Sprucing up the Front Porch
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Sprucing up the Front Porch

Here is another project that started out simply, and then took on a life of its own. With all this time at home, I am noticing there are so many areas that need sprucing up. This includes the front porch. It all begins with the rocking chairs. The four rocking chairs on the front porch…

Propagating Roses
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Propagating Roses

I have always wanted to learn how to propagate roses, especially the antique ones we have at Bella Terra. With a clean potting shed (see yesterday’s post here) and sheltering in place time on my hands, I thought I would try this. Meet Quatre Saisons (Rose of the Four Seasons), R. damascene bifera). We have…

My Spring Planting Goals
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My Spring Planting Goals

Now that the freezing temperatures are behind us, it is time to start planting the Spring garden. The evenings are still cool and the days are nice and warm (but not too hot). I am often asked if it takes a great deal of time to garden. The answer is no. Some planting attention is…

Meyer Lemon Marmalade
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Meyer Lemon Marmalade

I stumbled across this 2008 recipe from Simply Recipes and just happened to have several Meyer lemons that needed to be used. I am one of those people who love marmalade~~on freshly made bread with a cup of tea or coffee. There is something so romantic and very British about it. Meyer lemons are a…

The Table is Set!
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The Table is Set!

I didn’t intend for the Thanksgiving centerpiece to match the artwork in the dining room but it happily does! Every few months I’ve been hanging different art, trying to find just the right piece. It’s easy to decorate the same way year after year and there’s comfort in that. But how do I use what…