I think that will be my New Year's motto, inspired by my little pink cyclomen here. Reaching. Upward and onward.
We had a great week! Hope you did to. Not much rain (or snow), just lots of cold and fog. At times, barely above freezing. Inside, with the electric candles and twinkle lights glowing and tiny lamps lit in dark corners--it's cozy. The poor houseplants, however, do struggle along this time of year for lack of light. I keep only a few around the kitchen window now, where I can remember to water them regularly.
The cyclomen stretches tall to absorb the thin light. I finally placed it on a small cake-stand to encourage that one flower before it gave up. New flower buds, I just noticed, are lifting their heads now.
And this handful of sweet basil, cut months ago, lives on in a jar next to the sink. It is awesome how most herb stems will take root like this and thrive happily in nothing but water for months on end. The smell is wonderful. It freshens the air during the winter when the windows can't be left open. Plus, you can always pluck a leaf or two when fresh herbs are needed for sauce or soup. It will not produce a bounty of new stems or leaves though, so I keep the plucking to a minimum.
Children may also find this process fascinating. If this lasts till spring, I will replant it and see how long I can keep the process going.
Only a few more days left of 2013.
Will see you all on the flip side.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!