Spring Once Again...

It is April with showers and sunshine.  We are truly having Spring this year.  Most years it is hit and miss with lots of snow and winter.  Here is a photo of our Saucer Magnolias.  We have three in a group that are kept at bush size.  They are over 70 years old and we brought them here from Southern California hoping that they would survive and so they have.  We do see some Saucer Magnolia Trees around this area also.

The flowers are magnificent.  Some people refer to these as "Tulip Trees".  Normally the buds form and take about five months to bloom.  The green leaves seem to sprout overnight just when the buds begin to shed their protective sheaths.  The rain or snow usually comes and knocks down the blooms.  We have been having rain but so far the blooms are still tight enough that they aren't able to collect too much water weight and droop to ruin.  The blossoms only last a few short days so I am enjoying them immensely.  Mr. C always feels extra special as they seem to bloom for his birthday each year.  He really likes these.

This morning I was able to join some other Chamber of Commerce volunteers and staff and get a personal tour of this charming little house.  It is now a vacation rental and here is the link if you wish to check it out.  http://www.flipkey.com/nevada-city-cottage-rentals/p461823/  I have always admired this place.  It has such a lot of history to it.  For any of you who love the Hallmark movie "The Christmas Card" which was filmed here in Nevada City, this sits right next to the beautiful white church featured in the movie.  This was originally the rectory for the church.  Later it became "The Teddy Bear Museum" known world-wide.  Then a "Two Room Inn" B&B rental.  I am thrilled that I finally got to go inside and see it for myself.  I would live there if I could.  ;o)
Nothing clever or creative in the craftsy/artsy world to show.  Mr. C and I have been very busy socially as the weather is nicer and there are numerous birthdays to celebrate this month.  Somehow I am not able to even do any stitching at these venues...the lighting is too dim, lots of visiting and chatting and dancing and general all around having fun.  So I don't fret over not being able to stitch my portable projects which I carry with me.  Life is to be enjoyed and we are definitely doing that.
May you have Spring and Sunshine and Joyful Smiles...