Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from July, 2011

Sunshine and Lavander

Situated in an arid, rocky valley in the Luberon region of Provence, sits the 12th century Romanesque monastery "L'Abbaye de Senanque". This Cistercian abbey is still a place of monastic life, where the monks work in the fields of agriculture and tourism. This hot, dry, sun drenched area of Provence provides the perfect conditions for lavander to flourish. The stark beauty of the plain gray stone building of the abbey provides the perfect back drop for the flourishing blossoms of lavander growing in the adjacent fields. "Living from the work of their hands", is one of the directives written by Saint Benedict in the 6th century. For this reason, the monks work hard to tend to their daily chores, which include the growing and harvesting of the lavander. Lavander reaches its full bloom sometime between mid July into August. It is then harvested and dried or distilled into essential oils. These dried flowers and extracts will be used to make a variety of aromatic t

Home Dec - Easy Awning

I recently constructed this 6 panel canvas awning to help keep the temperature of our top floor, west facing apartment moderate in the intense heat of summer afternoons. It's easy to construct, easy to install and convenient for storage. And, most importantly, it has made our apartment much more comfortable when the full impact of the sun hits the terrace in the afternoons.

Standing Ovation

Daughter and Seams French partner extraordinaire, Leah, has completed her first solo performance on the Bernina to great applause and cheers. Best friend "K" provided the inspiration by giving birth to the beautiful "Baby L". Proud Mama "E" provided encouragement and support, and Darling Daughter "L" performed with grace and elegance. Bravo! (and keep that Bernina humming!)