It’s a New Year so Now What?
| | | | | | | | |

It’s a New Year so Now What?

Many people are already into week 2 of no Christmas decorations and have accomplished several new projects, but I am just chugging along intentionally, enjoying the process of taking down and packing away. But my mind is constantly thinking of how I plan to make 2025 a year of accomplishments. My resolution theme seems to…

Crafting Rustic Elegance: Upcycling Logs into Centerpieces and a Giveaway
| | | | |

Crafting Rustic Elegance: Upcycling Logs into Centerpieces and a Giveaway

At an elevation of 7,000 feet, our mountain cabin is surrounded by the natural beauty of the White Mountains and the Apache/Sitgreaves National Forest, with more than two million acres and more than 400 species. When our trees die or become unhealthy, it is important to remove them as part of healthy forest management. Our community…

3 Thanksgiving Centerpieces using Plants, Flowers and Fruits
| | | | | | | | | | | |

3 Thanksgiving Centerpieces using Plants, Flowers and Fruits

Each Thanksgiving I try and do a unique centerpiece that reflects the harvest and a season of gratitude. I love using fresh potted plants because I can plant them in the yard or planters after the holiday dinner is over. It may seem counterintuitive to be planting in late November or early December, but it…

Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts
| | | | | |

Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts

My first experience with warm, delicious apple cider doughnuts was 10 years ago visiting my son at the University of Virginia. It was October 2014 and we visited Carter Mountain Orchard in Charlottesville~~where they served WARM apple cider doughnuts. I was in love. Every trip back for the next 4 years included a trip to…

How to Make Your Own Pinecone Fire Starters
| | | |

How to Make Your Own Pinecone Fire Starters

With cooler weather either here or on the horizon, we all dream of cozying up in front of a roaring fire. With a plethora of pinecones falling this year around our mountain cabin, I try my hand at making my own pinecone fire starters. These fire starters make wonderful holiday gifts too. Join me in…