Rain

Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894)
A Child’s Garden of Verses, 1913

• Rain
• THE RAIN is raining all around,
• It falls on field and tree,
• It rains on the umbrellas here,
• And on the ships at sea.

Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.

French Toast

You probably weren't expecting this, were you? via

Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.

Charles Dickens Loved Cats

I scanned the image from my favorite book . . . The Royal Book of Crests. It seemed to be perfect for making this illustrated quote. Have a great weekend and give your cat some extra treats.




Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.

Croquet, Horseshoes or Bocce Ball? | Lawn Games

I'll choose croquet. I grew up playing this game and never got over it. These would make nice gifts if you're visiting someone at their summer home.

Restoration Hardware Lawn Games For sale at half price right now!




Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.

USPS Stamps Honor Lighthouses After Gulf Coast Hurricanes

These Stamps Honor Lighthouses That Stood Defiant to Gulf Coast Hurricanes
Images Based on Photos Taken the Year Following the Wrath of Katrina, Rita and Wilma

Read more . . .

Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.

Superb Fruit Dove | Beatiful Bird of New Guinea

This beautiful bird is the perfect image for ending a busy day. Goodnight. See you in the morning. Superb Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus superbus), Papua, New Guinea




Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.

Outdoor Spaces | Slideshow | Architectural Digest

Architect Robert Paxton and designer Bunny Williams restored and expanded a farmhouse near Charlottesville, Virginia, mixing contemporary elements with the region’s vernacular style. A porch that overlooks the gardens was inspired by one the clients had seen in South Africa. The large brick fireplace surrounded by wicker furniture is well used even in the dead of winter. Slideshow of more outdoor spaces from Architectural Digest.

Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.

Nice Symmetry on this Outbuilding

I love the symmetry of all the architectural elements on this carriage house, don't you. It's absolute perfection.




Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.

Basset Hound Puppy with Fan

Is it hot enough for you? Webster is usually parked in front of a fan but this weeks he's discovered the joy of central air. I have to admit I'm enjoying it too. I have the thermostat set at 78 and it's quite pleasant. For some reason in past years I've had it set like a walk-in cooler. I like being cool and conserving energy at the same time.

Image via Pixdaus.




Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.

10 Inexpensive Ways to Improve the Value of Your Home Before Selling

10 Inexpensive Ways to Improve the Value of Your Home Before Selling

One of my listings is under contract after being on the market for one year. What a relief. I think I helped too. The sellers always did everything I asked of them but it wasn't until we applied lots of Feng Shui principles that we found our buyers. I loaned the sellers several of my books for a crash course. The tip that made the most difference was putting live potted red geranium plants all over the house. They added such "life" to every room. The red blossoms and round leaves represent good luck and prosperity too. They also had a pre-sale home inspection which was another smart thing to do. Everything's going well so far. Keep your fingers crossed for us.




Click orange square to subscribe via feed reader or email.