about this: The mellifluous garden swathed in shadows and gentleness, the quietness distilled and that sense of mystery and seclusion brought in by autumn’s chilly breath, and then... the soft light on the window beckoning me; reminiscent of home and warmth and comfort and love and everything that’s good...

There is something about the quietness and beauty of these imageries I think... it’s magical! But the real magic can only happen at the right time, and in my opinion that ‘right time’ starts right with the arrival of fall... the feeling is not the same in the summer when it's hot outside and natural light aplenty. I've seen magic happen, so I know it does... it may come sudden and go by quick, but sometimes it lingers at your very window... See what I mean?

That is why I’d usually take my ‘magic’ lamp back to the hobbit hole down the hall under the stairs every spring and keep it there all through the summer until the arrival of fall; when again I would polish it and bring it back to enchant my evenings.

Remember, if you open your eyes you'd see magic all around you! Is all in you, really! UNLEASH all possibilities

Wisteria Wednesday

2011-09-27T19:30:00.004-06:00

Taking a break from roses today to bring you Wondrous Wisteria Wednesday. We love wisteria for its beautiful flowers hanging on long clusters. There is something romantic about a pergola, or even a cottage, covered in wisteria, especially in the spring when it is in bloom. The two most popular types of wisteria are Wisteria floribunda and Wisteria sinensis. W. floribunda has clusters up to 18 inches and it usually flowers in May and June. Colors can range from violet-blue to white, with pink and lavender in between. W. sinensis has slightly smaller clusters, up to 12 inches, that flower white or blue in May. For decorating ideas, the violet-blue hues of wisteria look lovely in a feminine bedroom or powder room.

Cepolina (via)

Wisteria flowers range from white to pale violet to deep blue. The delicate groups of blooms are sometimes centered with pale yellow.

Hume Seeds (via)

A romantic garden room is created from three simple elements: large wisteria, a pergola and lattice. How wonderful to spend an afternoon surrounded by wisteria, drinking lemonade or iced tea.

Thread Spider (via)

An English country cottage covered in wisteria to the point where it surrounds the windows. Imagine opening the windows and letting the sweet fragrance fill the rooms.

Downlo (via)

A cottage in Chelsea, England covered in wisteria.

Moosey's Country Garden (via)

A single wisteria vine can climb and cover a pergola with lovely blooms. The leaves provide shade in the summer.

Plant Encyclopedia (via)

Wisteria Alba is a white variety of wisteria. This path framed by white blooms would look magical at night with white fairy lights.

Bumble Bee Blog (via)

Wisteria can also be trained to grow a fence. It looks especially nice against an old fashioned white picket fence.

Home (via)

Both white and blue wisteria are available in tree and vine varieties. Whichever you chose to plant in your garden, remember that wisteria does not like to be moved. Once it is established it can take over, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. Interior design ideas might include placing a silk wisteria plant in a corner for a pop of beautiful color.

This post comes courtesy of Design Shuffle, where you can find top tier interior designs from around the world – from New York interior designers, Los Angeles interior designers, and more, check out the latest at Design Shuffle.

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-09-25T15:00:00.002-06:00

Hello to you! And welcome to another Show Off Your Cottage Monday; a blog party I host at the beginning of each week to celebrate the things we love about our homes and how we live. If you're new here, thanks for stopping by and if you've visited before, thanks for returning!

My garden is still gifting flowers... the last of its roses are always the sweetest... they're gifts of joy. And that's what I'm celebrating today! From my cottage... to yours!

"The world is a rose; smell it and pass it to your friends." - Persian Proverb

What are you celebrating today? Please do share, but don't forget to link back to The house in the roses, this way other can come here and enjoy our party too! Thank You.

Fleeting moments

2011-09-20T17:54:00.009-06:00

Because this year summer was so late in arriving here, Nature is trying to make it up to us. And thus... summer has decided to stick around a little longer. Days are deliciously warm and sunny and clouds are rolling all over me like Paradise on a map.

It is so lovely here in the garden with weather that is neither in the scorching heat of summer nor in the prickly chills of autumn... it is just balmy days and it is the unruffled calm and imperturbable peace of the garden under perfectly balanced conditions... I am standing on a threshold between what was, and what will be. I dearly love this period of time. I want to hold these perfect moments in the palm of my hands, if I could, and retain them there for as long as ever...

I have this sort of a ritual that I faithfully follow every day without failing (I know that some of you like to do this too), it goes like this: Every day, at dusk, I go to the garden to bid the day farewell—that simple. I never forget to do this. Dusk is fleeting and beautiful and different each day. If I don't pay attention I will miss it... this day will never come back to me again; it was a gift given to me by my Creator, and I will never see it again the way it was presented to me today, so I must say my goodbyes as it slowly descents behind the horizon into yet another night.

Each moment, each hour, each day is different. They’re never the same. Things are never the same. If you think about it, we cannot occupy the same place in space at the same time; therefore, we coincide with people around us only once under the same time and place. Perhaps, if you live in a small town you might be able to coincide with that stranger twice on the same day at a different place, but even if you have a routine this is not the norm… The experience that touched us today won’t be the same tomorrow... each day must be appreciate it; each day lived to the fullest with open eyes and heart.

May you find peace within today. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities. May you share those gifts that you have received. May you be confident knowing you are a child of the Creator of this marvelous Universe. Let His presence settle into you.

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-09-18T18:07:00.021-06:00

Welcome to "SHOW OFF YOUR COTTAGE MONDAY", a blog party I host at the beginning of each week to celebrate the things we love about our homes and how we live.

I love old jars… the older looking the better in my opinion ;) Are you like that too? Decorating and filling old mason jars with flowers from my garden have being one of my favorite pastimes this summer! Yeap, I love the simple things… life can’t be any sweeter!

Flower vases, as simple as quart mason jars full of summer flowers imbue my heart with hope and beauty…

Here are some snapdragons from my garden sitting on the round table by the window, in our bedroom... simple jars filled with simple flowers... it just make me so happy! This past week I got inspired and decided to create my own treasure jar! So I made these... ;)

I hung an antique necklace around one of the jars to give it a sophisticated touch, filled them with some old lace ends I had around, and put them here, along with some other jars where I keep all sort of practical things; such as soaps (only white), cotton balls, swabs, etc…

I’m thinking I’ll use glass jars as candle holders for my next project! Glass jars work great with candles. If you're outside on a windy night, placing a candle in a glass jar will protect it from being blown out as you enjoy its glow. You can use your glass jar as storage, keep it in a craft room and use it to collect cloth scraps, buttons, marbles or beads, and of course, use it to keep your wild and witchy Halloween potions! I love how mine turned out!

And what are you celebrating, my friend? Take us there... but remember: You must link back to the House in the Roses! That's what the fun requires... ;) Thank YOU!

Happy Weekend!

2011-09-16T19:08:00.015-06:00

Hi everybody! It's Friday and I really am IN LOVE with sunflowers… enough that I just had to share some more lovely pics!

Their happy smiling faces, the sunshine treasured in their petals, the ruffling loveliness imbue my heart with hope and beauty… and I hope it would do the same for you!

The return

2011-09-14T18:11:00.028-06:00

I’m back home... like birds flock to their nest, my soul yearns for my home whenever I’m away from it... it’s nice to be back, but I’d have to say I miss those with whom I’ve shared my heart these few couple of days—walking hand in hand; listening to the marshlands sing their evening songs...

I’m always in awe at how my garden seems to free it self from within it self and grow rampant during those few days I’m away from it... it looks thick and overgrown, with the shabby appearance of an abandoned secret garden; yet I find my heart’s content here. I wouldn’t change a thing.

I can’t complain. I like it just the way it is—if not disheveled, lush and somewhat unkempt; and if I could choose a place to live I would no doubt choose the exuberance and liveliness contain in every shade of green and every leaf...

Like flowers, memories are collected here....

Thoughts and feelings grow here as free and as natural as branches and twigs grow under the mellow September sun…

Nature is climbing, crawling; it's competing for the sky…

Nature is swallowing up my treasures; it carries them in its bosom and lull them to sleep...

It really is a mingling of new life and old life, death, rebirth, and a persisting last drop of sunshine all together in a same blossom…

And so, I’ve been tidying up this place a bit while mostly enjoying my surroundings. Enjoying each sound and scent the garden bestows... It’s past 8:00pm already and a rose-tinted sky beckons for the warmth of home; but I linger on my steps, not wanting to leave yet.

It’s so delicious—these last few hours of day. Each sound encompasses its own special intonation; an especial and magical feeling to bestow, each light is different, each moment precious. Thank you for listening; thank you for just being there, even if you prefer to remain silent—nonetheless still listening to my mumbles... I’m sure my life would lack purpose if I wasn’t able to express my feelings in words; in many words, I should say! Sometimes, when I come here and press the keys of my computer as I write my posts I like to think that I’m alone; throwing my words to the air; to the emptiness of a vast lonesome planet, where I’m the only inhabitant and nobody is listening... but I know that’s not the case... I’m not alone. Thank You for coming by!

Of what's brewing in a witch's cauldron!

2011-09-06T18:39:00.042-06:00

I’ve been living in the garden these past few days; parting from it only to do the necessary. As summer slowly fades away, my heart years to be here, to love, if I could love any more, this small plot of land I call "my Paradise."

Gently swathed in the stillness of this September afternoon, I treasure everything I see and hear: The slow movement of afternoon light across the porch floor, the measured flight of geese against the blue sky, the sway of sunflower making shadows along the garden wall. Summer won’t last forever, but for this moment it feels like it could. Just a little while ago a silent flight of geese in their journey south flew by. Out of the blue they came, and disappeared almost instantly in the horizon... fortunately, I was lucky to captured a glimpse of their fleeting shadow on the garden’s floor, and above my head the strong, swift sound of their wings as they flew by... swish swish—the rhythmical sound made by their powerful wings mesmerized me. A bright September sun shines high in the sky, it is warm and lovely and yet, unseen changes are taking place... there is this magical feeling in the air that captivates my soul; it speaks of changes unseen yet so powerful; so real... it speaks of cozy evenings by the fire and apple cider and pumpkin breads and a landscape mysteriously being transformed before my very eyes... The firsts autumn leaves from the young maple tree confirm the unseen changes taking place all around me; in the sky, in the air and in the atmosphere of the garden... it looks lonesome and somewhat peculiar this little autumn leave among the petals of my last roses...

So I’ve been collecting memories... memories in the form of petals and departed roses...

I love my roses so much that it’s hard to even discard lifeless petals... fresh, or dried they’re so precious to me... I collect them; I fill baskets with them and dry spent roses that later I'd place everywhere around my house... I have to admit I have more dried roses in my house than I should, but it’s so hard to part from them... I found this chair on someone’s trash the other day on my way to work... It was in perfect condition, so I brought it home and it's been living in my garden ever since... It was sitting here for a while... ...but then I decided it would looked pretty here too... if you are like me, you know what that means: contemplating your garden as yet another room in your house is the norm. So, just as I do inside my house I do in the garden... I arrange and rearrange things around, move things around, bring things in take things out and just enjoy what I have. Sunflowers make me happy; they’re the sun’s smiles upon me—extra sweetness in the garden. I have decided I will have sunflowers in my garden from now on. Can their seeds be saved for planting next year, or would I need to buy new sunflower seeds next spring? Do you know? I have discovered a new candle fragrance from Bath & Body Works and now my house smells of cranberry woods. This is by far the prettiest of fragrance I’ve come across lately. Cedar-wood, cranberry and currant berries... just lovely and perfect for the mellow seasons ahead. I have an overly developed sense of smell (and hearing too)… have I told you that before? For better or worse, I can smell people; perceived their presence just by their scent even before their presence make presence... does that make sense? I love my new glass votive holders... so vintage, so romantic; in lovely emerald green! They have this feeling of antiquity to them that I just love! I got them on sale at Michael’s at .50 cents each. So this is how my big square table looks now... I love to create new arrangements for my table. They usually go with the seasons, or what I have on hand or how I feel... these votive holders are perfect for fall, I think... they go in accordance to the season’s muted greens... Our church moved to another location early this spring, and in the process many of our church mobiliary were sold or given away… I brought home an old church bench blessed with plenty of character and history... I painted it white and set it out in the back porch. It had been there all summer, until recently, when I, aware of the changes brewing up in the horizon, have started thinking of cozying up my nest... ...and thus I have brought it inside, and it is now sitting in our bedroom filled with pillows, and books and things I love… it immediately have added our room the cozy feeling I was trying to achieve… I love it! I know me too, this post makes me think of a hotchpotch in a witch's brew of ingredients ranging from bay leaves to bat wings, but it was intentionally done this way! ;) You see, I am going to be away for awhile and thought I’d give you an excuse to come back and read what you cannot, or wish not to ready today... ;) So I hope you don’t get bored waiting for me… ;) See you then!

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-09-04T19:00:00.004-06:00

Welcome to my cottage every one!! Are you ready for some cottage love? Me too! Remember, our cottage love celebration extends to our cottage gardens, to our life, our creative soul and each and every aspect of who we are! So Welcome! Let's celebrate life and the things we love, and meet others who might share some of your same interests. So please do come in... I hope you'll feel happy here!

DID I ever take you down the enchanted ivy path to my garden last year? I didn't think so...

I love ivies; dark green ivies put my imagination in gear. Ivies make me think of gloomy English gardens and foggy mornings under the shadowy wings of ancient castles... ivies underneath dark stone bridges and into the most sumptuous of forest...

The entrance to a garden is so important. It sets the tone and says so much about the personality of the gardener... thus, I wanted the little pathway which constitutes the entrance to my garden all covered in ivy. I've always wanted a house covered in ivy. Unfortunately for me, my lovely ivy was literally destroying my walls, so they had to be removed... Early at the beginning of this spring I removed all the ivy growing in masses in borders along the wall to the entrance of my garden... I added a pergola on the other end and planted a New Dawn rose by it--this is the door to my garden now... The ivy was replaced by several Shasta Daisies and Black-eye Susan’s to entice the butterflies... To cover the wall where the ivy was already climbing I planted another grape vine along with a lovely dark red rose climber... I’ve been waiting all summer for they to grow... dreaming with the lovely mingling of large green leaves of the grape vine and the scarlet red of the roses... not a stunning sight yet, but eventually it will be... I don’t like bare walls. They’re like dolls without hair to me, or a cat without a tail, so every wall in my garden must be covered in lush greens, or glamorous oranges or bright yellows and peaceful whites... If this is your first time here, take your time and follow the winding path to our enchanted little garden... and world ;) Or you can sit here and take to unwind, refresh, and stay still for more than just a moment. Whether it’s a cottage, a cabin, a beach house, or a shady spot in your own backyard, find comfort in that well-loved place that reflects your personal style. Show me what you are celebrating! Link! And please don't forget to link back to The house in the roses! Gracias!

Welcome, September

2011-09-01T19:56:00.010-06:00

I’m sure there must be some mysterious connection between the arrival of September and cooler weather… it must be! Have you noticed anything unusual in your part of the world? Here, in our valley, the arrival of September was acknowledged by temperature falling from the triple digits to a sudden 71 degrees… just like that, from one day to the other. It amazes me—this hasty change, and makes me think that September really marks the arrival of fall…

Ah yes, can you hear it too? Autumn’s mellow voice speaks softly… yet, it’s so clear. Autumn creeps with concealed force; it sneaks into your garden without you even noticing it… it spreads and swirls ripening to an overall gold as it heals a world that has grown dusty and dry under the austerity of August.

Before we know it, every petal from the roses, every flower will be just but memoirs from the past dancing in the folds of our memory… I don’t know what it is, but the arrival of fall, for lovely as it may be, it always puts a touch of sadness in me… as if something very dear was drawing to a close. It’s a death, really. The rampant energy of spring and summer has passed… like a man walking towards his inevitable end.

I’m I already passing the end of summer blues to you? Oh I hope not! And don’t you mind me… you see, I’m just too much of a melancholy soul, but I’m volatile too, so that means that although today I may be feeling blue, tomorrow you’ll see me dancing in wind-blown leaves as happy as I can be... so watch me laugh, jumping across puddles of leaves! For now, I think I will go through my scarves and think of apples and cider, and pumpkins and nuts on the ground and crimsoned leaves and the smell of them burning... that should help, right?

Welcome, September!

This and that

2011-08-29T20:28:00.048-06:00

My kitchen smells lovely... and it isn’t exactly the smell of food!

This is by far the loveliest of flower arrangement I have had sitting on my table this year... well, maybe... but I do love this one!

...The pretties of pink and the loveliest of scent... from my roses, Chicago Peace.

Oh but let me tell you, the scent of roses is also mingling with the yummy aroma of food around here! Ah yes! Have you ever tried the “Cuppa Cuppa Cuppa” recipe from Steel Magnolias? I'm curious to see if anyone has actually tried that recipe from Steel Magnolias. You remember Dolly Parton's character said: “A cup of flour, a cup of sugar, a cup of fruit cocktail with the juice. And you mix and bake at 350 'til gold and bubbly.” Is this an actual dish or is it something the director just threw together for the movie? I dunno, but I actually tried it this weekend! ;) And Ms. Parton also said “you serve it over ice cream to cut the sweetness”. I didn’t want ice cream on mine, so I whipped up some holly and pure home made whip cream to go with it, with half the sugar required, of course... My Peter Pan and Ms. Wendy tried it and loved it! Truth be told, I didn’t find it quite as appealing... too much on the dried side me thinks, but I must have overcooked it, that’s it… plus I waited far too long to taste it... this dessert must be eaten right off the oven for ultimate goodness. We’re drowning in a bumper crop of tomatoes again this year. If you have never cultivated tomatoes it’s something I recommend doing. Organic grown tomatoes, picked fresh from the garden to your plate would surprise your taste buds! They taste so much different from dull store bought tomatoes... The ultimate experience for all your hard work in the garden, I tell you! Although I must say I had nothing to do with this goodness... all the hard work and goodness thereof after, I owe to my dear husband! Do you love photographing food? I do! ;) And I love photographing all my ‘tomato’ salads ;) Don’t know why... food just looks so pretty in photos... ;)

Now can you come with me to the garden? I have something to show you!

My gigantic sunflowers! What a height they’ve stretched to! First time ever planting them from seeds—planting them from anything as a matter of fact! I had never had sunflowers in my garden before, and was totally surprised to see them grow this high—way above my neighbor’s roof... These beautiful bright, cheery flowers have the most amazing power in them... they always but always put a smile on my face whenever I pass by them! Hope they’d do the same for you! ;) But really, there must be a dwarf or intermediate cultivars available that would better suit my garden... any body know?

May you find peace and joy while you're here.

MY E-BOOKS

2011-08-29T20:12:00.005-06:00

Dear friends: I just want to let you know that I’ve downloaded a new version of my e-book “Hollow Woods” unto Smashwords and Kindle Store.

When I first published my e-book I already had a second volume ready for publication, which I thought I would publish at a later time, however, after some thoughts I decided to combine both versions and make it into just one book. So now you have double the delight!

If you enjoy reading my blog “Hollow Woods”, you’re going to love this ebook! Over a hundred pages of pure imaginative delightful short stories are now ready for your reading enjoyment... with lots and lots of new stories!

You’re welcome to download the new version onto your reading device.... it’s free to those of you who have already purchased a copy!

And just in case you read Spanish, I now have two new poetry books ready to be downloaded! Here they are: My poems

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2011-08-27T19:50:00.035-06:00

Hello to you! And welcome to Show Off Your Cottage Monday. If you're new here, thanks for stopping by and if you've visited before, thanks for returning!

Do you love romantic decorating? Adding romantic touches to my decorating comes naturally in me... it’s something I do even without noticing I’m doing it... are you like that too? So here are just a few 'romantic style' inspired images for you today. A little touch of loveliness.

Pinks and pastels for some truly romantic rooms... yummy!

Decorating on a mirror with flowers and candle holders gives maximum romantic effect. The ruffles, the lace, all the white to off-white to the lovely creaminess... everything speaks romance here... Details... everything is in the details... Roses are the quintessence of romantic decorating... they just make everything looks so dreamy... Pretty for guest room or bathroom or mini porch table settings. Lace and romance are inseparable if you ask me... I would dream my life away in these rooms.

Love love the romantic country cottage feeling to this room... Nothing like vintage dishes and ruffled tables for a romantic inspired setting Such a lovely feminine setting... delicate yet so elegant So pretty, and colorful... love the vintage variety. Our decorating style reveals only a small part of our personality... our personal style reflects our taste and speaks volumes about our preferred style, as well, don't you think so? Love this soft pink lacey blouse and necklesses... so very romantic and feminine. And of course... I had to add some garden love here! Isn’t this a most romantic little corner?

Photo souce: Pinterest

What are you celebrating today? Take us there! But don't forget to link back to the house in the roses so others can find us too!

Dog days of summer

2011-08-27T14:53:00.014-06:00

The hottest, most sultry days of summer in the garden...

Late August; dog days of summer...

And here I am drinking it all in… slowly, peacefully…

The depth, the azure, the perfume… transcending ecstasy

Playing house in the garden with my pretty thrift store dishes and an old baker's rack made potting bench!

Savoring this... the most delicious ice cream ever! Espresso Mocha.

How are you spending your summer days? Oh I know summer can be quite a bummer for some of you who live in super hot places and I feel for you, but summers are so short here... oh how I wish it would stay!