Wishful Thinking

Just shy of the halfway point through Winter here, we are always seeking ways to bring Spring into the home...

While potted tulips, hyacinths and daffodils tickle one's fancy they are short-lived.


The early Spring edition of 'Country Gardens' has just the solution. The article I found most intriguing was the use of antique and vintage vessels, orphans you might say to start new African violet plants in.


Nurturing several in my windowsill, one of which is from a cutting my Grandmother had given 20 years previous they'll make perfect specimens to take from and have established in time for gift giving at Easter, May Day or Mother's Day...


I can hardly wait...



* Painting by Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema

Creamers, cups and cake plates from my collection of castoffs collected over time.

For Vanity's Sake

Dressing tables originated in 18th century France. Called toilette tables because a small linen cloth (the toilette) was wrapped around cosmetics before placing them in a chest.


The 'Chambers Cyclopedia' of 1727-41 referred to a dressing case ' where in are kept paints, pomatums, patches and the pincushion, powder box, brushes and esteemed parts of the equipage of a lady's toilet.'


In England the Victorians also adored these vanities... containers and trays evolved specifically for them...



Over the years many items from the vanities of the past have found their way into the hands of collectors who cherish them for their beauty.


* Sentimental trinkets collected over the years.

Winter Whites

Under The Moonlight

The lure of the pink setting sun reflecting off the blanket of freshly, fallen snow entices one to tie up the skates and head for the frozen pond... skating in the solitude of the beauty that surrounds you under the moonlight.


All is quiet except for the subdued rhythm of the skate blade meeting the ice.
Almost sensual in nature it is a perfect way to spend a Winter's eve...


Except for the warm bread pudding awaiting your return.


* Painting - ' Evening Skaters ' Trisha Romance

January Wonders

Living in the Niagara Peninsula one may witness a unique harvest that takes place when the temperatures drop below -8 celsius (17F) for several days.


Grapes left on the vines well into the Winter months freeze allowing the water content to intensify the flavours producing a luscious sweet ice wine...
Ice wine pickers arrive in the dead of night to begin to harvest the frozen clusters, then the grapes are immediately pressed to extract the nectar.


Coveted the world over there is even an Ice Wine Festival held in January.


Madelaine on the other hand would much rather snuggle indoors and let the humans partake of the harvest...