A Spring Smile

The first thing I noticed this afternoon when I drove up the driveway was my tulips were starting to bloom.  I promised myself I would let them grow this year instead of using them for cut flowers.  As you can see, that promise didn't last long!  Michael said that it was going to rain tomorrow, so I decided to cut them.  I didn't have enough blooms to make a pretty arrangement.  Therefore, I used them in votive candle holders.  I wanted to add another touch of spring so I included some pretty Meyer Lemons.  I love the feel of spring I brought to my house in a matter of 5 minutes.  I am glad I broke the promise to myself  because I smile every time I look at the tulips!

grace and peace,
julie

Looking for Answers

I know it is Sunday morning and we are supposed to be getting ready for church, but there is a stomach virus in the house so we will be staying home today.  With a bit of free time on my hands, I started thinking about our landscaping, which is pretty much nonexistent.  Last year, Michael added my bell and Jacob built a pretty border out of stones around the bell.  I planted a plethora of seeds, and I fully expected a flower bed like they show in the magazines.  My flowers were beautiful, but there were also a lot of weeds as well.  I overlooked the weeds and chose to enjoy the flowers. This year I would like to solve the weed problem so I can really enjoy the flowers.  I am just not sure how to prevent the weeds from growing with my seeds.  We tilled the area well before planting the seeds.  I did my best to weed by hand, but obviously that wasn't very effective.
I have considered putting plastic down in the area and just buying plants, but I like the look of a cottage garden full of different flowers.  The cheapest way to get the look I desire is to plant seeds, but then I still will have weeds.  Do you have any suggestions to help me?  How do y'all handle these types of flower gardens?  Do the magazines all lie to us?  Can you really have a flower garden planted from seeds without all the weeds?  I don't know, but I sure would like to find out!

grace and peace,
julie

Spring Eye Candy

Michael and I were invited the other day to view a greenhouse FULL of orchids.  The beauty of the flowers took my breath away, and it was a cherished break in the dull weather of winter.  I had no idea there were so many types/varieties of orchids.

I thought I would give you a bit of spring eye candy to enjoy!  I don't know about where you live, but we are experiencing the beauty of spring in our corner of the world.  The Bradford Pear trees are in bloom along with the daffodils.  I am hoping to go for a long walk this weekend to enjoy some more of the Lord's handiwork!

grace and peace,
julie

Spring Fever

Spring Fever has taken over my mind as of late.  I am ready to be outside and enjoy the beauty that the Lord has provided for us to enjoy.  Missy and I have ventured out for some walks.  I didn't intend to take her with me, but she didn't intend to be left behind.  I was afraid that a 2 mile jaunt may be more than she could handle, but she was willing and able.

I also have been stealing out to our front porch at any available opportunity.  I am ready to make it my sanctuary once again.  I have missed my quiet time listening to the birds and relaxing.  I am well aware of the fact that March seems to always provide a bit of uncertainty with the weather, but I am holding good thoughts for a beautiful spring to quickly come our way!

grace and peace,
julie