Forceful

Are you into forcing bulbs in the winter? I love, love flowers year round and when you have bulbs blooming indoors during winter it just brings such a bright cheeriness to a room. Cindy got me this amaryllis bulb in October when she was down to help and enjoy Linny and Jared wedding. Every time I walk into the kitchen and see it I'm truly full of appreciation with a hint of awe.
If bulbs are new to you, don't be afraid. The easy way is to go to a store-Wally's or T-and get one already pre-planted. Follow directions and enjoy. I'm ready to plant my narcissus bulbs this week for Christmas beauty and oh that aroma.

Did the flowers get your attention or did that big lid also attract you???? It's so big it jammed my pots and lids drawer under the stove and so I've had it on the counter for days not knowing where to stuff it. My organization is less than desirable. You can be sure I won't be taking a photo of the top of my refrig to post. On that note . . . go buy some bulbs. They'll make you smile.

Kitchen Counter Lamps

Here's the counter without the giant, 30 year old microwave and with the new little lamp I found at Bi*g Lot*s last evening. I've always loved the pineapple symbolism so this was a real easy choice. And shouldn't we choose a lamp when the patio shades aren't available??? Well no, but I have no buyer's remorse. Again, the wall color is soooo faded in my photos. There is nothing pale or minty about it in real life.

Another angle, obviously. And yes, I could put those black and white plates away but I'm doing the "staging" thing in my limited way. Go ahead and laugh. I have broad shoulders. That's another story.

Close up. And what is the symbolism of the pineapple you ask. When the sea captains returned home after a long voyage (especially from a tropical location) they would bring back pineapples and even impale them on their gate posts to signal that they were home and welcoming visitor. Thus, a symbol of WELCOME. There, now you know if you didn't previously. Please feel welcomed in our home! I'll admit to always being stymied by electrical cords. Any advice dear ones?


Here's the nook where I piled, stacked my cook books. Now my tiered basket reigns and holds produce. This counter lamp is from dear friend Claudia who was doing a remodel and didn't want it anymore. You know the saying one woman's trash is another woman's treasure. I've had it about a year and appreciate it daily. Thanks Claudia.

Now I have to be real here and tell you that all the rest of this room is cluttered at best. The cook books and a ton more are piled on the dining room table. My real challenge is determining what to part with and how and where to store the keepers. If you know me, you know that really is a challenge for me. Oh well, I'm blessed and happy. Wishing you the same.