Back in 1917, when Delbert and Grace Meier had their American System Built home constructed, they built what would have then been called a coach house. This is where the couple would have parked their Model T or Monroe Roadster or whatever they were driving at the time. A small boxy structure, the carriage house is covered in the same stucco as the house and topped with the original slate roof. It’s no longer used for housing an automobile but it’s very much a useful part of the house.
I’ve been waiting all winter for this. Seriously, I sounded like a broken record all winter long. I can’t wait to get my hands on that window box, I would say over and over again. I’m going to plant some decorative grasses in there as soon as I’m able, I promised. Last weekend, I did just that. My next test in patience will be seeing if it grows!
I wish there was a scratch and sniff option for blogs. For only then could you know how this little vase of Lily of the Valley flowers on the bedside table has been such a treat. As I lay my head down on the pillow last night, I breathed in the sweet smell of the flowers and drifted off to a dreamland populated with wildflowers and overgrown prairies. Even as the cat roused me from my sleep with incessant imploring meows at sunrise (“Give me tuna!”) I breathed in deep and was once again at peace.
Thanks, Mother Nature, for your abundant spring treats. And a special thanks to our friend Joan for pointing out the Lily of the Valley plants growing in our front yard!
Image: This American House
With Memorial Day right around the corner, it’s officially outdoor entertaining time! We’ve been looking forward to grilling at the house all winter. With the garden planted, I’m envisioning wonderful later summer meals with homegrown veggies grilled in the backyard. But, first, we’ll need a grill. Which of these six will it be?
With 1,104-square-inches of cooking area, this grill is big enough to prep food for a whole herd of folks! Perhaps that’s why it’s called “The Ranch.” ($1,129)
This egg shaped grill doubles as a smoker. And it’s adorable to boot. I love adorable. ($354.13)
With its aluminized steel exterior and beer barrel shape, this grill would be perfect for tailgating. Measuring 22 x 22 x 28 inches, the Old Smokey is small enough to be easily transported but still offers plenty of grilling surface. ($63.95)
Perfect for a small space, the Stok includes a storage compartment that’s perfect for stashing a bag of charcoal and grilling tools. ($143)MORE GRILL POSTS FROM AROUND THE WEB
Images: Linked above
Did you know that asparagus is a perennial? And did you know that a healthy asparagus plant can continue growing for 20+ years? I certainly didn’t! In fact, I didn’t know very much at all about asparagus (aside from the obvious yumminess and after effects) until I discovered it growing in our garden.
