Old clocks, pictures of previous generations, lamps that recall bygone eras all add that certain something to any room. Throw in a few good old novels, some bright fresh flowers, and beautiful scarves or throws and you have “heirloom” pride written all over your room. Modern is nice, and brand new will always be great, but throw in a piece or two of some really vintage furniture and you have not only memories but a room that will create its own. If you feel that placing these items in your main rooms is really too much for you, then have a very private area where you read, write in your diary, or just relax. Furnish this with those items that recall, relive, and reacquaint. Here, you can read under your father’s desk lamp, or your brother’s favorite horse painting. Grandma’s crocheted throw will be a welcome accent, as well as that deer that grandpa whittled.

Using fabric, color, paint, stain, and a whole lot of ingenuity will give your home that very beautiful individuality that most designers seek, and most homeowners seem to miss. Your guests, whether neighbors, family, or those whose friendship is very important to you will feel relaxed, comfortable, and interested. They can touch brass, or finger brocade. There is style, detail, and intricate designs that add true character to a home. Don’t ever feel bad when you get hand-me-downs. Make them treasures they truly are. Place your imprint of creativity on them and you will have something that one day you will be proud to hand-down, if you can ever really can part with it. ENJOY! ©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 June http://www.arleenssite.com http://www.Arleens-RusticLiving.com

Your birdbath can be a wonderful addition to your garden setting, in summer as well as winter months. While your plants sleep away cold, birds still need water and many local watering holes may be frozen over and not provide liquid they need. Also, there are different birds in each season, and you will be amazed that you never noticed them before. If your bath is shallow, simply knocking out ice and providing clean water will keep them happy during coldest days.

A fun project is to keep a diary of birds you see in any given season. Compare notes and see which ones are just passing through and which take up housekeeping. The colors are a sight to behold, and their activities will entice both adult and child to watch and enjoy. Birds can be a very welcome addition into your spot in world. Treat them with a few amenities and they will reward you handsomely. Wherever you live, there are birds that will take delight in necessities you have provided, and listen very carefully - you will hear them thanking you with their song - a chorus of chirping, singing, and other bird sounds is very entertaining. They have different songs for difference occasions. See if you can tell difference and soon you will know if they are sending out an alarm to other birds, courting a possible mate, or just enjoying afternoon. It can become a lifelong hobby, and a very enjoyable one at that. Your picture perfect garden just got a little prettier, and a lot more musical. ENJOY ©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 June http://www.arleenssite.com http://www.Arleens-RusticLiving.com