The End of Poverty

This video was such an eye opener for me that I just had to share this with you. 

Garden Bloggers Bloom day January 2011

Pink ground orchid, thank you Jordon from Tog of Coral Gables!

pink flame cordyline in bloom

Hello and welcome to Garden Bloggers Bloom day where gardeners from all over the globe,  post what is blooming in their gardens. We have begun our dry season, the trade winds are blowing and many of the plants need watering on a regular basis. I am trying to only water when needed keeping my eye on the clouds. This doesn't always work, so many times I've waited until my plants look awful and then give in and water them, only to get a heavy shower of rain after finishing the job :-(  Well we can't win all the time I guess. To see more of what is blooming around the globe please stroll over to May dreams gardens to see more gardens in bloom. Have a great weekend my friends.

A Gem in the woods

While visiting South Carolina last November, we paid a fleeting visit to this B&B gem in the woods. Owned and run by a petite and talented lady named Ellen, an accomplished artist, world traveler and chef,  a true Jill of all trades. My cousins who had stayed there had told her about me and my rustic garden and hoped that one day we will meet. It is my dream one day to open a B&B and I was impressed with this gem of a place!

I was in awe of the beauty that surrounded this place. It was a home away from home  the first moment I stepped onto the property.  The curling wisps of smoke led me to this picturesque patio at the back.  I felt at peace with the world in these surroundings. It was as if time had stood still.

Camellias graced the garden and the slopes. Ellen took me to where some were flowering even though the season was coming to an end.  She told me that the original owner had them planted all over the property and was thrilled that she had inherited them when she bought the place.

Much of the work is done by the owner Ellen including these deliciously baked goods on the table. Did I mention that Ellen is a BIG Elvis Fan? Well she is and has a corner dedicated to him but you will have to come visit to see it.

I spotted this hibiscus in bloom in the chilly weather and was amazed at its resilience.

The Amethyst Inn is located at the foothills of the Southern Appalachian mountains, it is  opened all year round and reservations are required. This is a great place to get away from the madding crowd. Have a great weekend my friends.

N.B. Sad news Ellen has closed The Amethyst Inn.