A Succulent Post...

You might recall my saying that I'm not much of a gardener. Many of the plants I've purchased over the years have died slow deaths under my watchful eye. I apparently kill them with kindness.

One genre of plants that seems to suit me to a "T", are the plants in the succulent family. I've owned the same jade plants (now impressively huge) for over twenty five years. One of them even flowers at least once a year now! They reside in enormous pots on wheels and have yielded many offspring that I've shared with others or repotted to other places on our pool deck or in our yard.

I absolutely love "hen and chicks", but hadn't had any for years. I found some while shopping yesterday and purchased a small container of them. They're so beautiful with their silvery green, waxy leaves, and when I picked them up in the nursery, there was water inside their petals.

Of course, I had to again fill them to photograph them for you. Doesn't the water look like little gems hidden inside the folds of the plant?

I know that this isn't a "crafty" post, but the fact that these plants love living with me really relates to the fact that I love to spend time in my studio. You see, when I'm in the studio, I'm not hovering over them. And these plants require so little care that they thrive from my neglect and give back so much.

I guess it's been an introspective week for me this week. I've shared more about my thoughts with you than about creating. You've all given back so much to me in return. I've read every note left for me relating to my "Because It Matters" post, and can't tell you how much I appreciated your kind and loving words. Thank you, my dear friends. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Next week, I'm going to launch my Eight Hundredth Post Giveaway. Can you believe it? It's actually closer to eight hundred forty now. That's a lot of talking, isn't it? You deserve a chance to win something for sticking with me, I think! So, I just want to give you an early heads-up so you know to look for the giveaway post next week.

Also, just a quick reminder that next Monday - August 29th - is my next Memory Lane Monday. I wanted to be sure to give you plenty of time to choose a favorite memory to write about on your blog and then link back here.

You can choose any subject, from any time in your life. Perhaps you have a fun "Back to School" memory you'd like to share? I've really enjoyed reading the stories of those who've participated in the past and would love to invite you to join this month.

With love and gratitude,