Summer Recap

My Dears,

How has the summer been treating you? If you are anything like me, then you're certainly counting the days till the autumn equinox. The summer heat does not become me, but I must make do with Mother Nature's season of warmth..and believe me, I have.

This year's annual Independence Day Edwardian/ Vintage picnic was truly a blast. My darling friend Heather came over the night before to help me prep. When morning came around Heather and I wasted no time. Sandwiches were prepared as were other edibles for the party. My fella arrived early enough to lend a hand. Together we three got the tables set up in the canopy/gazebo and readied the garden for an afternoon of vintage frolic and bliss. By the time our first guest arrived, we were dressed and ready to entertain.

My sweetheart and I

The absolutely lovely Heather

Lost in time...

Our sweet friend Jenn who looked lovely in her 20's frock, set up the wickets around the lawn for our usual game of extreme croquet. Heather made sure to keep everyone's spirits high by her steady supply of frozen gin & tonics. *smiles* The tables were laden with yummy picnic fare and the mood in the air was bright and festive. Music from the teens/2o's/30's/& 40's kept us tapping our toes and some of us even tripped the light fantastic.

Aptly named extreme croquet due to the non-traditional
way the wickets are placed around the flower beds.

Pondering my next move..

A view to the past...

Indeed it was a wonderful party..a moment in time...the days of old. My thanks to Bill whose lens always captures our parties beautifully...and to Zaida who makes sure these photos get to me. *hugs!*

So you see, I am trying to enjoy the summer as best as I can. My fella and I even decorated the canopy/gazebo and created an outdoor room. A small table with two chairs..a wicker sofa..dragonfly lantern lights and a curtained wall make for a cozy retreat. The coffee table and chaise lounge will follow in a week. We have spent many a lovely time inside our outdoor retreat, listening to music while enjoying candlelit dinners and nitecaps.

My sweet and humble retreat rests under the shade of the linden tree. This is where I go to relax with a book and a nice cold drink or perhaps a soothing cup of tea. I keep adding plants to my surroundings and also a plethora of solar lanterns to light my way in the evening. ..especially the breezy evenings when I can just lie down and linger languorously, watching the light bugs as they twinkle brightly in the garden and listen to the crickets serenading me through the night.

...lingering languorously.

Ready for company..


That's Sir Twigginham on the right near the fence.
My fella gave him that name. *smiles*
He's also responsible for setting up this corner of the garden.


My garden crystal ball...


...and my handsome fella who captured this lovely set of photos.
Thanks honey! ~~x~~

So until the first autumn breeze places its crisp kiss upon my cheek, I shall just grin and bear the rest of the summer. I guess it isn't so bad when such fun is to be had. What say you? *winks*

In the meantime, how about a cup of tea?


Enjoy the rest of this summer....blissfully!

xoxo
Miss Sandra

Dreaming Of Winter

My Dears...

I've been daydreaming of a nice bowl of stew...a roaring fire in the hearth...a cup of hot cocoa with melting Peeps...and a blanket of snow outside my door. It's on days like today when I really miss being outdoors making snow angels. So in lieu of the real thing, here are a couple of videos to keep you all cozy, comfy, and cool!!!

Enjoy my dear friends!

xoxo
Miss Sandra

From Where Mr. Knightley Sits..

Dear Bloggers..

I see that "Mama" hasn't posted since the beginning of the month. I thought it would behoove me to hijack her computer and post something before her followers drop off..due to lack of prose of course. I know how much she enjoys this blog and sharing with you the tidbits of her life. No doubt she'll be back soon enough when the mood strikes...and no doubt she'll have something interesting to share...perhaps not as interesting as my own musings, but she does try.

I guess I should wish you all a Happy Summer on her behalf, for I know she would do so. She's been out and about in this dreadful heat..to and from work..out with the fella..or out in the garden. This weather is simply for the birds...now I know why they call it the "dog" days of summer. *grins* I won't say she enjoys the summer heat, for I know she doesn't. She's a winter gal you know. Anyhow.. *coughs* "Cchheh..cchheh!!" Oh! Pardon me...I do shed more at this time of year you know. Where were we? Ahh yes...summer and Mama. Oh never mind..that isn't interesting anyway. Let's talk about me.

Let's start with that dreadful picture of me that "MOTHER" shared in her most recent post. Had I known she was going to do that, I would have taken over the database and erased all those incriminating shots. Would you all believe me if I told you that the cat lying prostrate in slumber on the orange couch wasn't me? It was my cousin Harold who was visiting from England. He's quite fond of the refreshing cup or should I say bowl? So, I celebrated his arrival by opening a bottle of Pimm's. As you can see by the photo, he drank more than his fare share. Quite rude, I might add, to behave in such a manner on his first visit to the states. *pauses to lick paw*

"Ahem!" Needless to say, please disregard that odious photo of me..errr I mean my cousin Harold.

Oh dear...I do believe I hear Mama stirring about. I guess I better log off before she catches me at her "post". I suppose I should bid you all a fine evening..or day..depending on when you're reading this. Stay cool in the heat and keep away from the Pimm's..after all, you saw what it did to poor Harold.
*startled pause* Oh no..I feel a hairball coming up!

Until The Next....for you know I'll have plenty to say. *mischievous grin*

Mr. Knightley
(cat extraordinaire)

"Cchheh..cchheh!!.....drats!"

Of This And That And Bliss!

outdoor dining by candlelight

My Dears,

How lovely to be back amongst you all. I've been a busy dragonfly fluttering about here and there, but alas, here I am sitting once again at my desk. I hope you had a lovely Memorial Day Weekend filled with joy, but also keeping in mind and heart the true meaning of the holiday.

This past month, my fella and I took a ride to Lake George and spent a lovely time in the town of Bolton Landing. There we stayed at the Boathouse Inn (right up my alley), and visited the sights thereabouts. It was my first time visiting Lake George and the Adirondack area. I must say the majestic vistas, verdure splendor, and crystal waters held me spellbound in its beauty. Would I visit again? Oh indeed I would..after all, we had a most blissful time.

The Boathouse Inn...circa 1917


View from our room. Isn't it lovely?


...another majestic view

...view from the boat during a riveting ride on the lake.


..yes it was quite windy on the back porch of the Boathouse.


Blissful after a lovely meal at the beautiful 1898 Inn At Erlowest. (Lake George)

I've been trying to get my yard/garden in shape and some kind of order so that I can begin my picnic/cookout gatherings. We broke in the new grill this weekend, so at least we've got a good start! Now it's time to find the right metal garden gazebo to create an outdoor living room in a sweet secluded corner. I also have to make a visit to the herb farm and pick up my usual selection for my potted kitchen garden. So as you see, I have lots to keep me busy.

A cozy spot in the garden...come sit and enjoy!!

I've kept Mr. Knightley from hijacking my computer again..though I must admit he did write the sweetest post for Mother's Day. He's such a boy!! I simply love him oodles and oodles. I also love to share pictures of him while he's stretched out and snoozing away. He has no idea what Mama is up to when he sleeps.

*smiles wickedly*My adorable one...snoozing away.

On the way back home this weekend, my fella and I drove on a road called Hawk's Nest on RT. 97 along the Delaware in NY. What a breathtaking view and what a wonderful photo op!

View of the Delaware from Hawk's Nest.

Looks foggy but somewhat mystical..don't ya think?

My dahling and I at Hawk's Nest.

So you see, I've been living moment by moment, day to day, bliss to bliss. I see the sun beyond the gray clouds..I see the moon and stars when none is apparent...and I can still hear the music long after the tune has been played. Embrace each moment my dears, and remember to find your bliss!!

xoxo
Miss Sandra

Mr. Knightley's Take on Mama

Dear Bloggers,

While "Mama" is downstairs busy with laundry, I thought I'd take this opportunity to sneak into her writing room, sit on her comfy chair, and hijack her blog. I've always been curious as to her doings on this contraption, but after reading through her blog pages, I can see why she shows such enthusiasm over this silly thing anyway. I believe I shall forgive her lapse of attention over me during her time spent on this silly machine and... *coughs* "Cchheh..cchheh!!"
Ahem...sorry...hairball. Now where was I?

Ahh yes...

Since Mother's Day is coming up..I thought I'd surprise her by posting in her blog...in her honor of course! Most will say that having a pet (notice I did not say owning) does not equate to parenthood status. As the doted fur-child of this most wonderful woman I call Mama, I must beg to differ. She caters to my every whim...feeds me only the best cuisine...gives the best loving hugs...speaks to me in the most silly manner...allows me to drape myself over her (see pic above).. gets me to the vet for my yearly shots (no..I do not like that)...even cried (okay..practically bawled) when she caught my tail in a door...and allows me to snuggle up beside her every night while she sleeps (do not believe her when she says I snore). She calls me her little-man, her munchkin, (though I'm still not certain I like that)...her precious boy...her joy..etc., etc. I believe I like it best when she calls me the prince of this castle. After all, this is my domain and I do as I please. I just allow her to think otherwise. Excuse me please..*takes moment to lick self*.

Needless to say, though she may not be of the feline kind, she is my Mama...and I want nothing more than to continue to give her joy by allowing her to adore me as she does.

So dearest Mama...I want to wish you a very Happy Mother's Day. You cannot imagine the joy I beheld when you rescued me from that cage in the shelter back in October of 2005. I'm happy to be your "baby" (just don't expect me to admit it again). I love you Mama.

To all of you Mothers (of human children or the fur kind) I wish you a very Happy Mother's Day.

Most Sincerely,
Mr. Knightley Of Harmonie House

"cchheh..cchheh!!"

Bliss Delivered

My Dears,

The sun is shining brightly outside my writing room window. The green of the privet hedge is deep in verdure splendor..not surprising given the amount of rain we've had the past couple of days.

Mr. Knightley is presently visiting the land of nod..snoring sweetly while in slumber....curled up into the cutest, softest, and most velvetiest of coats I've ever felt . Funny how dear the sound of a snoring kitty can be.

So here I sit..soft music providing the soundtrack for this moment and my thoughts cascading through these fingers as I type. I want to share with you my bliss of the day. Now you all know I am all about finding bliss wherever I may be...and bliss comes to us in many ways, shapes, and forms. Funny that I should be at my shop when bliss came to me. I should really say it was delivered...in the form of roses. One dozen red beauties....from my sweet fella.

Nature's perfection..

Delicate layers of sweet velvety bliss..

I took a rose in hand and gently caressed its form. I looked at its simple beauty and wondered...what is this rose saying? What story do these delicate layers of petals have for me? Can these roses feel the vibes emanating from me..the vibes of dreamy bliss?

le sigh..sweet, euphoric scent.

Mr. Knightley discovers bliss...

...so pretty

a rose is a rose...and so much more

Amazing the effect of such bliss on the human emotion. Surprise...sweet mush in the form of sappy sighs...and finally the smile that stays and lingers. Yes..bliss caught me unawares this afternoon, but when it came the result was instantaneous. Silly girl. I'm still smiling...still blissful.


May bliss find you always!

xoxo
Miss Sandra

OMG! I Just Realized..

...that today is my one year Blogiversary!

A year ago today I decided to dabble in blogland. Wow! Tis amazing the difference a year makes.

I want each and every one of you to know that I appreciate your visits..your comments..and most of all YOU. This blog would not have been a year old this day if it wasn't for my followers. You've made every post a pleasure to write..every picture a pleasure to snap...every smile a bliss to behold.

To you I say THANK YOU!
I hope to always have something wonderful to share .. to inspire a smile..to extend some bliss your way..and simply say "have a seat and stay a while."... sharing with you a part of my world one word at a time.

xoxo
Miss Sandra

The Scent Of Spring, Music, and Mr. Knightley

My Dears,

First I'd like to say that I hope your holiday weekend was absolutely divine.

The weather has been quite lovely in these parts and the sights and scents of Spring have permeated the air. Harmonie House is surrounded by the euphoric, magical, and most lovely scent of magnolia. It is most enchanting in its floral splendor and fills my home with the essence of springtime and romance with its subtle softness, and beauty.

as seen through my library/music room window..

a shower of petals upon the ground...

simply beautiful...

So on a lovely day such as this, I arrived home floating on air..at least it felt that way. *smiles* Upon arrival, Mr. Knightley greeted me in his usual cuteness fashion....purrs and loads of love for "Mama". I filled the kettle and headed to my library/music room to open up the old casement windows. In no time the room was filled with nature's perfume. With my "cuppa" of Darjeeling in hand, I sat upon my favorite chair and lost myself in the moment. Twas quite blissful indeed, however...something was missing. Ah yes!! Music.

time for some music...

So up I went and opened my 1915 Victrola. I chose a few of my favorite 78's and cranked up the old music machine. Henry Burr and Albert Campbell serenaded me with "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles"...Paul Whiteman provided a sweet melody "No More Worrying"..and so on.

While singing along to Jay C. Flippin's "Let A Smile Be Your Umbrella" I watched as Mr. Knightley became fascinated with my Victor. Curious as any kitty would be, he made quite the amusing picture.

hmmm..why is that spinning?

okay...look natural.

aha! got it...

hmmm...what song should be played next?

play this one please...

sounds purrrrrfect!

So there you have it my dears. Spring, flowers, music, and my Mr. Knightley. Simple pleasures to be had...blissful moments to last a lifetime.

from my shangri-la to yours!

xoxo
Miss Sandra

Thoughts On A Rainy Day

pic source

My Dears,

As March rolls along, guiding us closer towards the pleasures of springtime, I sit here and ask myself...where has the time gone already?? I mean wasn't it just yesterday we celebrated a new year? January came and went..February, the same..now we're around the corner from Spring.

Now don't get me wrong..though I'm well known as the winter queen, I am looking forward to lovely, warm days and the glorious scent of flowers in the garden. However, time is so precious that I'd hate to see it all fly by so quickly. I thirst for the moment..minute by minute. I long to enjoy every precious second, for life has taught me about loss..about the delicate fabric of our lives.

So that being said..I want to find my bliss here, there, everywhere. I want to enjoy every bit of "newness" that comes along. I want to treasure my loved ones..and embrace with passion and divine euphoria my new beginnings. I want to live life to the fullest...tomorrow isn't promised to any of us.

This is my now, my minute, my hour, my future. I'm living it up...and while I'm at it, I'm counting my blessings every step of the way! Enjoy your TODAY my dears..each day as it comes. Tis the gift we can unwrap upon awaking every morn.

xoxo
Miss Sandra