The view early this morning as the snow was piling up to about 7″ high.

 Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Surprisingly, there isn’t much – if any – “green” outside in our neck of the woods today. We got yet another wintery blast last night with about 6-7″ of snow. This does seem to be the winter that just won’t give up. But spring arrives later this week and I know it won’t be long before it will be bursting with new green life outside very soon!

The view from my studio this morning. It may be snowy white outside, but there is a burst of sunny colors inside!

Carolyn Archer, Ohio Star Quilting, quilted my new Mexican Sunburst quilt with the perfect quilting designs including this clever Aztec-inspired sun face!

 A taste of spring…..

I spent last week in the sunshine state visiting my folks making many meals and stocking their freezer for them since my Mom doesn’t cook anymore.  The weather was beautiful and I enjoyed the sunny, warm days and all the new greenery in and around the park where my Mom and Dad live. I thought you might like to enjoy a little virtual mini green get-away in honor of St. Patrick’s Day mixed with a bit of spring fever by sharing some of the photos I took while I was there. Think green – think spring!

A beautiful serene canal lies quietly amongst the trees.

Late afternoon sunlight filters through the cypress tree swamp. I just love this place of calm serenity. It is magical and yet spiritual at the same time.

This little no-name hidden lake is a testament to the passage of the seasons and time without fuss or fanfare.

A tractor abandoned among the live oak trees…..

Not green, but certainly heralding the coming of spring this Trumpet tree burst forth in brilliant blooms!

The little boat seems to beckon, “Come and enjoy a quiet afternoon on the lake.”

But it is the cypress trees which beckon to my heart.

I cherish the inhabitants who live there.

Although even I thought the hundred or so vultures resting in the tree branches were kind of creepy.

But after spending the afternoon in this peaceful place, I felt refreshed and renewed.

And all the beautiful shades of green I saw were absolutely breathtaking.

National Quilting Day!

Did you do something special or fun to celebrate National Quilting Day? I had the privilege of teaching a class at one of my all-time favorite quilt shops, Scrap and Sew in Lutz, FL. I taught a brand new mystery class from 6pm – midnight, and we all had such a great time! It was so much fun to visit with my old friends and catch up on what’s been happening in their lives since we moved away from Tampa.

I’m with Tess, owner of Scrap and Sew and a lifelong friend!

If you’re anywhere near the Tampa / Orlando / Ocala area, this shop is a MUST-SEE stop!

 My folks…..

And as for my folks, they got to enjoy a little time with their grandson and I even taught my Dad how to make brownies — his favorite treat in the world!

 So, never fear. I believe spring is on the way. Even with all this wintry weather we’ve been experiencing, there are warmer, brighter days on the horizon.

So in the meantime, I’m keeping spring in my heart. You’ll do the same, won’t you?