This says Spring to me.......

...when I look out my dining room window and see flats of new flowers placed around this old maple tree just waiting to be planted! Filled with anticipation and optimism, we made our first major foray to the garden shops on Saturday late afternoon. Nothing too fancy here ~ some bright little annuals that will edge my herb garden, geraniums, and a couple new hostas.

And speaking of optimism - see those tomato plants on the left? My husband is planning bigger and better squirrel protection for this summer! Despite vows to purchase all our tomatoes at the local farmers' market this year, he can't resist a challenge!


Saturday morning found us at the Webster Groves Herb Society's annual herb sale. Those in the know arrive at least a half hour early, eat a portable breakfast in line, and chat with other gardeners. Ladies from the Herb Society circulate with slices of lavender pound cake and rosemary shortbread. As you approach the sales area, there were tables set with vintage tablecloths and more goodies to sample ~ herb flavored cheese spreads and mint infused lemonade. Wish I had brought my camera! This is a lovely sale with a fabulous variety of herbs, and we returned home with plenty new additions for our herb garden.

Our Solomon's Seal is in bloom. This elegant plant with graceful arching stems enjoys the shade and has these dainty white flowers in the Spring ~

Rose Crocheted Afghan

This is just about the sweetest crocheted afghan ever! I rescued it from a flea market a couple weeks ago, and have now completed a few repairs where joined blocks had pulled apart so that it's all ready for Friday Flea Market. With lovely old fashioned 'granny' squares ~ every other one has a pink rose with green leaves ~ this afghan is worked in cotton thread and represents hours and hours of effort! It measures 88" by 72" not including the 5" knotted fringe along three sides.

Lovely layered pink petals ~

Please notice that most of the squares are worked in snowy white, while some are done in a more creamy white color.

Lots of ways to use this pretty piece; it's cheerful and feminine, and ready for your cottage ~ it looks charming draped over a wicker chair, but would also make a darling bed cover. You'll find it in Vintage Linens at Rose Meadow Cottage Designs.