My Grama's Soul

June is always the hottest month in  Arizona. That is why, if you are able, one must surround your home with as much  GREEN  as possible.  Here, in the desert, much of what we see during summer months is brown...brown....brown. So that is why Brad and I chose this little spot in order that we would feel as though we LIVED in a greenhouse. These photos are from both inside and outside our home.  Every room has something live growing.... When you walk into our home you are looking directly into our backyard via huge glass windows. I know....one might feel as though you were in a jungle...but it makes everything feel so very cool and refreshing. These plants are in my kitchen on an elevated bar area...I have a huge skylight...so they get that much needed light.  Moisture from the faucet does not hurt as well. By our front door....requires little light. Good old pothos in the b...

It has been just a little over one year since we downsized into this little spot of ours.  A year of both sadness and multiple blessings.  We have made a few changes to the inside of the house and the yard.  Wanted to show some of the changes we came up with by using old stuff in a new way. I believe the most difficult aspect of moving is how you will use your existing things since we certainly could not afford to go out and buy all new.    As I indicated in a previous post, I only kept what I LOVE and that in itself was a huge undertaking.  Using old things in new ways to bring back memories and smiles.  In the photo above I hung all my Chinese Lanterns and umbrellas from my porch ceiling.  It is a fairly high ceiling for a porch and I figured they could be installed there with little effort.   That way they can be put to use instead of being stored away;  reminding me of the many trips we have made around our country ...

Here it comes............. ENJOY!! Art:  Maria Pace Winters hugs, Jo

My wonderful husband and I have moved 7 times during our 36 years together.  Each move has been to a wonderful  location....and this most recent one is no exception.   This little house has  many, many wonderful features....but one of my favorites has been the existing chandelier that is hanging in the dining room. Every time we have moved I have wanted to replace the existing fixture in the dining area.....not this time.   When we first moved I thought I wanted a different fixture hanging here...but as we have lived here with our things and fine tuned here and there...I've come to absolutely LOVE this hanging over our dining room table.  We had to take it apart when we painted and had to clean everyone of the glass rods before reassembling....but it is now so beautiful I could not think of another one to put in its place. I've hung the little beaded garlands for the holidays but usually it is just plain.  We have in...

so simple....... so lovely......... ~~~~~~ Hugs, Jo sign by Style Carrot

I love peonies They are only available in AZ for a short period of time.  I don't believe they can be grown here because of the immense heat during the summers and because of our low humidity...although what do I know, since I have never grown any. lOl Found this beautiful bunch at my local Trader Joe's for $6.99 a bunch.  That is a great value since they are $10.99 to $12.99 everywhere else.  I buy them when I see them come in as they are not here for long.....and nothing makes my heart sing like PEONIES. xo Jo

Who says you can't have a rainforest in Arizona? I am out to prove them wrong.  These are pics of my front court yard this summer.  Full of palms, trees, shrubs and flowers..... The spider plants you see in the foreground....are mostly volunteers.  I started with one plant about three inches tall....and they just keep multiplying over the years. The huge ferns in back I have had for over 20 years. What always amazes me is how with ll5 degree summers and freezing winters these things just thrive and multiply. Another peek through my palms....painted the chairs this summer...fun...fun colors. This little sign is always on my porch.  It hangs about my fountain that runs 24/7....maybe it helps...who knows?  LOL LOL I hope everyone is having fun with their summer gardens this year....you know what they say...."more is more". hugs, Jo

Just sharing....... xo Jo

Please pick a bunch!! Happy Valentine's Day to All xo Jo

Yes....October 3rd is the day I was  born.  Was born in Germany.....right after the war....as my father was stationed there. Came to the states when I was around 3 or 4 years old...and have never returned to Germany...although I would like to someday. You know it is interesting.....I don't feel 66...oh I have a few aches and pains...but in my head I'm still the youthful woman who looked forward to a life full of promise and adventure.....and I am so very grateful that that wish has been fulfilled. O.K. enough about my birthday....let's see a few photos of where we have been. These shots were taken along the road through Wyoming heading down to Colorado. Stayed in Fort Collins Colorado for a few days.  It is home to Colorado State University and while driving through the University spotted this spectacular sight. Can you believe this feast for the eyes. Here are a few close shots.... I will tell you....that f...