Choosing Simplicity by Linda Breen Pierce
*****

The subtitle for this books is "Real People Finding Peace and Fulfillment in a Complex World". Inside, we come to learn about various methods people use to discover all that their lives can be. No two stories are the same. But all are engaging. 
Although each participant had diverse economic, geographical and familial conditions, all were compelled to make a change 
to simplicity in their lives. 

It was truly fascinating to see each story unfold and blossom. I could easily see how our lives can be transformed by making this one purposeful choice. If you are wondering how to simplify your life, this book could be the impetus for change. In any case, it's intriguing to witness people living their lives with the utmost sincerity.

Bees

When I checked on the plants this afternoon 
(couldn't brave it before that),

I didn't hear one bee buzzing. 
That makes me so sad...

The Big Freeze is Comin'

With temperatures expected in the high 20's 
coming later in the week, 
it seemed like a good time to document 
just how hearty some of the plants 
around the garden are.

I will do my best to cover those that may be most affected,

but certainly everything can't be protected.

Good advice was found here:
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_gardening_bloghttp://www.gardenguides.com/93643-protect-plants-freeze-central-florida.html.

 
All the potted plants will be gathered 
and brought onto the patio.

Huddling together, it will enable many plants
to be covered with one sheet

which will keep them warmer.

Our avocado tree is big enough to plant in the yard now,
but I don't dare until the threat of frost and freeze is past us.
Glad this made a full recovery.

 

The lantana can't be covered and I know it will turn black,
but thankfully, it has always come back.

The holly trees are just starting to form berries and blooms.

They feel so Christmas-sy!

(Is that a word?)

I'm not sure how the wildflowers will do.
There is a small patch in the backyard
where seeds were sprinkled as a kind of experiment.
I guess they're used to fending for themselves.

The milkweed is one specimen I want to take extra measures to save.
Having just acquired two recently, they are the future home
of many caterpillars we hope to see in our yard.

  

The umbrella of peppers may not make it, but they are mostly ornamental, since we don't eat them around here.
Too hot for these delicate tastebuds!

The teepee for the butterfly vine may be one of the easiest to cover, as the only thing needed to keep a sheet on this structure are some butterfly clips or clothespins.

The pineapples may die back as in past years, 
but they do recover eventually.

It will be fun to see if the rain in the barrels freezes over too!
The plumbego will be fine.

One of the best things about growing natives or Florida-friendly plants, is that you needn't worry too much regarding the weather changes. They are more adept at accepting the variances in temperatures than we are!

Sssssssssssss

Snake Plant

I have several of these inside, but I had transplanted a few outside on the north part of the house. So far, they have been doing fine. Today I noticed some blooms coming up. I didn't even know this plant had blooms! I have so much to learn...

I hope the upcoming cold snap doesn't kill the chance to see it bloom. They seem to like moderate temps(they are most often considered indoor plants), so I'll be covering them

with a sheet tomorrow night.

Here's some more information on them:

http://www.emilycompost.com/snake_plant.htm
http://www.thegardenlady.org/2009/01/22/taking-care-of-your-mother-in-laws-tongue-plant/
http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/load/sansevieria/msg0519325511706.html

Black-eyed Susan vine

This has always been one of my favorite blooms. The contrast of the dark green leaves and the sunny yellow-orange flowers are a sight for sore eyes. I can imagine how lovely it would be covering a fence or an arbor. This one took its time sprouting, but try stopping the blossoms once they get started! Easy to grow, self-seeding and prolific flowers. What more can a gardener ask for?

http://www.finegardening.com/plantguide/thunbergia-alata-black-eyed-susan-vine.aspx

Adopt-a-Road

I don't know about you, but I always make resolutions for the coming year. One of the best decisions we ever made as a family is to apply to the Adopt-a-Road program. Not only are we spending time together as a family doing something really meaningful, we are helping to preserve and enhance our community. It really takes very little time, and if every family participated in this worthwhile endeavor, our roadways would be much improved.

Keep Polk County Beautiful Program
Volunteers “adopt” a 1-mile section of a county road

and remove litter at least four times a year.

All materials are provided.

For more information, call (863) 533-8423

or http://www.keeppolkcountybeautiful.org/.

Be part of the solution!