Old houses can be green and lovable
Who knows why some of us really like old homes and others don't waste a thought, much less a tear, even when something extraordinary is pulled down?
I am firmly in the camp of the preservationists, which puts me at odds with some people in my own family.
And now the old-building folks are claiming the "green" mantle. Using existing homes means less use of resources and less stuff for the landfill, you know.
In the current issue of Preservation, a magazine of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the subject of green windows comes up.
You will not be shocked to learn that recommendations do not include replacing your windows with spiffy new ones.
No, here you get tips about replacing glazing compound, using storm windows and painting, painting, painting.
You can complain about the work and the maintenance, but remember, the wrong windows are one of the worst errors when you're trying to make an old house look "authentic."
Visit Preservationnation.org.
Easy seeds might spark your garden
Fruits and vegetables are the garden stars this year, and Park Seed has some suggestions.
One of the more intriguing is the Lettuce Summer Glory Blend. Not only is it gorgeous, but supposedly you can sew the seeds outside now. That would give you fresh veggies pretty early.
It's on the list that Stephanie Turner, seed and accessories manager, has chosen for beginning gardeners.
Her other choices include a squash called Park's Straightneck, Bean Festina and Large Leaf Italian basil. The flowers she has selected are Heavenly Blue morning glory and Park's Picks Mix of zinnia.
Visit parkseed.com.
Would your eggs look good in this?
One great thing about Easter is that its arrival means spring is here, too.
If your family needs a brightener for the holiday, Kohl's recommends this serving dish that looks like it was made from giant Easter eggs.
It's $25, and maybe if you serve the after-Easter egg salad in this, they will eat it. Kohl's also has pastel tablecloths and other treats like candles with carrot designs.
Visit Kohls.com.
- Deborah Donovan