Hidden Magnolias

Spring is finally here.  I love the green, the flowers, and the new life. The Cherokee Rose blooms in early spring and it's dainty flower lasts for only a short time... Yellow Bearded iris Some woodland hyacinths popped up in the day-lily bed. I will transplant to a better location. And of course, the basic violet. Thought to be a pest, I do love them. I guess because of the later spring and all the rain, we have a have marvelous, very green spring. This was my ride to work this week. Enjoy the Spring.  Pat

Being a Southerner, I have a soft spot in my heart for the lacy flowering dogwoods that grace our yards in early spring. But I have an unusual dogwood in my yard. It is called a Kousa Dogwood . I was inspired to write this post because my artist friend June Corley , down in  Loachapoka, AL, (who lives in the most delightful magic place) posted pictures of her Kousas in full bloom. Aren't they magnificent? June Corley June Corley Kousa Dogwoods are native to Asia and can be distinguished from the traditional dogwood we see down here by the fact that it flowers about a month later, and it has pointed rather than rounded flower bracts: Traditional dogwood: Another distinguishing feature is the interesting fruit. It is bright red and said to be edible. A website called You Grow Girl indicates that you can eat the fruit. Since my tree is usually loaded with these red berries, I might...

Despite cooler than average temps this year, nature still finds a way to show the beauty of Spring.  I thought I would share some of my garden delights that are not the traditional southern dogwoods and azaleas. The Cherokee Rose bush. Designated in 1916 as the state flower of Georgia, there is some debate about the origins.  Women's clubs all over Georgia insist it was a flower cultivated by the Cherokees, but today's horticulturists say it was brought over from Asia and should be considered and invasive species.  Regardless, I love it. Beautiful irises have popped up here and there. I particularly like this old fashioned purple bearded guy.  The yellow one is not bad either. And all over my yard is an abundance of Silver Dollar plants. I love their frilly white flowers. They have popped up in the best places this year. And of course, the short lived, ...

My favorite magazine, Garden and Gun, always has a section in their magazine about articles Made in the South. I thought I would add one of my own. I recently became a fan of Carley Ochs, founder and creator of Bourbon & Boweties line of jewelry. She is a good ole’ Southern girl with eye for designing great jewelry. From dainty to racy, these statement bracelets are a must have. The Bourbon and Boweties motto is “Made by proud Southern hands” and it envelops all that Carley is and has become in her 27 years. Carley loves what she does and it shows in each piece. The soft green is so popular right now with this year's Spring colors. I love the way her bracelets can mix with other pieces. Visit her at  https://www.facebook.com/BourbonAndBoweties

Nothing heralds the arrival of Spring than Easter Eggs. As a child, we all loved an Easter Egg hunt. Even today, I love to watch an egg hunt and hear the squeals of delight when the treasure is found. I wanted to share some eggs with you today from some very creative bloggers. Eggs are so versatile and can be decorated in so many ways. I love this one made of polymer clay. AMBER ELLEDGE/ STARLESS CLAY Debbie at Confessions of a Plate Addict , did these lovely decoupage eggs with fabric. Angie at The Country Chic Cottage did these clever paper mache eggs. This is a cute box of decorated eggs using ribbons and jewels. Kathy at Life on Lakeshore Drive did this adorable "Easter" plant with dollar store materials. You could use it anywhere. Adrienne at Our Unexpected Journey had made a wonderful centerpiece hanging eggs from branches. I will leave you with my favorite..... Deviled Easter Egg chicks. Being ...