snowy day get-together

Snow is rare enough in Delaware that we get excited over just a few inches. This weekend Mother Nature gave us a good 14 inches, and folks were in a happy tizzy over the novelty and sheer beauty of it.

The snow was not enough for Beth to cancel her annual holiday greenery party. Her 1850's farmhouse with its white-blanketed grounds provided the perfect setting for a cozy afternoon of cookie-eating, gingerbread coffee-sipping, craftiness, and conversation.

Cuttings of boxwood, pine, and rosemary, all snipped from the property, were available for arranging. Florist foam was soaked in water, and placed in tins or other watertight containers. The kids especially loved poking the greenery into the foam and adding glitzy wired ornaments.

The rest of us worked on fattening up for the winter.

Mmmmmm... homemade goodies.

The live Christmas tree will be planted on the grounds after the holiday.

An upper window.

Perfect winter afternoon!

katy & stephen's idyllic vermont wedding

Congratulations to my cousin Stephen and his bride Katy who tied the knot this weekend near Woodstock, Vermont!
The bride was radiant and unconventional in an apricot jersey gown. The groom complemented her well in a vintage vest, sepia-colored chinos and- we may not see this again for a while- a tie! The outdoor ceremony was punctuated with the crows of wandering chickens.
The reception was held at a lovely old farmhouse belonging to Katy's family surrounded by wildflower meadows and sheltering pines.
All the couple's choices reflected their laid-back personalities and environmental consciousness. Rather than renting dishes and tablecloths, they rescued mismatched china and tablecloths from thrift stores.
The meal featured a roast pig and thoughtful selection of locally grown organic foods. Katy actually baked the cake herself. Her mother made the frosting and her friend did the decorating with poppy seeds and flowers right from the garden.
The festivities continued late into the night with live bluegrass and a bonfire. Some guests even camped on the property.

What a memorable good time! Congratulations again Katy & Stephen!