Old farm supply stores, and my homemade bird seed wreath

Old hardware and farm supply stores are as much fun as antique shops and flea markets, in my book.  Since we needed a new shovel, Galen broke ours a few weeks ago taking out the lirope and a tree stump in the back yard, we decided to go to Yoder's Farm and Garden Supply store in Grifton rather than Lowes.  After all, it's a ride in the country and lunch at the dutch pantry.  

You can find everything from hammers and nails to kerosene lamps to rubber boots and shoes, to kitchen towels and utensils, birdseed, bird feeders, flower pots and garden tools.  We picked up a shovel and a few other things, and then had lunch in the restaurant.  Did I mention homemade pies?  

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On another note ~ I made a bird seed wreath.  I have been seeing these a lot on other blogs and also on facebook and thought I would give it a try.  It's so easy!

And here it is, hanging on the picket fence in the back yard.  We love feeding the birds at Mourning Dove Cottage.  

Enjoy your day!

Whimsical garden lamps and bird feeders

I fell in love with these whimsical creations at first sight when I came across them at the NC State Fair last week. I don't know who the artist is, but the imagination and creativity is amazing. They were on display in the garden area.

It looks like they are made from recycled lamps and other found objects. The painting is very artistic and colorful.

Some of them have string lights inside.

If you look closely you can pick out certain items that were used and some pieces are turned upside down.

A marbled bowling ball (below) beside the lamp ~ unusual, clever and whimsical.

I think I might have to figure out how to make one of these for myself, or two or three. Yes, I know, a little restraint would be wise. But wouldn't a whimsical lamp be just beautiful tucked away in a secluded spot in the garden ~ or a small group of bright birdfeeders hanging under a tree. Oh, yes, I am definitely going to be thinking about this project.

Sunshine

Turn your face toward the sun and the shadows will fall behind.

While Otis and Riley and I were out filling the bird feeders this morning we couldn't help but stop and take in the bright warm sunshine.

It felt delicious!

Ice in the birdbath

I went out to fill the bird feeders this morning and noticed ice in the birdbath. It's still really cold here, 32 degrees right now. On Sunday, however, it's supposed to hit 60 degrees....looking forward to that.



As you can see, we still have some leftover snow mostly in the shaded areas of the garden.

Otis and Riley will find whatever little spot of sun they can.

They waited for me.....

while I filled the bird feeders.

Too cold to be outside today.