“But the Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him.”
Habakkuk 2:20
Hello sweet friends. Spring has been bursting out all over our Appalachian Foothills. With a mandatory stillness, I have enjoyed this spring more than any in my recent memory. Last week was filled with gardening and working outside…enjoying God’s beautiful creation surely lifts my spirit!
Can you believe it is already the third Monday of the month and that means a new edition of Monday Morning Blooms with my lovely blogging friends. As we continue sheltering at home, I am more aware of simple pleasures…a cup of coffee, a good book, conversations with my hubby, preparing meals, sitting on the patio, and listening to music, to mention just a few. And more than a simple pleasure has been time with my Heavenly Father. When life returns to whatever the new normal will be, I hope I don’t forget the important lessons of being still and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
So what does one do when you can’t go out and purchase flowers at the grocery store and your garden is not yet in bloom?
I decided I would not fret. I know I can always find wildflowers in our woods…those pretty blooms that I used to call weeds. Our common theme for this Monday Morning Blooms is “anything goes”, which is perfect for our current situation.
You will find the links for my talented blogging friends at the bottom of this post.
I was so excited to come up with these colorful spring blooms! I called a flower farm to see if they had ranunculus in bloom, and as you can see they did…lovely shades of pink, orange, yellow, and white. Social distancing was not a problem at the farm. Actually, Butch and I enjoyed the nice twenty-five mile drive, a simple pleasure with my Renaissance Man!
These gorgeous azaleas were cut from my Dad’s house, the color is amazing. He planted this azalea for my beloved Mother many years ago. One of my most tender pleasures is spending time with my eighty-nine year old Daddy.
Several of you have asked about him during this pandemic. He is doing very well. Only my brother and I are visiting with him during this time. We take his meals and make sure he has everything he needs. He is such a sweetheart with a sharp mind and a wonderful sense of humor. He never complains, he is such a joy!
It was a beautiful day for setting the picnic table. Playing with dishes and flowers always makes for a fun afternoon…more simple pleasures!
The table is very rustic, but was elevated with pretty spring dishes and flowers.
The Williams Sonoma plates depict four different spring scenes. When I was showing my Renaissance Man this photo, he didn’t realize the Lady Banks roses I placed on the plate were real. It does kind-of-trick the eye, not my intention just serendipity!
Three bouquets of ranunculus were placed in ice cream sundae glasses and two bouquets of azaleas were placed in small vases to make up the centerpiece, anything goes, right? A couple of bird nests were also added. It seems that the birds have been particularly busy building and feathering their nests over the past couple of weeks. I don’t believe birdsong has ever been more enchanting…a simple pleasure!
“The family should be a closely knit group. The home should be a self-contained shelter of security; a kind of school where life’s basic lessons are taught; and a kind of church where God is honored; a place where wholesome recreation and simple pleasures are enjoyed.”
-Billy Graham
Everyday white dinner plates, twig flatware, turquoise stemware, and pink napkins complete each place setting.
The butterfly plate is my favorite of the set.
If you want a simple centerpiece, using small individual bouquets is so easy, with no skill necessary. Use your imagination, there are limitless possibilities!
Lidy, Mary, and Shirley have beautiful floral inspiration to share with you, be sure to visit each one of them. The simple pleasure of reading blogs connects us with like-minded people!
Shirley – Housepitality Designs
Mary – Home Is Where The Boat Is
Thank you for your visits. Spending time reading your gracious comments is definitely a source of pleasure.
Wishing you simple pleasures to enjoy each day!
Linking with:
Pieced Pastimes, Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
Imparting Grace, Calypso in the Country
Just beautiful Pam! You are so right about the simple pleasures. We all have more time to stop and smell the ranunculus these days 🙂 These past several weeks at home have taught me to slow down and the little things. I love your pretty picnic table and the juxtaposition of the rustic wood with your delicate blooms and pretty plates. I’m glad to hear your dad is doing well during this pandemic. I hope you’re not getting flooded this morning. It’s raining here but most of the heavier downpours are south of us. Hopefully the sun returns tomorrow for you. As always it’s a treat to join you for some flower therapy. Happy Monday ♥
Thank you Mary. Yesterday and today have been beautiful with highs in the low 70’s. Rain and storms return on Thursday!
Pam, I know you always enjoy the simple pleasures. You can see it in your creations, whether it be in a tablescape in your gorgeous dining room or outdoors on a rustic table surrounded by the beauty of your gardens. I love it when you share a cup of tea with us on your sofa with lovely vignettes on the ottoman. How wonderful is that table with flowers of joy. Your mother’s azaleas are beautiful and I am sure you can feel her presence at the table. Your dad sounds like my mom. Always happy and just a joy with not a complaint to be heard. My mom is with my brother now in North Georgia…it is a good place for her in these times. I love the dishes, the beautiful Lady Bank rose is truly breathtaking. Glad to know that you were able to obtain the ranunculus from your friend’s flower farm! I know you are enjoying your gardens even more these days Pam. Stay safe and always a pleasure and joy joining you for Monday Morning Blooms.
Thank you Shirley. I am so glad to know your mom is doing well.
Pam, what a beautiful Spring table. It feels positively joyous! You are so right about this Spring, I have never heard so many birds singing. Even my hummingbirds came back a week early! Would you believe I had a flower arranging accident?!? I was trimming some azaleas with my garden shears to fit in a vase when I misjudged and chomped all the way through my fingernail. It is still very sore but I am so thankful I did not cut the end of my finger off. And I finished my arrangement!
Oh Roxanne, I am so thankful your injury was not worse, it sounds bad enough. I am glad the arrangement was finished♥️
That’s such a pretty table setting, Pam! Love the flowers you chose, especially the azaleas, and the plates are really nice. The pink and turquoise are happy colors for spring!
Thank you Rita.
Good morning dear Pam. Your rustic table is definitely elevated with these WS plates and ranchulus blooms. So beautiful on this rainy morning. I really like your Billy Graham quote. I too am thankful I have a heart for simple pleasures. Gardening and watching the birds satisfies my soul. So glad to hear your Dad is doing well. What a blessing for you. A robin is building in the eve of our house just above one of the columns. From where I sit, I have been able to watch her work. Thank you for the beauty and joy you always bring.
Such a lovely post, thank you Pam❣ The flowers are stunning, and I really enjoyed your spring plates, especially the beautiful bird. It is such happy news that your dad is doing well through these times.
I’ll be remembering to enjoy all of the wonderful simple pleasures…
Thank you Sue. Wishing you a lovely week!
Your table is as beautiful as your message Pam, and you certainly had no trouble finding colorful blooms! I am crazy for rananculus and love the different colors you chose, perfect with your Daddy’s bright pink azaleas! Your colorful table set on the bright green grass, such a bright and uplifting scene!! You are right about treasuring the simple things, and a lesson I hope we all never forget…thank you for spreading joy!
Jenna 🌷
Thank you Jenna. You are always so encouraging. Wishing you a joy-filled week!
What a beautiful picnic setting!
Thank you Penny!
Beautiful post this morning, Pam. The colors are magnificent, and the beauty of the flowers and the china create such a lovely vignette. So glad to hear that Coke Man is doing well; he is so precious. I agree with you that I hope I remember the joys of this simple time, when we return to a (new) normal. I hope your weather is milder than it was last weekend. Love to all.
Thank you Patti. Wishing you a beauty-filled week my friend.
Lovely, Pam. Our azaleas are also in bloom. My irises are starting up too. Our avian choir is in full voice every morning, waking us up at early light. Your outdoor tables are always delightful. Stay well.
Thanks so much Carole. The avian choir is a lovely description of birdsong!
Every detail is beautiful, Pam! This post made me smile and lifted my spirits. Like you, I am enjoying the simple pleasures of life. I love the Reverend Graham’s quote. It is exactly how I feel about my home. Take care, and enjoy this lovely day, sweet friend!
Thank you Shannon. Wishing you a joy-filled week my friend!
Truly stunning! I wish it were warm enough in NW Ohio to find the flowers.
Loved your pictures!
Blessings to you and yours!
Marie
Thank you Marie. Wishing you a lovely week!
I can’t really find words to thank you for this post. The flowers are beautiful as is the setting. I love birds and butterflies as well,so do enjoy your china. The birds have been extra special to hear this spring!
Thank you Karen. Wishing you a simple pleasure kind of week!
Pam, What a pretty picnic table! We’re so happy your sweet Daddy is doing well. The azaleas are beautiful and the color is outstanding. The brightly colored ranunculus are lovely. I, too, was fooled by the lady banks roses on the plate. The salad plates are perfect for this serene setting. The table runner is so representative of Spring. Isn’t it amazing how a short drive now is a treat rather than a chore? Stay safe and well sweet friend! Clara ♥️
Thank you Clara. Yes, a drive is a nice change. Wishing you a lovely week my friend ♥️
I have a sign at the Lake House that hangs in our kitchen that says Enjoy the Simple Pleasures! Your table is a breath of fresh air during these crazy times!
Those plates are adorable and so happy you found flowers.
Glad your Dad is doing well. Stay well my dear friend… Happy Week to You and Yours!
I like your sign, it is a great reminder. Thank you and Happy week my friend!
Thank you for these beautiful simple pleasures PAM!
Your rustic table is just the best. I tend to prefer rustic to — for lack of a better word, fancier — anyway. But the simplicity of the birds’ nests next to the vase just hits the right note. (And I love that I have that table runner, too!). Beautiful china, the whole thing!
Rustic suits me Jeanie. Thank you and wishing you a beauty-filled week!
Thank you for the Billy Graham quote. It is one that is a good reminder and model for all to aspire to. It should be more universally known. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you Maria. I had never heard the Billy Graham quote.
Good Monday Morning, Pam! I’m loving those aqua glasses and those coral azaleas … a picnic table that’s absolutely charming and inviting …
Thank you Linda!
Your table is as beautiful as your heart, dear friend. It gave me great joy this morning to read your post, uplifting, inspiring and like a hug from you. It’s so good to hear your Daddy is doing well, what a blessing to have him. Thank you for this happy cheerful table and post, it’s my favorite way to start the week, our Monday Morning Blooms! May God bless you and keep you safe. Xo Lidy
Thank you Lidy. May God bless you and keep you safe my friend!
Pam, I adore your picnic table with the beautiful setting. Oh girl…yes, those WEEDS sure have gotten my attention more in my older age. My little grands will pick the cute yellow and purple wildflowers and they love them. What I too used to call weeds has surely turned into a grand eye beauty for me. In the past I have bought fresh flowers from local grocery as I love them so much but now limiting myself as much as possible and that is mainly to pick up a prescription refill or something. I just planted some pretties in pots and hope they will be bountiful so I can make a lovely bouquet. I love Billy Graham’s quote! Happy Monday. Hugs and blessings, Cindy
Thank you so much Cindy. Yes, I am pretty much sheltering in at home. Stay safe sweet friend!
Pam, your table is lovely. The dishes and your flowers are so pretty. You are right, “The birds have been especially busy this year.” There is a robin who wants to nest in the wreath on our front door. I would leave her alone if our front door did not have scrolled iron work and it is quite difficult to clean.
I do love the Billy Graham quote, he always had wise words. Wishing you a lovely week and I hope the storms have moved away from your area.
Thank you dear Sandra. The skies cleared this morning and it was a beautiful day.
I love your title,” Be still and Enjoy Simple Pleasures.” I have savored the simple pleasure so much more this past month and I don’t want to go back not doing that. After the stormy nights the last two Sunday’s the sunshine and thankfulness for safety is uttermost in my mind.
Your table is s lovely respite for souls like me to enjoy. Beauty does lift our spirits and it is rewarding to enjoy it with like minded souls.
I delighted in seeing your beautiful bird plates again and your ranunculus charm me. Your bird nests and twig flatware and azaleas added the perfect touch.
Beautiful post!
Thank you dear Bonnie. Those storms during the night can be so scary. I am so glad you are safe.
Oh Pam, if all could emulate Billy Graham’s admonition, even in small measure, what rewarding lives could be lived… My
Husband used to say, “If everyone would really take care of their own, the world would be fine.” I guess it does come down
to simple living and pleasures and you have captured that spirit for us today. Thank you for reminding us that at such a pace
we can realize what life has to offer. So gratified that your Dad is flourishing in his usual goodness and remaining well through
this time. His “love” azaleas highlight the table setting; what a tribute in color to your Mom….Hope the “storm” stays away
from your garden gate and that you have a blessed Sabbath….
Thank you dear Mary. We only had rain last night, no storms in our area.
Thank you so much for sharing these beautiful flowers and tablescapes. The only flowers in bloom on the Island, presently, are forsythia. With the absence of same, things are gloomy here. I am looking forward to warm weather (we have a freeze alert for this evening) and attending church once again!
With gratitude, Ilene
Ilene, I can’t wait to be back in church with my faith family. Hopefully your weather will warm soon.
As always, Pam, thank you so much for giving me a week’s worth of eye candy. The blooms are positively breathtaking. Stay healthy. xx
Thanks so much Katie for your kind words.
So cozy and pretty!I just love this table,really adorable! Thank you,dear Pam! Blessings!
Thank you dear Maristella.
Your table is totally lovely, but I’m so in love with your arrangement in the tin watering can…gorgeous, so many thanks for sharing!
Thank you Sandi. I did enjoy arranging the watering can!
I know what you mean. I am enjoying such precious moments with the dear Lord and my precious family. To be honest, not much about life has changed for us, and as we “shelter-in-place” we feel a sense of the Lord sheltering us more than ever. We cling to Psalm 91, “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” There is no safer place to “shelter” and abide. He is our all in all.
Thank you Cheryl. I love Psalm 91 and Amen!
Seeing the ranuculas made me happy. They are among my favorite flowers, but I have no luck at all with them in my garden, but I keep trying. You are right about simple pleasures. They are often overlooked but are among the best and that is especially true now.
Ranuculas, how I love them and their happy colors. I don’t have very good luck growing them though I do keep trying. I envy your having so many blooming things in your garden. Hope all is well.
Thank you Linda. All is well at our house!
So beautiful Pam. It is the simple things. I love poking around our gardens to see what is in bloom. Even wild flowers around the property are lovely. Ranunculus are so beautiful. My neighbors raises them. Love the sweet bird plates. Happy Sheltering.
Thank you Linda. Stay safe dear one!
Pam, I’m late arriving to your beautiful post. I’ve spent much of my week out in my garden. You are right about simple pleasures. To me, that is what gardening is all about. With few flowers available here, I look to my garden as well. My wild area offers up petite wildflowers on occasion. I need to remember to spread seeds and generate more. It is so shady that only certain ones will grow. None last long as cut flowers. Too delicate!
Your table is such a happy spot. I’d love to dine with you!
Take care and stay safe. I’m glad you and your brother are helping your dad and making his days happier with your visits. I can imagine how lonely it is for some.
Be still and enjoy simple pleasures! I like that!!!
Thank you so much Sarah. We have been gardening all week with more to be done. Stay safe dear one!
That’s beautiful table setting. I especially like bird plates.
Thank you for your visits! Stay well.
So gorgeous Pam! I love the azalea/ranunculus combination – it finishes off your lovely table perfectly! 💗 Take care over there, and stay safe!
Thank you Barbara. Take care and stay safe ♥️
I love all the bright colors and all the flowers are beautiful! It’s storming here so these flowers sure brighten up my night! 🙂
Thanks so much Michelle. Happy Sunday!
Your tables and flowers are absolutely gorgeous😍 I’d luv to invite you to share it with us at Home and Gardens Link Party🙌🏻 https://www.dabblinganddecorating.com/single-post/2020/03/31/Charming-Homes-Gardens-Wednesday-Link-Party
Such a beautiful table! Serene and yet so colorful…I would love to have a glass of lemonade at that table!
Thank you Anita. Have a wonderful week!
Wow, it is all so beautiful! Just lovely, and yes, the flower on the plate did trick my eye! I am definitely enjoying simple pleasures now, and I hope never to forget that.
Thanks so much Pam.
Your tablescape is like a breath of fresh spring air. I LOVE everything about it. I am going to see if WS still has the plates, they are stunning. May I ask where you purchased the twig silverware?
Thank you so much. The twig flatware is from Pier 1.
Oh my goodness, this is absolute perfection!!! You’ve inspired me! I have been wanting a wooden table for a long time, and now I want one even more! I can see me getting a group of good gal friends over for tea and dessert at a table set up with so much feminine charm! The ranunculus are so vibrant and perfect! That is fun that you and your husband were able to go to the farm and pick them! The azaleas are jaw-dropping as well. What a great mix of flowers! The silverware, napkins, and gorgeous plates match perfectly. And the backyard with all that lush green beauty… It is just too perfect!!