Like champagne, baguette, and macaron, the beret is an iconic symbol synonymous with France. Berets were originally worn by French shepherds centuries ago. They believed (correctly) that if wool could keep sheep cool in summer, dry in inclement weather, and warm in winter, the same principle should work for them. Their crude, wool… Continue reading The French Beret…
Author: aprescconwhyte
The Collapse of Civility?…
I, like many of you, was so happy on December 31 when the clock struck midnight flipping the calendar over to a new year, 2021. It was to be a fresh start, full of promise. The vaccine for Covid 19 was approved, soon we would be reconnected with friends and family and the economy could… Continue reading The Collapse of Civility?…
The Upside of Lockdown…
Once the Christmas tree is down, the lights come off the hedges and the remainder of the holiday decorations are put away, I'm usually motivated to clean up the house...a new year tradition. Decluttering my closet is typically the first order of business (this year was no different) and then I start thinking about refreshing… Continue reading The Upside of Lockdown…
Should I…or Shouldn’t I…
When it comes to painting, I'm not one to procrastinate (usually), but when deciding whether I should paint the hardwood floor in my living room, I'll admit I've waffled back and forth for months. I knew once I made the first swath across the floor with a loaded paintbrush, there would be no turning back!… Continue reading Should I…or Shouldn’t I…
Joyeux Noel
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas... ...with some time to relax, reflect, and daydream ... Spring is just around the corner... xox Judy
A Blue Christmas…
A BLUE CHRISTMAS When I listened to Elvis Presley sing "A Blue Christmas" in years past, I had no idea what that would look like or how I would feel. Many of us will be alone for Christmas this year. Yes, it's different, and it will be sad...no doubt it will be a tough holiday… Continue reading A Blue Christmas…
The Campaign for Wool…
This green sheep drawing is the logo of the "The Campaign for Wool" which was launched in 2010 in an effort to make wool fashionable again. Prince Charles is the Patron of The Campaign of Wool. Wool once a mainstay of the United Kingdom economy (the world actually), has fallen out of… Continue reading The Campaign for Wool…
Trimming the tree…
Trimming Christmas Trees has been happening for hundreds of years. Originally a pagan practice, the Christmas tree then became a part of Christian religious celebrations, and today it's central to the holiday tradition of many. (More history of the Christmas Tree is on the December 8, 2017 blog post.) In earlier days,… Continue reading Trimming the tree…
Home…
Like many of you, I feel like our world has been turned upside down. The days slip by, but every day is the same as the last, and there's been nothing to look forward to. Now we are under another 3-week restricted shutdown... By the end of November, I usually have the house decorated...or at… Continue reading Home…
Forcing Beauty… with seasonal bulbs
Forcing bulbs (by tricking to bloom out of season) marks the beginning of the holiday season at my house...Paperwhites (Narcissus Tazetta) being my favourite. I know many of you dislike the scent of Paperwhites, but to me, it is the sweet smell of Christmas! I also love the way they look en masse...the more, the… Continue reading Forcing Beauty… with seasonal bulbs