More Flower Fun

If the winter blues are getting the best of you, then it might be time to sample a taste of spring at one of the dozens of flower shows being hosted in major cities around the nation. In a previous blog I detailed some of the nation’s most popular orchid shows. But, if you can’t make it to Miami, New York or St. Louis in the next few weeks, then consider visiting the following flower expos taking place in other parts of the country: San Francisco Orchid Society Pacific Orchid Exposition, March 6-8 Smoky Mountain Orchid Society Show, March 6-8, … Continue reading

Fun with Flowers

Spring isn’t exactly close to springing where I live. In fact, we’re currently under a winter storm watch. Meteorologists say up to 10 inches of snow is headed our way in the next 24 hours. Needless to say, I miss Hawaii more than ever–the warm sun, the beach, and most of all… the amazing flowers. Several U.S. cities help residents deal with the winter blues by hosting spectacular flower shows. Unfortunately, I don’t live near any of them, but you might. If you are looking to take a break from the bitter cold, ice and snow, consider checking out one … Continue reading

Dog Days of Summer Deals for Dogs at Doctors Foster and Smith

There’s not only a red tag sale going on for cats at Doctors Foster and Smith, but also great deals for dogs. Again, since we’ll be moving soon, I’m trying not to buy anything Murph absolutely doesn’t need. But here’s some things that caught my eye anyway: • Beef Flavored Aspirin, Berrier Joint & Hip Treats, and Hip Bones. Murph’s got mild hip dysplasia so I’m always looking for ways to treat it or lessen it’s impact. The aspirin’s 15% off now, the other two are both 20% off. • Booda Treat Stick. Murph’s a chewer and loves things to … Continue reading

Dog Days of Summer Deals for Cats at Doctors Foster and Smith

It may not feel like it, but the Dog Days of Summer are nearing an end. So are some of the great deals that some of my favorite pet stores are offering. Like at Doctors Foster and Smith. I always look forward to shopping in my Doctors Foster and Smith catalogs, but most especially when they send me ones with red tag savings up to 50% off. Sales won’t last much longer though. Their current deals are good through September 4, 2007. Since we’re getting ready to move, I’m actually trying to restrain myself from making any purchases. (I’ve already … Continue reading

The Dog Days of Summer: Why Dogs Take the Heat for the Heat

At the start of every month I consult lists scattered across the web to compile what I call my daily/weekly/monthly celebrations list. (Now you know why I’ve been writing about things like American Eagle Day, Adopt-a-Shelter Cat Month, and National Dog Bite Prevention Week.) Well, today starts what’s known as the Dog Days of Summer. Ever heard that expression? Ever wonder how it came to be called that? Me too. So I did a little more web-surfing to come up with the following: • The Dog Days of Summer refer to the warmest days of the season –and the “season” … Continue reading

What is Xeriscaping?

Unless you live in a warm climate you are likely in the midst of winterizing your yard and garden. We winterized our yard a few weeks ago (and it’s a good thing since it has snowed twice since then). Our recent snowfalls got me thinking about all of the other homeowners who don’t have to deal with the white stuff… or the wet stuff—rain. If you happen to live in a hot dry climate and are struggling to maintain a bountiful garden you should know about xeriscaping. Xeriscaping is a term used to describe low water gardening or landscaping. Xeriscape … Continue reading

10 Tips For The Beginner Gardener

Summer’s bountiful crops have served as the inspiration for many of my recent blogs. But, today it dawned on me that some of you might not have a garden. Or, perhaps, you really have no desire to grow one. I would hope that this is not the case. But, if it is, consider this blog an attempt to persuade you to think otherwise. Believe me, a few years ago I would have been considered the ultimate reluctant gardener, but once you see (and eat) the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor, I guarantee you will be hooked. If you have … Continue reading

Top 10 Flowers That Thrive In The Dog Days of Summer

If news reports are accurate, there is not a single portion of the United States that has escaped the crippling effects of this July heat wave. Is your lawn brown? Your flowers parched? Have you about given up on trying to keep them vibrant? Perhaps, things are not as bad as they seem. There are some very attractive plants and flowers that thrive in the intense summer heat (and I’m not just referring to cactus). If you are looking to add some color around your front door or along the back patio, consider some of these options that will offer … Continue reading