Spring Thoughts, Vintage Living

"He is not here; for he has risen, as he said." Matthew 28:6a

I hope everyone had a blessed Resurrection weekend! We had friends from the Atlanta area {that we haven't seen in years} stay at the Cottage for the weekend! It was a good time of "catching up", productively working on outdoor projects together, and sharing about our homesteading vision.

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Lately I've really been in a "reflective state of mind" thinking about:

*The Death, Burial, and Resurrection of our Lord (!!!)

*My responsibility as a daughter, sister, friend, light for Christ

*Using this time (while I'm unmarried) to be as productive/industrious as I can. Now that I've graduated, I have alot more extra time and many resources.

*Growing in my knowledge of scripture...not just head knowledge, but applying it to my daily walk, and hiding/memorizing verses in my heart.

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Apron in the making....

I purchased 2 yards of gingham checked fabric, and am attempting to hand sew a 19th century apron. I'm using this free pattern HERE for directions. My project is half done, but I'm enjoying the outdoors so much, that I've been neglecting it. I'll bring it into the woods w/ me tomorrow and stitch there.

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Speaking of the woods, now you know about my favorite hiding place :)

The dappled light, whispering winds, sounds/antics of surrounding birds and nature is the perfect atmosphere for prayer and thoughts.....and photography :)

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By the by, I was wondering if anyone of you can identify this flowering tree. It stands out in a lovely shade of fragrance-free purple blossoms, with delicate green foliage. If I can find a smaller tree, I may try transplanting it nearer to the Cottage :)

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My Mother has been working diligently on the front porch and her Herb garden area :)

"But a wife's ministry of mercy reaches outside her own doors. Every true home is an influence of beauty in the community where it stands." J.R. Miller 'Homemaking' 1882

As we've been working on fixing up the Cottage this past year, it's been encouraging to see the positive {and curious!} response from our neighbors! This morning as my Mother and I were working outside, an older woman stopped by just to encourage us; and invited us to come fish 'over yonder' at her pond anytime :) Which is exciting to me, because I love to go fishing when I get an opportunity!

Getting to know our neighbors/gaining their trust is really important to us, especially since we're in a moderately rural area.
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My strawberries have multiplied! I haven't separated the runners though, so now they've become established. I'll just see what they do, and I may transplant later. maybe.
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"God grant that I may live upon this earth

And face the tasks which every morning brings

And never lose the glory and the worth

Of humble service and the simple things."

Edgar A. Guest
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Today my sister and I dressed 1950's style...

We discovered some Carolina Jasmine vines near the woods, so I tucked a few sprigs into my hair, and turned on the record player to enjoy the vintage melodies indoors.

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My sister coming inside to join me...
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We took some antique books with us outside to read in the shade of the Oak tree
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I so enjoy the bursts of color of these vibrant flowers as I walk up to the back of the property.

Spring is officially here!!