The dreary winter weather can have us feeling uninspired and bored with the same walls around us. While I have this sweet asparagus fern on my table, I wanted to bring a bit more of nature into the house to brighten things up and add some life to the kitchen.

So, when I did my weekly grocery shopping yesterday, I picked up a few basics such as apples for the horses, and garlic which is a staple in my kitchen, (of course). While in the produce section, I saw this sweet little rosemary plant which reminded me of the one I planted in my herb garden last summer. Into the cart it went. I picked up a simple bunch of white chrysanthemums, too.

As I unpacked the grocery bags, I pulled out a wooden salad bowl for the apples, and an old Bell jar for my mums. I looked and looked for a decorative pot for my rosemary to no avail, so I pulled a saucer from the cabinet, and placed the plant on top which worked just fine. Things don’t have to be perfect to be lovely, by the way. I placed everything on the cutting boards which I keep handy on my table.

Keep it simple. Make it Lovely

Here is a bit about Chrysanthemums (or, Mums). These are hearty, and long-lasting flowers which are simple and elegant. (I suggest a monochromatic bunch. I personally do not care for a bunch of multicolored mums, but that is just my personal preference).

To ensure that your flowers (any type) stay fresh, change the water daily, and add a little drop or two of bleach (I am not kidding). The reason fresh flowers pass quickly is because bacteria grows in the water. Bleach kills that bacteria, not the flowers. Be sure to trim the stems every day or so. A fresh cut allows the stem to take up the fresh water.