It feels like spring outside, but it's January. The trees are budding out, daffodils coming up, kids playing in the street in t-shirts. And it's raining again. I seem to miss the days outside in the sun and go out when it's misty and grey. Probably some meaning in that. Little things around here brighten the day though...a box of clementines, the sunlight on my kitchen stool.
The neighbors dropped off this beautiful flowering plant in a basket. The card read...In memory of Jake, the "gentleman" on the street. Poetic and perfectly put. He was a gentleman of a dog, so polite, dignified, stoic. The flowers are sweetly fragrant of the earth, the leaves like lettuces and looking at them makes me feel like spring will be here...sunnier days, birdsong, open windows.
Tomorrow is the first day of something big for me. I will tell you all about it then...it's a happy thing, full of excitement and dream come true stuff. See you then. Off for a walk in the rain. xoC
What a nice, sunny post, despite your weather. I'm happy to hear that things are looking up for you, Charlotte.
The sun's finally out here today, but it's freezing again! We're never satisfied, are we?
Posted by: Jan | January 08, 2007 at 01:44 PM
Lovely photos ~ such a special plant honoring Jake ~ what a wonderful description of him! I can't wait to hear your news ~ you deserve something wonderful!
xo,
Kim
Posted by: Daisy Cottage | January 08, 2007 at 02:10 PM
Your flower is a type of primrose. You should be able to plant it in the garden and it will come back year after year. That's what I did with mine three years ago and they're still around. Kind of a living memorial to Jake.
Posted by: Tracy | January 08, 2007 at 02:13 PM
oooo can't wait to hear your news - dream come true stuff is pretty special ;-)
Love how you decorated (I assume it was YOU)your stool.
The primrose are beautiful and more than that - what thoughtful neighbors you have.
Also, I have to tell you how much I enjoy seeing that sweet felt flower on your home page when I stop by for a visit. Love it.
Posted by: Linda | January 08, 2007 at 02:43 PM
It is lovely to see snippets of your life via the blog. I have your book, _Mothers and Daughters at Home_ and have just ordered _Between Friends_. So from a blog reader and fan, Have a good day.
Posted by: ornamentea | January 08, 2007 at 02:44 PM
Beautiful flowers! What a dear neighbor! I'll be checking in tomorrow to see your big news. How exciting!!
Posted by: teresa mcfayden | January 08, 2007 at 02:59 PM
Lovely post Charlotte.
Posted by: carolyn | January 08, 2007 at 05:06 PM
A perfect post. Your writing is so soothing....but you left on such a mysterious note...you better believe I'll be checking in tomorrow!
Posted by: amanda bel | January 08, 2007 at 05:32 PM
Charlotte-
I am so excited about your big news-how will I sleep tonite????
I have to tell you that I adore your neighbors for being so thoughtful. I bet Mr. Jake was watching all that and is very proud! So he should be, it's no easy feat to be a gentleman dog.
Hope you enjoyed your walk in the rain. It can certainly help clear the cobwebs somedays.
Til tomorrow.
-Lisa
Posted by: Lisa | January 08, 2007 at 07:46 PM
Seems like the weather is a reflection of our world these days...confused!
We are maybe going to have snow on Wed. and colder than usual weather(for us) the rest of the week.
I like how each of your photographs today includes both shadow and light at the same time. Perfect for the message of your post.
Can't wait to hear your news!
Posted by: Mrs. Staggs | January 08, 2007 at 10:17 PM
Can't wait to hear! So excited for you. A fresh start is always a lovely pick me up.
Posted by: pam | January 09, 2007 at 01:10 AM
The primula is lovely. They always make me think of spring. How lovely of your neighbours to give you such a beautiful thing in memory of Jake. I love the desciption of him.
Can't wait to hear your news. I'm really pleased you have something lovely happening. You deserve it after such a horrid couple of weeks.
Posted by: Nonnie | January 09, 2007 at 06:26 AM
Charlotte, I know this has been a very sad time for you and your family. But I know there are wonderful things in store for you. Clarice
Posted by: clarice | January 09, 2007 at 10:44 AM
That's a pretty bar stool you got. I love sunlight too when it touches my gas lift bar stools.
Posted by: Shawn | June 20, 2007 at 12:22 AM