Ted Kennedy Watson

My love affair with mums continues. The two big pots of them we picked up at the Hudson Farmers Market early last Saturday have been giving us lots of flower happiness this week and just had to be the Flower Friday blooms to be celebrated. As mentioned in the past, I was not a big fan of mums long ago. But our neck of the woods in the Hudson Valley does them in such a beautifully big way, they won us over. The sheer number of flowers per pot can make me dizzy with glee. They signal the start of Autumn to me. We plunked them into big zinc pots we found at Brimfield a few years ago, and have them on the long picnic table we have out back that looks up to the meadow and fields beyond. We can see them from the dining room, kitchen and the back porch, so lots of pausing throughout the day to take it all in. Everyone have a lovely, lovely last few days of September. XX, T2

Morning Light

September 28, 2023

Rest can have lots of different meanings and look different for all of us. It can be for the mind, for the body, for the spirit. Or a combination of all. To me quiet and peacefulness is hugely reviving. Slowing down to notice the simple details of the day. The way the light is streaming through the windows and the branches of the trees creating a moving silhouette. Time to free up the mind. To gain perspective. As I mentioned a few weeks ago, we have been dealing with several family illnesses that have rocked us a bit. No, make that a lot. Hawthorne has once again enveloped us. More on all of this later, but for now, we are letting the country air and light do its magic…

The Annual Tomato Sandwich

September 27, 2023

A year could not pass without a tomato sandwich post, so today is the day on Wine & Dine Wednesday. As simple as could be. A much loved memory from my tennis filled youth, where I could eat countless numbers of these in a sitting after hours on the court. Find the very best tomato you can get your hands on, cut a big slice. Salt liberally. That brings out all those incredible juices. Toast up a favorite bread. Slather with mayo. Set tomato atop. A napkin or two most necessary. Savor.

Shop Snapshots

September 26, 2023

I am always looking to capture shop moments, when straightening up displays or walking around getting ideas on what to do next. That is when I snap away. Here are a dozen from the last few weeks.

Ted’s Tip No. 452

September 25, 2023

A collection can really start at any time and begin with one thing that tickles you. Then add to it. When you are traveling, add a piece. You will remember your adventure and trip each time you look at the object. Friends will get to noticing your collection and gift you a piece. Or many. From green pool balls to sea shells and just about everything in between, your collection is whatever brings you much joy.

A Maya Sunday Quote

September 24, 2023