As requested, a photo of the new set-up in the living room. It’s very simple, really. We moved the table over to the somewhat dark corner, and the monstera, which had previously been in that same dark corner, is now directly under the window. A couple of the leaves are ready to be removed, but I never like to remove them before it’s time. If I think they’re still living, they stay. I’ve also found a way to hike up the leaves that are nearly touching the coffee table. So, it looks better than this photo indicates. I know the light will make a huge difference. The monstera stopped producing split leaves because it wasn’t getting enough light. I also trimmed the aerial roots, which were longer than I knew. They had even found their way to the cracks between floor boards! Since the plant was back in the corner next to Don’s chair, I never saw the roots going crazy. The rubber plant is getting about the same amount of light that it did when the table was under the window, so it will do just fine.
I’m getting close to finishing the latest Louise Penny, which is excellent. I expect nothing less. The plot is fascinating and Penny writes with a combination of compassion and an unflinching awareness of the brutality in the world. It is precisely this blend that makes every one of her novels so powerful.
What next? I’m not sure. I have lots of TBR books upstairs (and downstairs, for that matter) that I’ve been thinking of. I also want to reread one of my favorite authors: Canadian author,Robertson Davies. I read all of his books, especially his trilogies, well over 30 years ago and I’ve been craving the chance to read them again at my ‘advanced’ age. If I keep thinking of some book, it’s definitely a sign that I need to read it. Also want to read Underland by Robert Macfarlane. It’s a work of non-fiction about our planet and I’ve had it on my pile upstairs since last year. Time to read it. I’m in the queue at the library for the new Deborah Crombie, but I expect I won’t be seeing a copy of the book for a few weeks.
Don just made pancakes, which I love, but usually immediately regret eating because I get sleepy afterwards.
Still – I ate them.
He also made an apple pie yesterday which we will partake of this afternoon.
Stay safe.
Happy Sunday.
linda in ky says
dear Claudia/Don — really like your “girls” they look so great in their outfits –perfect for them!! My only gson loves pancakes–could eat them EVERY meal when he is here–of course, he is 19,skinny as a bean pole with no thought that someday metabolism may change–Aha, the freedom of youth, haha!! hope you all stay healthy/safe
Claudia says
I remember having a metabolism like that! I was absolutely sure I would stay skinny all my life.
Ha ha!
Stay safe, Linda.
Barrie says
Your houseplants look so nice! Pancakes sound pretty appealing…they always remind me of our family breakfasts when I was a kid! I have a disc of pie crust in the freezer…plan to make an apple tart later on…nice and easy…and tasty! Enjoy your apple pie!
Claudia says
An apple tart sounds yummy!
Stay safe, Barrie.
Donnamae says
Your monstera already looks happier! Thanks for the pic.
It’s always a dilemma as to which book to read next. I have quite a few stacks, and last week I received 5 Louise Penny’s that I hadn’t read yet. I know that was a faux pas to read them out of order, but I got so excited to read her after you and others had told me about her…I just jumped in. Lol.
Enjoy your apple pie…and your day! ;)
Claudia says
Enjoy your Louise Pennys, Donnamae!
Stay safe.
Ellen D. says
I am reading a book called The Whalebone Theater by Joanna Quinn. It was recommended on another blog and I am really enjoying it. I think you would like it!
Claudia says
Yes, I’ve read about that book, Ellen. I’ll have to reserve it at the library.
Stay safe, Ellen!
kathy in iowa says
healthy plants, beautiful art and furniture (including don’s miniature studio), a drum, sunshine, a glimpse of that great old shed … the new set-up looks great!
pancakes and apple pie sound good, too. enjoy with no regrets!
glad you have some books to (re)enjoy, too.
happy sunday to everyone! stay safe.
kathy
Claudia says
Thanks so much, Kathy!
Stay safe.
Elaine in Toronto says
It’s pan cake weather with delicious spring maple syrup. I’m not having any luck finding frozen unsweetened apple juice to make your pie. Do you think the same amount of unsweetened apple juice or apple cider would work? Sounds like you’re having a nice cozy Sunday. Here, it’s bright, sunny and pretty warm for the middle of February. A friend of mine is actually going to work in her garden cutting raspberry canes this afternoon. Hugs, Elaine
Claudia says
I can’t imagine why the stores aren’t carrying it. I have no idea about substituting, I imagine it would work. It doesn’t hurt to try!
Stay safe, Elaine.
Martha in SF Bay Area says
So nice to see all the lush greenery in your house, Claudia. Always a beautiful view there. Somehow my few houseplants muddle through without much attention from me.
Since you love To Kill A Mockingbird – as do I & probably most folks – I thought I would share that lots of Gregory Peck’s personal and professional items are being auctioned this week at HA.com/Peck. Among the items being sold are a personally inscribed by Harper Lee TKAM book to Gregory Peck & his wife and as well as a copy of the bound script for the film. Beyond my capabilities to consider bidding. Very fun to browse through while I should be working. HAH!
Otherwise all quiet here. Glad you have someone to spoil you with pancakes and apple pie while your adoring girls gaze on.
XO
Claudia says
I’m in the middle of looking at the items now, Martha. Out of my price range, of course. I do have a signed edition of TKAM, but not one inscribed to Mr. Peck!
It would be fun to pick up one little thing that he owned, as I am a huge, huge fan. I heard him speak (his one person show about his career) in La Jolla way back when we were living in San Diego. (Don gave me the ticket as a present.) There was a big intro, a montage of his films, and when the music for TKAM came on, I started sobbing. I couldn’t stop. I’m sure everyone around me thought I was ‘troubled.) But it was just the moment – knowing I was going to see and hear him.
Stay safe, Martha.
jeanie says
What a wonderful corner of the room, and what great light! The monstera is well named! Audrey Two, I think!
I meant to say in the other comment I am glad about your friend Adrian and the prayers continue.
Claudia says
Audrey Two for sure!
Thank you Jeanie.
Stay safe.