Cheryl Briard Illustrator

THE MISTLETOE

2011-12-26T13:32:00.003-05:00

Val N., dear friend gave me Mistletoe for Christmas, real Mistletoe! In the old Ancestor days, the hanging of mistletoe over the doorway was understood to imply a pledge of peace and friendship, to be sealed with a friendly greeting. It was a way to bring good cheer and security in the long winter night.

AMERICAN LADY BUTTERFLY

2011-12-14T13:32:00.001-05:00

The American Lady Butterfly silkscreen print with gold leaf.

THANKSGIVING HOLLY FOREST WALK AT SANDY HOOK

2011-11-26T11:53:00.005-05:00

We did not have time to go to the top of the lighthouse on this visit, as Annie & Ben's ferry was leaving at dusk for NYC. The walk through the mysterious holly forest at Sandy Hook was just what we needed after the Thanksgiving feast the night before!

SWEET!

2011-10-30T07:48:00.005-04:00

Autumn is the time for strawberry jam making. I found these sweet, half-pint Mason jars, which are a anniversary limited edition and plan to use them for Thanksgiving table decorations. I also added my secret ingredient (from the herb garden) for extra accent!

WORLD TRADE CENTER 1985

2011-09-10T11:53:00.002-04:00

One of my most interesting projects was the design and illustration of a 24 page book that was produced in 1985 for the NYNJ Port Authority. I remember taking my two young daughters with me to photograph the World Trade Building. It became a family outing, a day to visit all of the places in lower Manhattan that we had talked about. The WTC was filled with eager young school children on their class trip to see the building for the first time. The book would eventually become a promotional piece to be given out to all the school children who toured the building and observation desk. It would be a learning tool to keep them busy on the bus or subway trip back home.

After 911, I forgot about the project until yesterday. My grandson was told to wear red, white and blue to school for a 911 Remembrance Day. I pulled the book and the old sketches out of the file to show him. I told him about the observation deck atop the WTC and how far you could see when looking through the binoculars. I told him that there was a wonderful top floor exhibit designed by one of my favorite illustrators , Milton Glaser, who featured the many different breads of the world, and the trade that influenced them. It opened up a dialogue
of different cultures and understanding, perhaps a learning tool for the future.

YELLOW GROOVE BAMBOO

2011-07-08T18:27:00.002-04:00

JUST LIKE YESTERDAY

2011-07-07T10:59:00.005-04:00

Our dear friend Zenia and her wonderful husband Mike visited us yesterday afternoon from Seattle. I last saw Zenia 35 years ago. We met in New Brunswick, NJ, fresh out of college and looking for our first jobs. We had so much fun together, taking Tai Chi classes in the park and making soap, and planning the future. We never lost touch with each other, we corresponded over the miles and yesterday was magical as we caught up on all of life's experiences, just like yesterday, it was perfect!

KEIRA AND THE FOX

2011-06-23T15:43:00.002-04:00

SPANISH PARADISE EXHIBIT AT THE NY BOTANICAL GARDENS

2011-06-22T19:06:00.005-04:00

The Alhambra, a Palace of Moorish grandeur and elegance, is recreated at the NY Botanical Garden. The Alhambra's gardens and architecture represent sophisticated plantsmanship, art and engineering that were the hallmarks of Islamic culture from 711 to 1492. Washington Irving, famous American author, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" visited Alhambra in Granada, Spain in 1859. The following excerpt is from the book, "Tales of the Alhambra"

THE ALHAMBRA BY MOONLIGHT
I have sat for hours at my window, inhaling the sweetness of the garden and musing on the chequered fortunes of those whose history is dimly shadowed out in the elegant memorials around. Sometimes I have issued forth at midnight, when everything was quiet, and have wandered over the whole building. Who can do justice to a moonlight night in such a climate and in such a place! The temperature of an Andalusian midnight in summer is perfectly ethereal. We seem lifted up into a purer atmosphere; there is a serenity of soul, a buoyancy of spirits, an elasticity of frame that render mere existence enjoyment. The effect of moonlight, too, on the Alhambra, has something like enchantment. every chasm of time, every mouldering tint and weatherstain disappears, the marble resumes its original whiteness, the long colonnades brighten in the moonbeams, the halls are illuminated with a softened radiance, until the whole edifice reminds one of the enchanted palace of an Arabian Tale.

Washington Irving
Spring 1859

HAPPY FATHERS DAY

2011-06-19T10:07:00.003-04:00

Happy Fathers Day! Fred gets his own very comfy slippers!

THE BEAR POND FERRY

2011-06-01T08:35:00.001-04:00

GENEALOGY MADNESS!

2011-05-24T21:48:00.006-04:00

I have been immersed in genealogical research for the past few weeks -- no, I was not raptured up. So intent on getting my family tree finished for the big presentation next week for the third grade immigration project! I will be sharing some tips on how to use the internet to find long lost relatives and research family history. With my own family investigation over the last few months, I have discovered and connected several important answers to the puzzle of one missing family - the Garnhams. I was able to trace them through the census, UK village records and the most important document - the family will!

TOMATO POTATO

2011-05-14T19:42:00.005-04:00

I came across a fun magazine illustration that I had done years ago. Working from a photo that was given to me from the art director, I rendered the plant as they wanted me to. I never really saw an actual Tomato-Potato Plant, but I think of it every year when I go to get my new crop of tomato plants. Today grandson Chris and I picked out heirloom, cherry and plum tomatos and planted them inside of the bamboo obelisks that we had made. Now we just have to wait until August!

MOTHERS' DAY 2011

2011-05-08T20:13:00.010-04:00

For many years, I did not look forward to Mother's Day. Perhaps, it was the loss of my own dear Mother, 25 years ago that began my self-imposed exile from the holiday. I felt no reason to celebrate because the emptiness was unbearable. The Buddhists believe that "to lose your Mother is to lose your Universe." At one point, I even began making other plans with friends instead of with my family. I did this for five years, penciling out the date on the calendar months in advance so that everyone would know that I was not available. Things began to change when I realized that I was not feeling worthy about being a mother. How could this be? I breastfed my 3 children, was a full-time teacher, 4-H leader, juggled everyone's activities and appointments. I put everyone in the family first on the agenda, trying to make them happy, and in the process, was putting me last on the list. So, I knew what I needed to do to be a good mother, I needed to take care of myself first. It has been gradual over the years, I realize that I cannot take on every activity, and delegate duties to others when I know I just can't handle a stressful situation. I am more conscious of planning and managing, and I am involved in the activities that make me happy and I can pass this on to my family. It has not been easy, but I think that I am getting there. Today was the best Mother's Day weekend that I have ever had. We all contributed to its success and I do not feel guilty about spending most of the day in the hot tub!

A THOUGHT...

2011-05-04T16:35:00.002-04:00

In Buddhism, we are taught to regard all sentient beings as having been our mother at one time or another. Imagining this helps us to develop compassion and kindness towards others.

SENSATIONAL COLOR!

2011-05-03T09:09:00.006-04:00

Here is the recipe for Violet Jelly, it is perfect for Mother's Day. The two cups of boiling water are poured over the violets and put into the frig for 24 hours. Then the violets are strained and the infusion left for jelly making.

VIOLET JELLY

2 Heaping cups of fresh violet petals
2 Cups of boiling water
1/4 Cup strained lemon juice
4 Cups of sugar
3 oz. of liquid pectin

As soon as the lemon juice is added to the violet infusion - VOILA! a magnificent color is created!

VIOLET HARVESTIME

2011-05-02T08:50:00.004-04:00

There is a profusion of violets this Spring. Lots of thought on how to showcase them, in ice cubes, candied, and of course, violet jelly!

SEASCAPE

2011-05-01T09:33:00.002-04:00

TOASTING WITH TEA AND MERLOT

2011-04-30T09:43:00.007-04:00

Val and I enjoyed every minute of the Royal Wedding yesterday. We moved from screen to screen celebrating with the same tea that the Queen has for breakfast every morning - Darvilles of Windsor. In the evening we donned our hats and sapphires for Happy Hour and a perfect ending in the hot tub.

BLUE FAIRY

2011-04-29T10:20:00.001-04:00

BELVOIR BEACH

2011-04-28T16:00:00.005-04:00

We had heard that Tom's brick had been placed on the walk in the park in Beach Haven. It has been a year of missing T.C. so we took the trip on this foggy morning to the park to see the little tribute. Afterwards, we sat on the beach at Belvoir and listened to the ocean and the memories.

SPRING POND

2011-04-27T18:36:00.001-04:00

LUNCH AND GENEALOGY

2011-04-26T19:22:00.004-04:00

Liz and I had a wonderful visit to Manasquan. Luckily, the thrift store was open and we came away with several unexpected bargains. Liz bought some very cute Spring ornaments and I found a 2 cup teapot to replace the one that had broken. Then on to Surf Taco for lunch, genealogy talk, and what to look for on our visit to the Atlantic View Cemetery. It is always good to have a map of the cemetery that you are visiting. It is never good to rely on memory, but after much scouting, we did find what we were looking for!

SHERRILL

2011-04-26T07:13:00.002-04:00

SHERRILL

2011-04-25T09:53:00.002-04:00

HAPPY EASTER 2011!

2011-04-24T21:04:00.006-04:00

GETTING READY FOR EASTER -INDOORS/OUTDOORS

2011-04-23T14:06:00.007-04:00

We are busy inside working on the finishing touches for Easter Dinner. Fred is outside doing the gardening and transplanting. Even the bunny showed up, I suspect he is enjoying some fresh, young bamboo shoots.

WALK THROUGH THE PARK

2011-04-22T16:55:00.007-04:00

We visited Monmouth Battlefield Park and took the walk down the long slope, past the skunk cabbage and across the bridge towards the orchards today. The apple and peach trees are coming into bloom and velvety lambs' ear is popping up throughout the meadow.

VISIT TO THE SADDLE SHOP

2011-04-21T19:42:00.005-04:00

Rick's Saddle Shop is in the historic town of Englishtown, NJ. It goes back to Revolutionary War Days and the oldest house in town is Dr. English's home where George Washington stayed during the Battle of Monmouth. We were visiting the Saddle Shop to purchase Chris's first riding gloves and helmet, he chose the adjustable model with a fashionable visor, and black gloves to match. After shopping we settled in to eating ice cream at Four Boys on the corner.

NEW BEGINNINGS

2011-04-20T17:46:00.007-04:00

Ah, the promise of Spring and New Beginnings. We discovered Fred's purple thistle in the garden today, it starts out as a beautiful circular plant and by August has risen into a tall flowering super giant! The same with the Concord grapes, the vines are beginning to leaf and from these tiny buds emerge the tastiest fruit.

GARDEN WREATH

2011-04-19T12:52:00.001-04:00

BARBARA'S BIRTHDAY BRUNCH

2011-04-18T16:13:00.010-04:00

We helped Barbara celebrate her special day, and had a great time seeing friends from work, getting caught up on new business, and brunching! Hanna orchestrated the entire event and did a spectacular job.

WEEK GONE BY

2011-04-17T09:35:00.007-04:00

What a busy week last week! It was wonderful meeting daughters Annie and Marie and their friends in NYC. Tuesday was spent in Princeton getting Chris's audiological done, a visit to the Art Museum to see the recent portrait acquisitions, and of course lunch. Getting Alice off to her new career, several meetings on Thursday and Friday and watching Chris take Finn out into the rain at his lesson -followed with a game of checkers on a stormy night with my little guy. Today, I am off on my own to Barbara's birthday brunch and some catching up with friends.

BAMBUSA!

2011-04-16T15:29:00.004-04:00

The bamboo shoots have arrived on this cold, blustery April day. They are so small, we usually feel them first with our feet before we see them. Now we must be careful where we walk if we want them to grow tall and become part of the grove.

GETTING READY FOR EASTER

2011-04-15T17:41:00.006-04:00

The week before Easter is quite busy around here with all the preparations. Today I began hand washing all of the vintage linens and tablecloths. Once a year I go through the ritual of taking them out of the cabinet and selecting the ones that I want to use. They must be washed in the tub and then hung out to line dry, I feel like Mrs. Tiggywinkle with all of the hand laundry! At the back of the cabinet I found a box marked with a card, it turned out to be my grandmother's wedding negligee from 1919. The fine fabric is embroidered in satin stitch and french knot and bordered with delicate lacework. It brought a smile to my face, as my mother saved everything and also wrote descriptions and notes with her treasures. It is amazing the fine needlework that was done a century ago. Tomorrow I will repack all of the newly discovered fabrics and then begin
the ironing.

HURRAH ALICE!

2011-04-14T15:54:00.005-04:00

After much work and preparation, Alice started her CNA Clinical today, she looked ready and great in her uniform!

MORNING RAIN AND MANY SURPRISES!

2011-04-13T18:42:00.007-04:00

There were many Spring surprises in the early morning garden, the magnolia has bloomed, tiny buds are appearing on the peach tree, the peonies and red onions are peaking through, and the young lettuces are ready for salad making tonight.

SPRING WALK & GENEALOGY

2011-04-12T17:59:00.010-04:00

Part of my arthritis exercise regimen is brisk walking. Yoga practice is three days a week and walking fills in the other days. We started out on the Manasquan bike trail this morning. The trail was once a railroad track that went to Allenwood and then on to Camden and Philadelphia, it was built in 1870. The Atlantic View Cemetery runs alongside the trail and is the resting place of many of the area's original families. It was quite a surprise to find gravestones of the Mulfords, an old family name that goes back to South Jersey, and is worth further investigation. Another curious headstone was the one of Captain Asher Curtis, and it is a beautifully sculpted tree trunk. I later found out that this monument was created by Woodmen of the World, a fraternal organization, to honor their deceased. The founder, J. Cullen Root wanted all members to have a decent burial and gravestones were free of charge if a $100 rider was purchased when a member was initiated.
The practice ended in 1920, but Woodmen Memorial Day is still practiced on June 6 of each year.

CREATIVE NESTING

2011-04-11T18:06:00.007-04:00

Now that the chickens are free-ranging again, they have been copying many of the nesting techniques of the wild birds. Little nests are hidden away in the most surprising places. I spotted the first one this week, a moss and pine needle one next to the window air conditioner, one hidden on the back porch, and one from last year with sheep's wool woven through it. Goldie the chicken has made a very comfortable one for herself in the pansy flower box. The pansies were missing, but a nice, warm egg was there instead.

PRINCYCLOPEDIA 2011

2011-04-10T09:59:00.007-04:00

Princeton's Cotsen Children's Book Library annual show was a total Greek Mythology event based on Rick Riordan's book, "The Lightning Thief". We stepped into an amazing world of ancient Greece. We were greeted by a Parthenon ice sculpture and clashing Greek warriors. There was wine tasting for kids, ambrosia ice cream, consultations with the Oracle, and the Minotaur ride in the labyrinth. Relaxation from all of the events was a beautiful harp serenade, we felt as if we were on the pinnacle of Mount Olympus!

DAY IN NEW YORK & BROOKLYN

2011-04-09T06:37:00.005-04:00

It was a whirlwind day, alot of train travel and walking but it was a great day spent with daughters, Annie and Marie and their friends. Fred and I caught the commuter train from the shore to Hoboken. The ferry dropped us off in Battery Park and we walked up Broadway to Chinatown where we met everyone for lunch. Days and times like today are so special and the wonderful feelings last forever!

BABIES' BREATH FARM

2011-04-08T05:54:00.003-04:00

TO BROOKLYN WITH LOVE

2011-04-07T12:46:00.003-04:00

Springtime in New York! We will be visiting my daughter Marie, and Annie is coming in from New Orleans. It has been such a long time since we have seen them, it will be a joyful reunion!

THIS OLD HOUSE

2011-04-06T08:26:00.004-04:00

It is one of those expenses that could not be put off any longer, the expense of a new roof will curtail any vacation plans for a long time. Actually, we have gotten our money's worth, this is the first time that we have put a roof on the front part of the house in the 28 years that we have been here. The back section on the old Newton farmhouse was done 9 years ago, the week that Chris came home from the hospital. There is always some kind of expense in older home ownership, this year it was the hook-up to city sewer and some plumbing expenses. Plumbing has always been the major drawback here, you either have to have a separate plumbing fund or be a plumber. So we are here for the long haul, we have to live somewhere and the dream of moving to New York to the grape barn has been deferred for the time being.

RAINY DAY INTERLUDE

2011-04-05T14:15:00.005-04:00

A favorite getaway is The Showroom in Asbury Park. This is a cozy, storefront movie theatre where Fred and I saw "Tamara Drewe" - it is small with comfortable chairs and pillows.

BAMBOO HARVEST

2011-04-04T15:27:00.004-04:00

We have started to thin out the older bamboo now that the new young shoots are starting to peek through. It is quite labor intensive, they must be cut with a handsaw and the sharp stumps pounded back into the ground with a mallet. After the long stalks have dried for a week, the sharp branches are removed and set aside (The thin branches make terrific wreaths and decorations). The thickest bamboo will be used for gates, fences and obelisks.

MOTHERING SUNDAY

2011-04-03T18:22:00.001-04:00

Happy Mothering Sunday to All the English Mums!

MERLIN & CHRIS

2011-04-02T17:03:00.004-04:00

One of the true family bonding pleasures of the week is watching Chris at his riding lessons.
Merlin, the Welsh Pony is very gentle and eager to please. Chris enjoys working with him and seeing the other animals, the chickens, horses, bunnies and Jake, the pot-belly pig.

GREENHOUSE IN NORFOLK, UK

2011-04-01T08:53:00.002-04:00

LAST DAY IN MARCH

2011-03-31T12:28:00.004-04:00

MARCH is not going out like a lamb. It is cold, windy with fine misty rain which could turn to snow.

EASTER EGG DYEING

2011-03-30T08:11:00.007-04:00

Something different to try, traditional Easter Egg Dyeing with glitter. The results are very pretty and they really jazz up the baskets and centerpieces!

WINDY MARCH DANDELIONS

2011-03-29T17:05:00.003-04:00

SMOKEY S. VISITS THE VET

2011-03-28T11:23:00.006-04:00

Smokey Siamese has been sneezing at night for the last few days and acting a bit quiet. Since he was due for his annual checkup, I made a visit to the vet this morning. After breakfast he was groomed and ready to get into his cat carrier and go. The vet checked Smokey out and concluded that his night sneezing was probably due to a seasonal allergy and prescribed Lyzine Paste as a supplement. Otherwise, he is in fine health and was able to receive his boosters and a nail trim, and a new toothbrush.

SPRING RIDING

2011-03-27T08:29:00.003-04:00

Chris had his first riding lesson on this cold, crisp Spring morning.

TECH GUY

2011-03-26T10:49:00.005-04:00

We had an interesting evening at the Middle School last night, reviewing the accomplishments of the tech student presentations. Dessert including layer cake, coffee, cookies and brownies was served following the awards.

BOOKENDS

2011-03-25T09:27:00.002-04:00

We celebrated Bob's birthday with many stories, many plans and great surfer food!

SPRING SNOW

2011-03-24T11:00:00.005-04:00

The light dusting of spring snow that we have received in the last few nights has been pretty to wake up to. The buds on the peach tree are almost ready to open, and the cherry tree will be right behind it. The pansy faces are frosty and quite warm in their bamboo-lined pots. .

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2011-03-23T09:37:00.005-04:00

Happy Birthday Fred, my forever young, heart and soul man! Love, Cher

MILLENNIUM COFFEE

2011-03-22T09:30:00.004-04:00

I love a delicious cup of coffee, strong and hearty, freshly brewed early in the morning. I knew that when my Mr. Coffee coffeemaker finally expired, I would get back to basics and replace it with an electric percolator. My new Farberware Millennium coffee pot arrived the other day. It was the same type that I had received as a newlywed 38 years ago. It is simple, very heavy gauge metal parts, easy to clean, (no reservoir), takes up little counter space, and it perks!

BLUE VIOLETS

2011-03-21T09:08:00.002-04:00

GARDENING WITH CHICKENS

2011-03-20T10:39:00.007-04:00

Now that I am sharing the kitchen garden with my chickens, I have had to take extra care when planting the young seedlings. The lettuces and garlic chives are together in the plastic containers and the raised beds are covered. The bamboo hoop house is almost finished and the peas are secretly planted in covered spaces next to the bamboo.

WHEN THE CROCUSES BLOOM

2011-03-19T14:09:00.006-04:00

BUTTERFLIES AND SILKSCREEN

2011-03-18T08:59:00.005-04:00

Now that the studio is fixed up and the new silkscreen paper has arrived, I am starting a new printed series on butterflies. I have prepared the paper with ink in two colors and mica dust, so all of the backgrounds are different and the effects unexpected.

HAPPY ST PATRICK'S DAY!

2011-03-17T08:47:00.006-04:00

MOSAICS AT ST VLADIMIR RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH

2011-03-16T09:19:00.006-04:00

The one word for the glittering mosaics at St. Vladimir's Russian Orthodox Church is awe-inspiring. Tiny pieces of glass and stone make up the stylized figures on the exterior of this golden-domed Byzantine Church, built in 1938. Byzantine icon artists invented an ideal geometry and depicted human forms and features according to it. Here, the circle foms the underlying geometric figure, emphasized by the form of the haloed heads.

A ROYAL FIND!

2011-03-15T13:36:00.006-04:00

I love vintage, manual typewriters and I have been looking for a good, usable one for quite awhile to print my mimeograph stencils. Today, at the flea market in Cassville, I found two! One is a Smith-Corona, 1950's and in a case, the other a heavy black Royal, with glass-top keys and in excellent condition, probably 1940's. After Cassville, we drove on to New Egypt Agway to buy chicken feed, but I really wanted to see the new baby chick arrivals, the Buff Orpingtons and the Aracaunas, quite adorable, I have put them on my Wish List!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARIE!

2011-03-14T10:32:00.002-04:00

BEST WISHES AND LOVE to Our Daughter, Marie on her Birthday

THE AMAZING FRED

2011-03-13T09:41:00.003-04:00

The Amazing Fred and Chris were naturals at the Roller Rink birthday party yesterday. Fred kept apace with the 9 year olds and teenagers, only stopping to refuel on pizza and birthday cake.

MORNING AT CELTIC CHARMS

2011-03-12T17:45:00.006-05:00

Our grandson, Chris enjoyed visiting Celtic Charms farm today. He rode in the indoor rink, and enjoyed grooming the very affectionate Welsh pony, Merlin.

SHENANDOAH

2011-03-11T07:20:00.003-05:00

ENGLISH FOLKSINGER, BRAM TAYLOR VISITS NJ

2011-03-10T09:21:00.003-05:00

Bram Taylor, English Folk Singer from Manchester, England is back in New Jersey to appear for a whirlwind tour of the Garden State. We settled in at the Universalist Unitarian Congregation Hall in Toms River last night for a evening of varied English and American folk music. Together with his music and storytelling on guitar and concertina, and backup by Valerie Vaughn, we were treated to a wonderful evening of music and friendship.

FLEA MARKET ON TUESDAY

2011-03-08T22:42:00.008-05:00

Tuesday is always flea market day (weather permitting) at Rova Farms in Cassville. We have been coming here to 'treasure hunt' for many years. The restaurant which served breakfast and hosted important holiday events, such as Mother's Day and Father's Day is now closed. Such a shame not to be able to enjoy the large family gatherings and listen to traditional Russian folk music, dancing, carnations, and the food, chicken kiev, beef stroganoff, stuffed cabbage and warm, dark Russian bread. The Father's Day Dinner was the first time that our youngest daughter, Marie danced with Daddy, those were beautiful days.

WHAT I BOUGHT AT THE FLOWER SHOW

2011-03-08T07:30:00.004-05:00

Ancient Egypt used this plant as a writing material and for boats, mattresses, mats, rope, sandals, and baskets. It is Papyrus and it was for sale at the Philadelphia Flower Show, it is a bog plant and in the warmer weather, I will transplant it out by the pond, quite a find! My second plant purchase was an aromatic, scented geranium in nutmeg already flowering. We stood in line at the seed store and made some unusual purchases which you don't usually find in catalogues. Gardeners in line are extremely patient and love to offer tips on their growing successes, so it was an informational wait.

PARIS AT THE INTERNATIONAL PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW

2011-03-07T09:49:00.007-05:00

I had been waiting forever to take this trip with long ago coworkers and garden lovers to the Philadelphia Flower Show. I had not been to the flower show for several years and was wowed when the doors opened -- there was the Eiffel Tower and it was evening in Paris!
This show is so large, you really need 3 days just to see everything, so we tried not to waste any of the time that we had on lectures, even though we did go to the "Making a Rain Barrel and Mosquito Control". We were on the move, the Paris Underground (Catacombs) was quite unusual and interesting, the Biedermeier arrangements in the Austrian parlor quite colorful, opulent and gorgeous, but the bedroom with the canopy bed complete with rose duvet was spectacular!

MY FRIEND JOAN FROM GORLESTON UK

2011-03-05T21:19:00.006-05:00

So many thanks and appreciation to my friend, Joan, genealogist and writer from Gorleston, UK on my gggrandfather, Charles John Brooke's birthday, born on St. James Road, Croydon, Surrey and brought up in Gorleston. Without Joan's help, I would never have been able to retrace the past and discover the heritage, history and people of Gorleston.

FLOWER SHOPPING

2011-03-05T15:21:00.004-05:00

Today was my favorite kind of weather, cloudy, light wind and 50ish, perfect for going flower shopping at Patterson's farm. We purchased several large containers of pansies to put in the hanging containers on the porches. Fred is almost finished repairing the floor on the side porch, it only has to be painted as soon when the temperatures are warmer. After a brisk walk on the reservoir we headed to White Castle for lunch and back home to watch Chris build silverhawks on his computer.

FRIDAY...AT LAST!

2011-03-04T09:20:00.002-05:00

CELEBRATING WITH STRAWBERRY PARFAITS

2011-03-03T13:06:00.004-05:00

One of my new spring purchases, to jazz up my dark wood dining room is a thick pile, red Persian (copy) rug. It brightens up the room and feels cozy on the feet. To top off the stylish feeling, we made delicious strawberry parfaits:

STRAWBERRY PARFAITS (Makes 4)

1 large container of plain or vanilla yogurt
1 quart of fresh ripe strawberries, chopped
1 cup oatmeal
1 cup coconut
5T oil
4T honey

Mix oatmeal, coconut, oil and honey in large bowl and spread on a greased cookie sheet, place in 350 degree oven until golden brown. Place layer of yogurt in parfait glass first, then strawberries, and granola until filled.

WANDERLUST

2011-03-02T14:42:00.005-05:00

An unexpected, pleasure- reading package came in the mail yesterday. It was from my children in New Orleans, two magazines of BRITISH LIFE! The magazines are filled with the most beautiful photos of English countryside, villages, castles, seaside, nature and everything English. Annie and Ben must have felt my longing and desire to return to this special place. So, today in yoga meditation when our teacher told us to leave our bodies behind and travel to wherever we wanted, I did.

PHILADELPHIA SPRING

2011-03-01T10:33:00.003-05:00

THE KING'S SPEECH

2011-02-28T13:18:00.004-05:00

This is an amazing movie and we are off to see it for the third time tonight, our grandson has asked to see it with us. Addressing the subject of speech impairment provides an awareness of the many obstacles of frustration that children and adults face trying to express their thoughts and needs clearly.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CHICKEN IS SICK

2011-02-27T21:39:00.006-05:00

I have been watching our chicken, Reddy for the past few days. She has not seemed like herself, quite slowed down and not keeping up with the other chickens. After careful examination, I could find nothing wrong, so I spent alot of time just observing her. They say that when you suspect an illness, the sick chicken should be separated from the rest of the flock, but since nothing was apparent, I felt that the fresh air and sunshine and scratching around were the best therapy. Today she was better, just a little careful leaving the coop door and trailing behind the others, but she was more active and did take her own dust bath in the afternoon (total relaxation therapy for chickens). It was probably just Reddy's way of getting used to the change in seasons, after being cooped up most of this long winter and the excitement that Spring brings was probably so overwhelming to her!

BLACK HISTORY CELEBRATION - FRIENDS AND FAMILY REUNION

2011-02-26T20:16:00.006-05:00

We look forward to the last weekend in February as the special time that we visit with friends at the Annual Black History Celebration. It is an opportunity to experience warm fellowship, music, dance, inspirational speakers and of course, delicious food!

GETTING READY FOR SPRING!

2011-02-25T10:33:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, we racked the mulch off of the herb garden, fixed birdhouses and filled the feeders. It won't be long until the birds' return!

ON THE VERGE

2011-02-24T08:39:00.004-05:00

ART OF THE NJ STATE HOUSE

2011-02-23T08:04:00.009-05:00

The NJ State House maintains an extensive collection of art, from the oil portraits of each NJ Governor which line the rotunda gallery to the woodcarvings, rug and chandelier in the Assembly Room. The piece that I enjoy most is the Boehm Porcelain in the Legislative Wing corridor. This sculpture is named, "The Glory of New Jersey" and is a one of a kind porcelain which displays all of our state symbols. Male and female goldfinches, the honey bee, purple violets, and the red oak are all represented here in this amazing sculpture.

LINCOLN VISITS THE NJ STATE HOUSE

2011-02-22T07:38:00.005-05:00

President's Day was spent at a reenactment of Lincoln's address to the NJ Legislature.

BINDING MY TRAVEL PHOTOS

2011-02-21T11:18:00.005-05:00

I am finally getting around to finishing the bookbinding for my photos of dear England. I took over 500 pictures and have been making several books to house them in, the largest being 11" x 14". I have separated the photos according to town: London, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth and Norwich. The final book will be on the genealogy, that is the most time consuming. It is an overwhelming process, so I must do it "in-between projects!"

INDOOR GARDENING

2011-02-20T07:22:00.005-05:00

Who could resist those adorable Bonsai plants on a cold winter day! They give a jump start to Spring and brighten up the indoor scene. The elephant ear bulbs were also in and it is good to stock up on them before they sell out in April. Marie chose a Sago Palm Bonsai and Chris chose a Ponytail Bonsai and several bulbs. Marie is taking hers back to Brooklyn on the train.

JAPANESE TEA GARDEN

2011-02-19T11:09:00.005-05:00

The last exhibit that we visited yesterday at the Philadelphia Museum of Art was the Japanese Tea Garden. I am so glad that we saw it before catching our bus back to NJ. I always leave with such a feeling of peace and contentment and inspiration. Careful examination of their bamboo fence design has motivated me to start thinking about bamboo utilization in my new yoga room in the barn that I am planning for the Spring!

THE HOLIDAY AND MUSEUM BUS TRIP

2011-02-18T20:51:00.009-05:00

It was a beautiful day for a drive along the seashore heading up to the Highlands for a girls' night of movies and great food. After dinner at the Marina Diner, we settled in for a night of movies ("The Holiday" with Cameron Diaz & Kate Winslet) and feasted on unusual snack combinations
which included chocolate eclairs, bagel pretzels with spinach dip, chips and salsa, goldfish and chardonnay. In the morning, we headed for Brookdale for our bus trip to the Philadelphia Art Museum. We spent the early part of the day at the public tour of African American Art and the large scale paintings from India. Then across the street on the shuttle to the Perelman Building, with its beautiful art deco exterior ornament (office building transformed into museum annex)
to see "The Peacock Male: Exuberance and Extremes in Masculine Dress".

SHOPPING THE PAPER SOURCE

2011-02-17T07:28:00.006-05:00

One of my favorite stores to visit in Princeton is the Paper Source. But it is not a good place to take husbands and children. You have to fully immerse yourself in the visual experience without distraction and confusion. I love to browse the handmade paper collection, printed in 1 - 4 color silkscreen or handblocked. I usually zero in on one color (red today) and go from there. The prices are on the back ranging from $4.00 to $20.00 a sheet, 20" x 30". They also have a complete bookbinding area, it is a shop that you can spend a half a day in!

MAKING THE TOY THEATRE

2011-02-17T06:47:00.004-05:00

Today we went to Princeton with my grandson, Christopher for his ear doctor visit. We usually get an early morning appointment and spend the rest of the day on Princeton University campus. After lunch at the student center, we went to the Cotsen's Children's Library, a very special place for the imagination. The current exhibition, "Making the Toy Theatre" shows the wonderful work of Henry James Webb, English puppeteer and toy theatre maker. The creative process from drawing of the figures to the final ornamentation of the puppets using elaborate metal tinseling is featured in three large displays. Sadly, it is a forgotten children's past time of the 19th Century, when families would sit in front of the fireside for an evening of pantomine and toy theater.

MORE SHAKESPEARE

2011-02-16T06:47:00.003-05:00

VALENTINE BREAKFAST & PUTTING AWAY THE HOLIDAY DECORATIONS

2011-02-15T07:34:00.006-05:00

Fred and I packaged up our last minute Valentine's presents to take to the post office. But before they opened, we had a Full Valentine Breakfast at Connie's, our favorite early morning restaurant. We had eggs, pancakes, homefries, toast and coffee at our favorite table and talked about Spring plans and the day's activities of taking down the Holiday decorations.

LOVE BEADS AND LOVE!

2011-02-14T07:26:00.004-05:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to all my Sweethearts on this wonderful Day of Love! I enjoy looking at all of the mementos of years gone by, including my appleseed love beads, circa 1968. Love to all on this perfect day!

Bamboo Geek: Bamboo pruning tip: 'Legging Up' gives bamboo that classic look

2011-02-13T09:36:00.000-05:00

Bamboo Geek: Bamboo pruning tip: 'Legging Up' gives bamboo that classic look

STARTING HERBS

2011-02-12T19:09:00.005-05:00

It is never too early to start herbs indoors. I have thyme and basil in containers and have just started catnip seeds this weekend. It won't be too long before we can get outside and start getting the ground ready!

POSTERS WITH HEART

2011-02-11T20:06:00.006-05:00

THE POET OF LOVE

2011-02-10T23:01:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite poets is Walt Whitman. I was fortunate enough to find an illustrated, slip-cased copy of LEAVES OF GRASS at my used book store. This replaces my well-worn, paperback with the missing cover. It is a large edition with fine black and white lithographs and in quite good condition, and it was only $4.00! In the introduction, Whitman's masterpiece is referred to as a love letter to every reader. It is a proposal to the individual's love and respect of self, as in
"Song of Myself"-
I CELEBRATE MYSELF, and sing myself,
And what I assume, you shall assume,
For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you.