Miscanthus Hedge

I keep seeing the most amazing photos of this type of hedge and I finally learned the name. 

Miscanthus produces showy copper colored flower plumes in September and brilliant fall gold foliage. This perennial is zone 5 hardy and is both deer resistant and drought proof once established. Make sure to shear back this hedge plant in the spring to about 12” from the ground. This helps to re-energize the plant for the coming season. This sounds perfect, doesn't it? Except for the shearing back part (smile). photo source

Dog Bed in the Kitchen

Yes. The dog bed next to the island is such a nice touch and proof positive that this is not a trophy kitchen. When I first moved to New Jersey, Sister Parish was a noted interior decorator among the rich and famous and her signature was always putting a dog bed in the living room. That impressed me no end. Complete kitchen renovation with numerous photos including this one here.

Furry Friends Forever, Sleeping

If this isn't the picture of pure contentment, I don't know what is. Don't you love the dog's back leg thrown over the cat? via

Looking for a way to boost your protein intake at breakfast? I am. This one is my favorite for those mornings I'm rushing out the door. I always forget about the amazing amount of protein in cottage cheese. Pot style is my favorite. Other breakfast ideas here and here. Healthy eating when you first rise in the morning is so important. Good luck!

Envelope Art

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I am so glad this lovely 1887 painting survived the post and was saved by the lucky recipient. 

Winter Bluebirds

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I definitely have winter bluebirds but I can't recall ever seeing them in the snow. Isn't this a great photograph?!

Sherlock New Year's Special 2016

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I have to watch Sherlock again, this time on my iPad, really up close and personal. I fell asleep toward the end last night and missed quite a lot. When I watch the full episode online, I will be able to read the writing that pops up now and again in the program that I can't read while watching in bed because my tv screen isn't big enough. I'm sure others must have the same problem. I won't have any trouble with my iPad. I love watching movies on it too. The full episode won't be available on PBS.org until January 11th.

Vermont Farmhouse at Twilight

You know I love a house photo with all the lights on inside and the porch light too. Nothing is more inviting or beautiful. A little snow is the icing on the cake. via