What's Happening Around the Farm

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fo79H6h6ig/Wyb6nW8WSiI/AAAAAAAAOBg/fwr7g3Rxr9QV_w9U2Nk6-41V0wRyc9UtACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180428_090420_720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fo79H6h6ig/Wyb6nW8WSiI/AAAAAAAAOBg/fwr7g3Rxr9QV_w9U2Nk6-41V0wRyc9UtACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180428_090420_720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Hello friends, Thank you for all the lovely comments and the warm welcome back. <b>It's much appreciated</b>. I have to tell you the farm season is in <b>full swing</b> and I think this year will be the busiest and most challenging season but I'm ready to knock it out of the park.  </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We have so many home improvement and yard projects going on I can't even tell you.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>It's makeover central here.</b></span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onp3Huqwtg4/Wyb6qCTXDkI/AAAAAAAAOBk/Va58Qd58JWQQI0aKHpuyKsXYGtM0RC2gwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180430_081504_957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onp3Huqwtg4/Wyb6qCTXDkI/AAAAAAAAOBk/Va58Qd58JWQQI0aKHpuyKsXYGtM0RC2gwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180430_081504_957.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The <b>deck decor</b> is taking shape and I'm loving it. I would love to add pillows and outdoor carpets for<span style="color: lime;"> color</span> but I have to be practical people,, <b>we live on a farm</b>. The outdoor cats or the goats would eat them the first night I have them out.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Farm problems * heavy sigh*</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rf_MHQMxUEQ/Wyb6uo_JuCI/AAAAAAAAOBo/OC9XQxZ4NGsat0vSfuIy3yiLp7fB7z8mQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180511_142252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rf_MHQMxUEQ/Wyb6uo_JuCI/AAAAAAAAOBo/OC9XQxZ4NGsat0vSfuIy3yiLp7fB7z8mQCLcBGAs/s320/20180511_142252.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I'm</span> <span style="font-size: large;">becoming the queen of dividing and propagating.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> That's right lots of how- to articles coming up on how to multiply that stuff so it <b>saves you money and beautifies your yard.</b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Think <span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">colorful plants </span><b><span style="background-color: white;">e</span>verywhere.</b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;">OOOh AWWWWW</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fAdUY47Jjl8/Wyb6x2vUdKI/AAAAAAAAOBs/acWZ_xE8hS4QkPyO0SEUFc3dmsmKSyJpQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180506_160932_287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fAdUY47Jjl8/Wyb6x2vUdKI/AAAAAAAAOBs/acWZ_xE8hS4QkPyO0SEUFc3dmsmKSyJpQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180506_160932_287.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The goaties have been <b>naughtier than ever</b>. The lil turkeys refuse to stay in their pens. They keep hanging out at our neighbors who haven't mown their fence<i> like in forever </i>so the goats think it's a lot more fun over there. Waaaayyyyyy more to chow down on.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I was late to a birthday party last night and was late to church a few Sundays ago.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Let me tell you how fun it is telling your preacher I was late because I was chasing my goats. <b>Really</b>. <b>I was</b>.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I had to tell them a few months ago my dog ate my work. My dog really did eat my paperwork.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <span style="font-size: large;">                        <i>They just roll their eyes at me and smile.</i></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;">                                        * heavy sigh*</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6P7H0F_6P0/Wyb63Z_dR_I/AAAAAAAAOB0/iuVpm9oFR4wX49v4ZrrXfhDr16hLW-dXQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180524_085559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6P7H0F_6P0/Wyb63Z_dR_I/AAAAAAAAOB0/iuVpm9oFR4wX49v4ZrrXfhDr16hLW-dXQCLcBGAs/s320/20180524_085559.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now if you've been around here much before you know my dad is like the <b><i>King of Moonflowers</i></b> and they are<b> FINALLY</b> starting to spread all over the farm.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br />Yippee.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">If you don't have any. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Try them.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">You will thank me.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F2KLlxUDeOc/Wyb6682TuiI/AAAAAAAAOB4/K2AkM81bUKEA4ZGQ1QP2UE0camTJRsmxACLcBGAs/s1600/20180512_165217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F2KLlxUDeOc/Wyb6682TuiI/AAAAAAAAOB4/K2AkM81bUKEA4ZGQ1QP2UE0camTJRsmxACLcBGAs/s320/20180512_165217.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">BBQ season is in full swing. Just had our 2nd one we hosted here at the farm today and have already attended one.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I have so much to do outside.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">So many new recipe ideas too. Stay tuned.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TzPpyk6usx8/Wyb7Ae20IuI/AAAAAAAAOCA/3nGQlt1OoQwFEPeWwJ54zmKIKoGF1tLKQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180528_143958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TzPpyk6usx8/Wyb7Ae20IuI/AAAAAAAAOCA/3nGQlt1OoQwFEPeWwJ54zmKIKoGF1tLKQCLcBGAs/s320/20180528_143958.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">See these funky leaves below? As soon as they are finished blooming these <b>over the top tropical flowers....</b> I'm finally going to divide them. They are a special variety of lily. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Very elegant.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">A sweet friend gave me a bulb a few years ago. Her son grew them in his high-school Ag class. Sadly, he passed away and gardening was a refuge for her to get through his death. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">She was kind enough to share one with me to celebrate our friendship and I will treasure them always.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"><b><i>Garden people are the nicest people.</i></b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Even if you don't garden and like flowers and only live in an efficiency apt. start with a few pots and meet other people who garden .</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">They will be <b>friends for life.</b></span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1CD7jalLp-8/Wyb7DyewgYI/AAAAAAAAOCI/adZ4LSPK-PAa2k19LG1PIDOGXs8Lg0sRACLcBGAs/s1600/20180511_142940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1CD7jalLp-8/Wyb7DyewgYI/AAAAAAAAOCI/adZ4LSPK-PAa2k19LG1PIDOGXs8Lg0sRACLcBGAs/s320/20180511_142940.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now if you'll please excuse me I have to get back outside. We are getting a new pool soon and where we are putting it has been abandoned for like a year and I need to fix it.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">* heavy sigh*</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Happy Father's Day weekend to those of you who celebrate it.<br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I got to spend time with my favorite fellas, my daddy, my hubby and my son.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">My heart is thankful.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now seriously go buy a plant on clearance and start gardening.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div> <br /></div>

What's Happening Around the Farm

Hello friends, Thank you for all the lovely comments and the warm welcome back. It's much appreciated . I have to tell you the far...

8 Easy Spring Plants You Can Grow Almost Anywhere

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dIHbas0Fzvc/WxcG7yyWv3I/AAAAAAAAOAY/pvhSpZjhrF8C0pCyw515abn9j19bTt6kACLcBGAs/s1600/20180601_101945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dIHbas0Fzvc/WxcG7yyWv3I/AAAAAAAAOAY/pvhSpZjhrF8C0pCyw515abn9j19bTt6kACLcBGAs/s320/20180601_101945.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It's <span style="color: red;"><b>hot</b></span>!. I mean <span style="color: red;">H....O....T</span>. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Slap yo momma (It's the name of a seasoning that's great on bbq. I promise.)</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Get flipped off by the other drivers...</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Get stuck at a red light  with 2 half dressed girls singing, "It's Getting Hot in Here So Take off All Your Clothes," at the top of their lungs... <span style="color: red;">hot</span>.<b><u> ( It happens to me every year, I'm not kidding)</u></b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Yep, that's how we know flower season has arrived in Oklahoma.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It also means I enjoy staying home and enjoying the flowers all over the farm while the rest of the world loses it and walks around half-dressed.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">So let's talk about drought tolerant flowers that you will totally enjoy year after year that won't break the bank and will make you smile....in your own little flower paradise.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Above we have the <span style="color: #e06666;">Knock-Out Rose Bush</span> - It grows large and is fairly low maintenance, unless of course you are me and your goats keep eating them.😜 </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now yes it's a bush but it's a flowering bush so it counts.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XRx1vVCZA7I/WxcG-NTwFiI/AAAAAAAAOAc/kEQ1JXb8_DMr2m3UX5gUpvLpKpuRV5MUQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180601_101914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XRx1vVCZA7I/WxcG-NTwFiI/AAAAAAAAOAc/kEQ1JXb8_DMr2m3UX5gUpvLpKpuRV5MUQCLcBGAs/s320/20180601_101914.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Next, we have the Canna. It's beautiful, luscious- comes in multiple colors, blooms and multiplies.   </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;">What's not to like.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQQ3v6u3AqQ/WxcHDlEi_BI/AAAAAAAAOAo/wPxw3oXdBPQOf2qgn__dHAvyfBTeyCV6gCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_124101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQQ3v6u3AqQ/WxcHDlEi_BI/AAAAAAAAOAo/wPxw3oXdBPQOf2qgn__dHAvyfBTeyCV6gCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_124101.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Then we have a real<i style="background-color: lime;"><b> exotic</b></i>, color popping flower - the <span style="color: lime;"><i>Asiatic Lily</i></span>. It's a showpiece. Sip a margarita and just sit and enjoy her blooms. They really are that beautiful.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6us0OzjZgs0/WxcHFg8lAWI/AAAAAAAAOAw/dTmPO6JTY0kQ58N18jZavdld8lVG8K8dQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_124104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6us0OzjZgs0/WxcHFg8lAWI/AAAAAAAAOAw/dTmPO6JTY0kQ58N18jZavdld8lVG8K8dQCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_124104.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"><i>Moss Roses</i></span> <span style="background-color: white;">are just colorful and fun an</span><span style="background-color: white;">d</span> if you are in Zone 7 or above they will come back year after year. I love that they spread and provide constant <span style="color: cyan;">color.</span></span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ron_3iovuKU/WxcHH5gmr-I/AAAAAAAAOA0/XEb7sVmc414LJL1u24G7JnWZ1sn-trE6wCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_124113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ron_3iovuKU/WxcHH5gmr-I/AAAAAAAAOA0/XEb7sVmc414LJL1u24G7JnWZ1sn-trE6wCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_124113.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">A Sedum groundcover is never a bad investment. A lady put this out on the side of the road and I picked it up like 4 years ago and have done nothing but water it a few times a year.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WrjSWsi-5ls/WxcHKuhHfQI/AAAAAAAAOA4/L5DA9wejBWEq5_lTsYzVYjuLE2EMSpOeQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_124119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WrjSWsi-5ls/WxcHKuhHfQI/AAAAAAAAOA4/L5DA9wejBWEq5_lTsYzVYjuLE2EMSpOeQCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_124119.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Per</span><span style="font-size: large;">haps one of my favorites is<span style="color: purple;"> Salvia</span>. This is a great flower because it's pretty and for those of us who have a hard time with <i><span style="color: purple;">Lavender</span></i>, this smells so good and looks pretty. It grows and comes back year after year in my pots.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I get so many compliments on them.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">This one above I just planted and in a few weeks it will fill the pot.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5Q6io17F9M/WxcHkZ0PfCI/AAAAAAAAOBQ/fzzcN1Dv5tsdkbM492ceP5DtfEP224UwwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_123617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5Q6io17F9M/WxcHkZ0PfCI/AAAAAAAAOBQ/fzzcN1Dv5tsdkbM492ceP5DtfEP224UwwCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_123617.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The <span style="color: orange;">Tiger Lily</span> is an excellent investment and if you can get a few bulbs from a friend or neighbor's garden, you will be set in a few years, if you keep dividing them. They are striking, colorful and hardy.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYDidBe2iuc/WxcHSn9hwMI/AAAAAAAAOBE/m7MjrBfHjqsv5z-JKVtMNdzCjNfvTa1CQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180601_102011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYDidBe2iuc/WxcHSn9hwMI/AAAAAAAAOBE/m7MjrBfHjqsv5z-JKVtMNdzCjNfvTa1CQCLcBGAs/s320/20180601_102011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Last but not least, the flowering <i><span style="color: yellow;">Forsythia bush</span></i>. The <span style="color: yellow;">yellow</span> let's you know Spring is here. I keep trying to add to my collection every year. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Nothings SCREAMS Spring like the color yellow.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><i>These have already bloomed, sorry. </i></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">My favorite season. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Again, it's a bush but it has blooms and it signals the start of Spring so I included it.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now if you have questions or ideas let me know. I'd love to hear what your favorite Spring flowers are.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I bought a fairly decent amount of plants on clearance for  whopping $28 that I need to get in the ground and am praying for more rain.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">What have you been up to?</span></div> <span id="goog_511794821"></span><span id="goog_511794822"></span><br /></div>

8 Easy Spring Plants You Can Grow Almost Anywhere

It's hot !. I mean H....O....T .  Slap yo momma (It's the name of a seasoning that's great on bbq. I promise.) ...

Flags, Flowers and Family

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bk54_kHK7n4/WwwykOUBPsI/AAAAAAAAN_k/dBkNrP1NsD0gHE_SGmtIIRxJrF6u4yuyACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180515_190152_506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bk54_kHK7n4/WwwykOUBPsI/AAAAAAAAN_k/dBkNrP1NsD0gHE_SGmtIIRxJrF6u4yuyACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180515_190152_506.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">Well hello there my friends.</span> I may very well be talking to myself since it's been almost a<u> full</u> year since I last checked in. It wasn't intentional by any means...we live in the country and the internet is for the birds. Finally, got something back up and working. I can't wait to catch up with everyone and see what you all have been up to. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">As for me, I'm just taking it one day at a time, doing life the Valerie way-it's been a long rough 12 months filled with a lot of loss but somehow Spring came around again (even though it's really been short) and it's already time for Memorial Day.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> How'd that happen?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>I mean really? </b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It was just Christmas. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It's already garden season and I'm behind again.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We've had 2 temps here that make life hard for farmers- soaking wet and hot. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It's a scorcher today and our fields are too wet to till. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Mother Nature did pull out a few showstoppers though- check out my climbing rosebush above. I'm about to propagate the heck out of her so we can have her beauty all over the farm. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7H1nMMyFtaU/Wwwym8yADEI/AAAAAAAAN_s/hYtuUhJp8_sKuhPVYk4reLStLQwo1vVkACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180506_160932_287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7H1nMMyFtaU/Wwwym8yADEI/AAAAAAAAN_s/hYtuUhJp8_sKuhPVYk4reLStLQwo1vVkACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180506_160932_287.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The goats are as cute and ornery as ever. I mean if you want to love a creature and get exercise all at the same time, get a goat. Like multiples. They really love to be in pairs and you will burn twice the calories.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJ4cpzSYURA/WwwylqhL5XI/AAAAAAAAN_o/XP0QxZjbax89O0fQew-TAdqCvtOYeHSSwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180518_180344_606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJ4cpzSYURA/WwwylqhL5XI/AAAAAAAAN_o/XP0QxZjbax89O0fQew-TAdqCvtOYeHSSwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180518_180344_606.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">As for the family part, the hubby and kids keep me busy as ever and the farm is about to be invaded by children all Summer-just the way I like it. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NbWzkfJAITU/WwwypNuK1gI/AAAAAAAAN_0/IgSE1c1Ze1kn3ADvfwIFO1TiG3ENn2JwgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180426_110838_042.jpg" /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Apparently, we are going to throw the ultimate 10 year old birthday party for my son in July. He's already handing out invites to everyone we know. I may have 1/2 the county at my house.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> Geez Louise right?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The rosebush above is one of many my stepmom had me plant at the farm for her a year ago December. Sadly, we lost Kaye suddenly in August. It's been heart wrenching for us all especially my dad.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cjpRumFbRHw/Wwwyx51lB5I/AAAAAAAAN_4/11P8LjsJFC86hZt6Q3SmtNloUF6J3Ow1ACLcBGAs/s320/20180429_152602.jpg" /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">He still hasn't joined us at the farm yet. They have a place all set up here and we keep praying he will come out sooner vs later. He comes for the day and I tell you the dude can work circles around us all.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Why didn't I get that energy?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AGbkdi_D_UM/WwwyoVthZWI/AAAAAAAAN_w/ejM7HfnyoqUDgXEnyv4F6zgOEnynRX4nwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180428_090420_720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AGbkdi_D_UM/WwwyoVthZWI/AAAAAAAAN_w/ejM7HfnyoqUDgXEnyv4F6zgOEnynRX4nwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180428_090420_720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I got my old baker's rack all set up with plants again this year and NO I still haven't painted the glider the neighbor sent down years ago. I'm really going to get it done this year.    </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">                                </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">For real.  </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">  I am.    </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Quit shaking your head, it's going to get done. Wink.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now for the flags I've got to go get them up.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> It's Memorial Day. What are you up to?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXOXO,</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">If you'd like to see some of my past Summer Decorating Ideas check them out <a href="http://www.cottagemakingmommy.com/2016/05/10-magnificent-ideas-to-celebrate.html">here</a>.</span></div> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /></div>

Flags, Flowers and Family

Well hello there my friends. I may very well be talking to myself since it's been almost a full year since I last checked in. I...