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!
Reach for it is a great motto and the cyclamen flower a sweet inspiration.
The basil plant is amazing! I can just imagine the freshness.
Happy New Year!
Posted by: Lorrie | December 29, 2013 at 01:57 PM
My rosemary croaked this week. I wonder if it would have carried on that way. Have a Happy New Year!
Posted by: Vee | December 29, 2013 at 06:53 PM
Happy New Year!
Posted by: Pam | December 30, 2013 at 08:43 AM
Happy New Year~
Hope it's fresh and bountiful.
Posted by: Natalie, the Chickenblogger | January 01, 2014 at 10:31 AM