Wild Willow Basket

Made with hand spun wool, wild willow collected from the roadside, and a grapevine that was growing in our woods. (I need to make these a little more often...this is my first basket in almost two years.)

Sun Catcher

My first attempt at growing an amaryllis.

In the light of the setting sun

Surprise visitor

Look who came to my house today!

It is 20 degrees out and snowing, but somehow this butterfly showed up in my kitchen. I sprinkled some sugar water on the poinsettias for it. I'm not sure if she actually ate any, but is was the least I could do. Certainly can't stick her outside to freeze. I've never seen a butterfly in January before. Anyone have any idea what is going on here?

1/9/10 update--A blogger friend has identified the butterfly. Thanks Sandy for the the link!

Guest bathroom

The upstairs bathroom was remodeled shortly before we bought the house. I love the sink and tile countertop.
The glass block window-wall behind the bathtub lets in plenty of natural light and and provides privacy at the same time.

In the summer vines grown up around the glass wall outside. You almost have the feeling that you are bathing in a luxurious outdoor garden.

Upstairs Kitchen

Two views from the living room:


And then looking into the living room:

It is stocked with dishes and cookware and ready for use. :)

Before and after--guest bedroom

Our first project in our new home has been turning one of the bedrooms into a guest bedroom.

This room must have been a nursery at one time. I ripped out the ugly carpet, painted the battered up trim, and painted over the ocean scene on the walls.


Terry found just the right amount of maple wood flooring on Craig's list for pennies compared to what it would cost if we went and bought it at a home improvement store.

A free brass bed (also from Craig's List) and a quilt from the thrift shop complete the room.


The Before Pictures:


We would love to have you come and stay for a night or two. Our guests have lots of space and privacy, since Terry and I live downstairs and hardly every go upstairs, except for my treadmill and to do laundry. Coming in the next day or two will be photos of the guest bathroom, your private kitchen, lovely dining room and spacious living room. (Of course you still have the option of staying in the tree house, if you prefer. It is heated and is toasty warm. And was used this weekend by one of my brothers and pronounced very satisfactory.)