This morning I received a call from my neighbor who had moved out of the beautiful farmhouse across the street. They moved to an even lovelier and larger farmhouse a few miles away. She was calling me back because I wanted her permission to hack away at the Forsythia flowers on her property. Her response was, "Hack away Laura! And while you're at it, take the Magnolia when it blooms." Music to my ears.

After chatting with her for a bit, I grabbed a knife, threw on Jon's coat and headed out the door. The brisk air this morning made me wince. I had a look of determination on my face as I marched down the street. Then the thought crossed my mind that I may look like a serial killer - serious face, dwarfed by a big coat and a shiny knife in hand. So I thought I should put a happy step in my walk so I wouldn't scare anyone. Although the thought of a smiling person wielding a knife is a little scary as well. Anyway...

The branches were wild and unruly so I just took them at random. I had my tall Homegoods vase in mind so all I needed were the stems to be long and thick enough to fill the large space on the wall.

I didn't pay much attention to form except that I wanted single branches to stay in line with the side shape of the vase. The rest of them in the middle could just go crazy and do their thing. And then as the sun started peeking through the window and the Forsythia livened up their little corner in the entry, they did do their thing...cue Spring!

A little HomeGoods every now and then

Last Saturday called for a HomeGoods trip. Do you have a store near you? When I lived down South, there was a HomeGoods about 5 miles from my house, now it's 56 miles but when it comes to that store, coupled with good company, funny conversations and good food, it's never too far.

I was looking for some mirrors and pillows but didn't find exactly what I needed. That just means another trip in about a month or two. Their inventory changes quickly so I'm sure there will be something next time.

I did buy some baskets, fancy shmancy dish soap and a shower curtain. And since Marshall's is right next door to the store, I also came home with some clothes and accessories for the kids.

I had already paid for my purchases when I spotted this urn/vase. I put it in my cart just to think about it. Do you do that too? I'll put items in my cart, continue shopping and then end up editing my purchases. But I knew if I didn't get it, I would wish that I had. I've never seen one like it so I think it'll add interest to a room. I still have to figure out where it will go though. For now it's just sitting all by its lonesome.

It was a fun and funky purchase. Even better was the clearance price - just $18.00 marked down from $49.99. I wish I had another.

So for you lucky people who live in closer proximity to HG, have fun on your next shopping trip!

Maybe it's good that I don't live closer after all.