The Bunny Bungalow

Distant Angels

2012-01-04T19:10:00.000-06:00

My angels in Spain: for the Winter holidays, Dad took them to ski in the Sierra Nevadas, Spain.

Alexander, our teenage grandson, left us on short notice...a student position unexpectedly opened up at a school in Madrid. We miss him but are happy for him, as he really missed his little brother and sister, who are also in Madrid. You see, his two little siblings were answered prayers.

When Alexander was about seven, he really wanted a little brother. He was a lonely little Jewish boy at a Catholic school in Paris...and he was a skeptic. Sister Maria, concerned about his skepticism, asked him one day if there were anything that he really longed for. Without giving it a thought, he answered that he would give anything for a baby brother. Sister suggested an experiment...they would go to the chapel and pray for a baby brother. Alexander reluctantly agreed.

Months later, as he was putting away his coat, a file fell off a shelf in the closet. There on the floor was an ultrasound film of a baby that was very clearly a boy. "Mama, Mama, Sister Maria was right...prayer works! We are going to have a baby!

Cecilia took a bit more prayer. My daughter had been told, based on testing, that she was past her child bearing years. Then she started having symptoms of ovarian cancer. She quickly went to her gynecologist to tell him her fears. After an extensive exam, Misha was ushered into the doctor's office by a solemn looking nurse who helped her into a chair and patted her shoulder tenderly. "O. K., how long do I have to live? I have two boys, who will be without a mother, so I have to make plans."

The physician answered, "I have no idea when you will die, but what I do know is that you do not have cancer...instead, you are six months pregnant. It is a baby girl."

Alexander was not surprised.

A Belated Christmas?

2011-12-29T20:57:00.000-06:00

These Danish Advent Elves are from Maileg via Garnet Hill.

Who says Christmas is over on the 25th of December? These Danish advent elves say it isn't so. They will be travelling to Spain to surprise my little granddaughter and grandson, when they return from a winter vacation with their mom and teenage brother, Alexander. There will be a large jar of 25 interesting toys and gadgets with each elf. Alexander and his mom can choose a day to start the process and choose which toys to slip into the pockets each day. I think these two elves will ease the family into a new year at a time when things are usually a big letdown for everyone.

He's the Gingerbread Man

2011-12-15T14:27:00.004-06:00

Tall Husband won this adorable Gingerbread Man and gingerbread house at his company's holiday party yesterday. Thanks Sue for such a great door prize.

One of Tall Husband's favorite sayings is, "You can't catch me, I'm the Gingerbread Man." This he remembers from childhood, when his English grandmother read the story, "The Gingerbread Man" to him over and over. To them this was a story about being brave and invincible (never mind the tragic ending for the little gingerbread guy.) I do believe Tall Husband is invincible and I already knew he is brave. He has made a great recovery. In spite of his concussion, and surgical repair of an artery (from a broken nose) he's back to his work, slapping together algorithms and other number crunching feats. You go, Gingerbread Man!

Saving Love

2011-11-29T18:04:00.015-06:00

A loud thump awoke me and our two dogs who had been asleep beside me. I felt for Tall Husband; not finding him, I called to him. There was no answer. By the time my feet hit the floor, Scooter, our Maltipoo, had found Tall Husband in the hallway and returned to herd me through the dark . When I turned on the light, there was Tall Husband on the floor with a large pool of blood under him. For a millisecond I thought, "So this is how it happens," as he appeared so pale and lifeless. Then my heart screamed, "No!" and I was suddenly on auto pilot. I called his name, felt for his vital signs and determined that the blood was coming from his nose and that he seemed to be going into shock. As he was breathing and had a pulse, though a weak one, no CPR was needed. I covered him with a blanket and decided not to attempt to stop the bleeding as his face had quite a bit of damage. I told him he would be fine, then ran to call 911.

As I spoke to the 911 operator, Scooter ran to herd me back to his daddy. Skipper, the puppy was licking Tall Husband's face, as Scooter positioned himself to stand watch. The 911 operator told me to lock away any pets before the ambulance arrived, so with a great deal of difficulty, I put both dogs in the kitchen, shutting the old french doors behind me. As I ran down the front walk to open the gate for the EMS team, I heard the french doors burst open and a doorknob hit the floor. Scooter and Skipper ran to greet the EMS team and lead them to Tall husband's side.

At the emergency room, we learned that Tall Husband had a drop in blood pressure and had passed out, sustaining a broken nose, a fracture to the cheek bone and a concussion. Late that morning, we returned home to two worried dogs.

I wish this were the end of the story. Though Tall Husband seemed to recover, a few mornings later, the nosebleed began again...this time it was profuse. As he was conscious, I decided to take him to the Medical Center myself, not wanting to risk his care to the outlying hospital near us. I put him and the dogs in the car and drove to our nearby veterinarian's office where the staff quickly took the dogs so we could be on our way.

As Tall Husband exhibited signs of a concussion and kept bleeding, he went from the emergency room, to a hospital room and finally to surgery. In surgery, he was found to have an artery that had been punctured by a bone fragment. We are all home and he is recovering. Scooter, Skipper and I are reluctant to leave his side. When he goes to his office out back, we leave the intercom on so we can hear him if he needs us. I was so cool headed through it all, then last night alone in the laundry room, I broke down and sobbed...remembering how I first thought Tall Husband was dead, and feeling how grateful I am that my Love is still alive.

Note: Thanks to all our friends, family, hospital staff, 911 operator and EMS staff for your loving care and support. Thanks to Scooter for being a great little service dog. And thanks to Skipper for being there and offering puppy support. Also, I thank each medical and CPR trainer who taught me through the years to keep a cool head and break down later.

I Say Armadillo...He Says Tatou

2011-10-23T20:46:00.007-05:00

Though Alexander was born in the United States, he has grown up in Europe and speaks French like a Parisian. He sounds like an American teen when he speaks English, but don't be fooled by his lack of an accent, as he's really a French teen. So the Americanization of Alexander continues. First there were the driving lessons in the fourth largest city in the United States, then learning about your homeland through your grandparents' eyes...

grandparents who are Texans with weird ideas about what being a North American is,

who take Alexander to eat barbecue, then to see kitsch such as a giant armadillo, uhr...tatou, with red glowing eyes.

And to a Beer Can House only a redneck mother could love...above is Alexandre, Alexander to us...with his back up against a wall of more beer bottles and cans than you would like to know exist.

Above is said Beer Can House...burp!

Well, I think the tatou and the Beer Can House are both what we refer to as road kill in Texas...so horrible you can't take your eyes off them. It's on to the shooting range next!

Teens and Other Puppies

2011-10-12T10:37:00.007-05:00

Alexander and Scooter are calmly waiting for the driving instructor and the first driving lesson.

Alexander is off for his first lesson. He has never been behind the wheel.

Skipper wakes from a nap with Scooter.

Scooter is demonstrating the fine skills required for shredding...

...and rearranging the landscape!

Happily, our family has recently grown. Alexander, our oldest grandson, arrived from Europe. He seems like an American teen, but his best language is French and that is the culture he knows. Besides Paris, he has also lived in Brussels, Madrid, and Moscow. So, there is some Americanization going on. Then, there is the little foundling pup, whom we named Skipper. We think he is part black Lab and part Cocker Spaniel. Skipper's training is being accomplished in large part by Scooter, our one-year-old Maltipoo.

The 6th Annual Heights Bicycle Rally & Scavenger Hunt

2011-09-01T14:24:00.008-05:00

Dust off you bikes and get in gear! This is what we all love about our neighborhood, Houston Heights...there is always something interesting and entertaining happening. Here's information from Donna Bennett, Chair, 2011 Heights Bicycle Rally & Scavenger Hunt:

The 6^th Annual Heights Bicycle Rally & Scavenger Hunt is scheduled for Sunday, October 2, 2011. This is a fun way to explore your neighborhoods on 2 unique routes! Riders can choose between a 20 mile ride and scavenger hunt, and a shorter 5-mile ride and scavenger hunt perfect for families. Pick one route or do both!

The Rally starts and finishes at Marmion Park, 18^th Street and Heights Boulevard. THIS IS NOT A RACE! Bicycle helmets are required for every rider to participate. Each rider receives a rally map, rally card and scavenger hunt clue list. Prizes are awarded to the riders who correctly identify the most mystery sights along the route. To be eligible for prizes, the rally card must be validated by a rally volunteer at the Official Bike Rally Check Point & Water Station on the route.

After finishing the ride, return to Marmion Park by 4 pm to turn in completed Rally Cards and Clue Sheets. All riders are invited to celebrate at Marmion Park for the Post Ride Party. Enjoy entertainment, fabulous door prizes, and great refreshments!

Don’t miss the Awards Ceremony at 4:30 p.m. You must be present to win!

All proceeds from this event benefit Houston Heights Association Community Projects.

For more information or to register, visit www.houstonheights.org or call 713-861-4002 extension 6.

P.S. I'll remind you later with a link in the right-hand column of this blog.

Dog Days of Summer

2011-08-22T17:08:00.002-05:00

These are the "Dog Days of Summer" and even the dogs want to stay indoors! Stay as cool as you can.

Morning Walks

2011-08-11T16:23:00.018-05:00

This extraordinarily large Sycamore leaf, which Tall Husband had framed recently, was found on our neighborhood walking trail. Just for comparison, note the leaf tucked beneath the frame. It was found last year on the same tree...and we thought it was large. The framed leaf is 12" x 12".

Early morning walks along a wooded trail are magical. Everyone else is still sleeping, so you have the cool, dewy world to yourself. Your senses seem keener...eyes and ears are sharper; the smells from the forest floor rise up to greet you. You see, smell and hear things you would have missed, had you waited for the sun to climb a bit higher in the sky...like this gigantic Sycamore leaf that was just within reach.

Puppy Love

2011-07-26T21:12:00.007-05:00

Scooter took us to the dog show. He didn't want to sit still to watch the competition but wanted instead to check out the real action. He found Ian and Wilson, the cutest and smartest little Westies. These adorable dogs have made commercials and Wilson is an agility champ.

He looked up to a handsome Great Dane.

Scooter checked out the local real estate.

He backed away from this exotic creature...not sure of its species. This is Midas, a Chinese Crested Dog.

He cast a curious glance at the two cuties (above and below) in clothing. (Slap me if I ever get this silly.)

Scooter thought a scarf was acceptable, though.

Scooter couldn't get close to this precious pup, as she was on the move. (I know, the photo is blurred because she wouldn't sit still but I had to show her!)

Scooter (left) is smitten by this petite charmer, "It's just you and me Babe and there's a little pink cottage waiting for us over on aisle D" (Translation from Dog Talk.)

Design a Bathroom Around This

2011-07-17T20:20:00.009-05:00

And they did. Our tiny guest bathroom with its original clawfoot tub is a little masterpiece, making our two Cote Bastide wall hooks at home.

Note: We had been saving the two wall hooks for two or three years...not knowing where we would use them.

Smile...when it's time.

2011-06-30T22:05:00.007-05:00

I was looking at an on-line magazine, Rue, and in a photo shot of a Swedish designer's home was a gold framed mirror, leaning against a wall,with this hand written in black on the mirror: "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." I googled this and found that it is a quote attributed to Dr. Seuss. The old guy was deeper than I knew. I think that is what you and I do, after the passing of some time...smile.

At this stage of my life, I have a lot to smile about.

National Take Your Dog to Work Day

2011-06-24T22:36:00.007-05:00

Scooter heard that today is National Take Your Dog to Work Day and is getting ready to go to work with Tall Husband.

Come on Mom and turn on the water! You know dogs don't have opposing thumbs...if we did, you would be going to work with me today.

I've Got to Button Up My Lip!

2011-06-16T14:29:00.002-05:00

Do any of you have my bad habit...blathering without looking around to see who might hear? At 4:00 AM the other morning, I was standing on my front porch in my nightgown, waiting for my puppy Scooter to take care of business. "Don't you want to pee-pee for Mommy?" I pleaded. There was a sudden scurry on the public sidewalk next to my picket fence. I realized Scooter was not my only listener. A young man had thought I had a proposition for him, so he quickened his step to make his escape.

Madeleines

2011-05-30T13:14:00.003-05:00

Madeleines made with fresh lemons and white Mexican vanilla are Tall Husband's favorite sweet. What's yours?

A Stolen Magnolia

2011-05-18T11:03:00.002-05:00

An early morning walk with Tall Husband and our puppy always begins my day. This morning, we encountered this softly fragrant magnolia, hanging low over a path. As such a beautiful flower was too tempting to leave and no one was looking, it now sweetens the rest of our day!

Puppy and Pine

2011-05-17T09:43:00.002-05:00

A seven-month-old maltipoo and ninety-one-year-old pine floors at The Bunny Bungalow. Don't you just love the contrast?

Posies in Her Purse

2011-05-15T22:31:00.006-05:00

Orange Cosmos Cosmic, stuffed into a tiny moss purse.

Chair in the Back Garden.

Front Porch

Back Porch

This tiny purse covered in moss, lined in metal and plastic,was a weekend find at a nursery in our Houston Heights neighborhood. Now if I could just decide where she should perch!

A Wolf in the Kitchen!

2011-05-11T10:08:00.006-05:00

Alright, I'm bragging, gloating, name dropping: in my remodeled kitchen is the object of years of longing...a dual fuel Wolf range. What was the first thing I cooked? I boiled water for tea! A Wolf range is an extravagance but I rationalize by pointing out that I drive an old car. This kitchen is my new sports car and I cannot wait to drive her around the block, blow out her pipes, toot her horn...after we get through with the unpacking (are the boxes out in the garage multiplying?) So, for tonight I shame the Wolf with Kraft Macaroni and Cheese again.

The Bungalow Dining Room During Home Tour

2011-04-19T09:31:00.007-05:00

View of the bungalow dining room from the living room, just before the doors opened for the home tour. Note the new jute rug which replaced a patterned rug.

In the afterglow of the Houston Heights Association Spring Home and Garden Tour, we are now unpacking boxes for the move back into the bungalow. The new garage/studio has been completed for sometime...that's where Tall Husband and I have been living since last year. The Bunny Bungalow renovation is complete (almost) and we are loving it!

More photos later but it is back to putting in shelf liner and unpacking kitchen items now.

Is There a Stylist in the House?

2011-04-19T09:01:00.002-05:00

I get help from my little friend.

Flower Power

2011-04-17T11:39:00.007-05:00

When Houston Heights Association has its Spring Home and Garden Tour, each home has flowers provided by a Heights floral designer. Jana's Flowers was the floral designer for The Bunny Bungalow. Here are some shots of just a few of their wonderful arrangements.

Jana's Flowers, thanks!!

Jana's Flowers on facebook

Click on each photo to enlarge.

Remodeled Guest Bathroom

2011-04-13T21:06:00.005-05:00

Before

The old bathroom with inexpensive cabinets, vinyl flooring and a wonderful old tub.

After

The remodeled guest bathroom is a jewel-of-a-place with marble, tile, custom cabinets and v-groove added to take it back in time. We kept the original clawfoot tub, repainted a wonderful pale gray.

Links:

Rogers+Labarthe Architects

DD&L Enterprises, Builder

Deadline Met!

2011-04-05T23:57:00.003-05:00

We made it! Thanks to our wonderful builder and docents, we were ready for the Houston Heights 2011 Spring Home and Garden tour. More later...I have to recover now.

Flipping Out

2011-03-07T11:13:00.014-06:00

Tall Husband and I are flipping out. We are so excited that The Bunny Bungalow and the garage/studio are to be on the Houston Heights 2011 Spring Home & Garden Tour...but as you can see...the bungalow is not yet ready. The kitchen (above) shows promise,

the old clawfoot tub is waiting in the dining room.

The Stickley bed has been under wraps for awhile,

and from the upstairs screened porch of the studio, Scooter is keeping a worried watch on the progress. Stay tuned to see if we make the April 2, 2011 deadline! We may have to hand out hard hats.

A Really Good Shoe

2011-03-03T20:55:00.004-06:00

Scooter is loosing his baby teeth and cutting new ones. Guess we'll have to go barefoot!

In Pursuit of Childhood Memories

2011-02-28T19:41:00.016-06:00

Replica of a 1940 toy airplane...

now hanging 10 feet above the stairwell in the studio apartment...

retired after giving young grandchildren magical rides around the neighborhood.

This little plane holds a lot of childhood memories.

Tall Husband had told me about the little boy who lived down the street from him when he was five; the boy who had a pedal plane; the boy who would let no one ride in this plane. Tall Husband's parents knew he longed to have that plane...so they bought him a used, pedal station wagon! Not a cool ride.

Days after Tall Husband shared this memory with me, a new catalog arrived in the mail. As I thumbed through it, this little airplane flew off the page into my imagination...I could see Tall Husband as a little boy finally flying his little plane. When the plane arrived in time for our anniversary, I thought his heart would burst with happiness.

Each time a grandchild visited, Tall Husband carried the little plane outside for each child to ride, to imagine that they could fly if only they pedaled fast enough. Now that the little craft has been outgrown, it will hang in our stairwell for all to see.

So you can have a happy childhood, even if it does come late in life!

Note: Thank you Don, for hanging this piece of happiness for us today!

This Silver Pursuit is from Airflow Collectibles and was purchased years ago from Vivre.

Window Seat

2011-02-18T10:35:00.005-06:00

Mine!

Still mine!

Nap time now!

The purpose of this post was to show all of you our new white denim window seat cushion; however, Scooter refused to get out of the picture. You see, he thinks every package that arrives at the Bungalow is his. While guarding his window seat, he was leaping to the floor, attacking my camera and tripod.

Note: Scooter, our Maltipoo, was four-months old yesterday. We got his window-seat cushion at Cushions By Design via the Internet.

Scooter and the Family Portrait Pillow

2011-02-04T19:11:00.007-06:00

Before Scooter, our Maltipoo puppy, came into our lives, we ordered a family portrait pillow for The Bunny Bungalow's new studio apartment.

The pillow arrived after Scooter was part of our family...he noticed. We tried to convince him that the artist had misunderstood our instruction, "Long tail and short ears," and reversed the image. But he wasn't buying that.

So, we ordered a second pillow with a likeness of Scooter proudly displayed!

Scooter is quite happy now...look at that smile.

Note: We got our pillows from: K studio.

Bungalow Report

2011-01-24T09:39:00.006-06:00

Here's an almost-after shot of the back of The Bunny Bungalow remodel.

During...

and before (after the garage/studio apartment was completed and after the tacky deck was removed from the bungalow.)

Our Gang:

Rogers+Labarthe Architects

DD&L Enterprises

Gregory/Henry Landscape

A Bunny in the Hood

2011-01-01T12:10:00.009-06:00

Street art is by Coolidge, in the Houston Heights, on Rutland Street at West 19th.

Ralphie from the movie A Christmas Story.

The first day of the New Year, Tall Husband, Cute Dog and I hit the pavement to check out a new piece of Houston Street Art here in the Houston Heights. We find it a sweet coincidence that a boy in a pink bunny costume has been left on a corner, just two blocks from The Bunny Bungalow. Thanks, Coolidge...what a wonderful surprise.

The Night Before Christmas

2010-12-24T21:15:00.006-06:00

A tiny antique bronze mouse that belongs to Felix Hernandez of Behind the Garden Gate, a shop in the Houston Heights.

"...Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse..."

Merry Christmas to all of you!

Beware of Severely Cute Dog

2010-12-13T21:03:00.005-06:00

We don't worry about barefoot bandits at our house...not with Scooter on the job!

It's a Boy!

2010-12-09T17:21:00.010-06:00

Scooter

We have a new addition to our family. Tall Husband and I are no longer empty nesters. Meet Scooter, our black and white Maltipoo.

This eight week old, four-pound fuzz ball is helpful in fighting the autumn leaves...

...irrigating the lawn...

and just being the cutest thing you could imagine.

Note: Tall Husband found Scooter in our city, via the Internet...thanks Cathy. He's the smartest little guy! Also, thanks to Linda and Cute Husband for all the puppy advice gained via their adorable Yorkie, Alessandro.

Houston Loves Great Cars

2010-12-04T11:27:00.008-06:00

Tall Husband and I headed out this morning to the new venue for Houston Coffee and Cars December show.

Marq-E is the new, larger venue. The show has become so popular, Houston Coffee and Cars had to find a new place for showing off the rides.

Today's was the largest show ever. There must have been at least a thousand cars on display today...

...from this vintage sweetie with a wind-up key...

...to this sleek Lambo with a large price tag!

If You Can't Take the Heat...Build a New Kitchen

2010-11-30T13:25:00.011-06:00

That was our kitchen on the right.

The framing carpenters are at work at The Bunny Bungalow today. They are preparing the back of the bungalow for the new French doors. The demolition crew had previously removed the door and three windows. Tall Husband is fearless; I'm not! I feel as though the bungalow is bruised and bleeding.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T17:44:00.002-06:00

Saara's wonderful Turkey

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!!

Bungalow Demolition...or Don't Watch While They Make the Sausage.

2010-11-18T17:10:00.011-06:00

Sometimes things have to get really ugly before you can make them beautiful...a concept that is frightening to me. Yesterday, a great crew showed up to begin demolition on The Bunny Bungalow's kitchen. I didn't have the courage to take a peek until today. Tall Husband keeps reassuring me that the entire process and the skill with which the job is being managed and executed is beautiful.

OMG!! I hope the cake didn't fall.

Decades of wall coverings are exposed during demolition. Walls do talk and they say, "Tacky, tacky, tacky!"

Our Crew:

Production Contractors

Houston, Texas

281-265-6671

Día de los Muertos: Day of the Dead

2010-11-08T15:19:00.039-06:00

Día de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, was celebrated in true Mexican style in Houston Heights last week. Día de los Muertos is observed by many Mexicans and some Mexican Americans. The procession, marigolds, incense, dancers, sugar skulls, food and personal altars to honor deceased family members were part of the Houston Heights celebration, organized and hosted by Casa Ramirez Folkart Gallery.

A celebrant.

Día de los Muertos procession headed down 19th Street in historic Houston Heights.

Dancers honor the deceased on Day of the Dead.

A gigantic, colorful skull dominated the procession, then was parked outside Casa Ramirez Folkart Gallery.

Day of the Dead altars honor the deceased.

Sugar skulls for adding to personal altars.

Click on photos to enlarge.

Walk On The Wild Side

2010-10-30T15:25:00.015-05:00

Sometimes a girl's just got to be a bit wild and funky...

Kick her heels up...One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten...they're still there!

Hey, looking good...still got all my toes.

Note: Tall Husband spotted these wonderful shoes by Vibram Fivefingers at our Houston Whole Earth Provision Co. and insisted I get them, plus the toe socks too. Glad he did!

Out on the Porch

2010-10-17T15:22:00.012-05:00

These Adirondack chairs, on our second-floor-screened-in porch, are from Design Within Reach.

Don't you just love Adirondack style? Our new chairs are EC (ecologically correct), as each chair is made from 100 plastic milk bottles. I like to believe we're sitting on some of our old recycled bottles.

Never Say Never

2010-10-11T11:01:00.013-05:00

Allegiance by Patrick Medrano

Tall Husband and I swore that we had enough art, that we would never buy another piece, however, we live dangerously close to art galleries...walking distance. We were out for an evening walk when we saw that the old Heights-Theater-cum-art-gallery was having an opening. What could it hurt to just look? Well, you are looking at our latest purchase, an edgy sculpture by Houston sculptor/painter Patrick Medrano.

There are additional photos at My Ranchburger blog of the piece after we installed it in the art niche in the garage/studio behind The Bunny Bungalow.

Welcome home, Baby!

Note: The piece is from Gallery M Squared in the historic Heights Theater. There is an interesting back story associated with the sculpture, which I'll reveal when I know the ending.

Moving In!

2010-10-08T21:08:00.022-05:00

Architects: Rogers and Labarthe; Builder: DD&L Enterprises

It's finished! The garage/studio behind the Bunny Bungalow is finished and Tall Husband and I have begun to move in. Also, the hard scape, sprinkler system and French drains have been completed. Most of the landscaping is in. The new Adirondack chairs are on the screened second-floor porch. What a great place to sit and read or to chat with Tall Husband.

Gregory/Henry Landscape Design & Installation

The landscape architect had an antique-brick patio installed and our two crape myrtle trees moved...those trees are in their third location!

Jasmine is being trained to cover the fence and the old well is still with us. We are considering turning the well into a water feature and have inquired about an antique French pump.

See the back of the bungalow? The door and three windows on the right will be replaced by double French doors and a new porch. Oh, and that ugly gas meter will be moved.

Have a great weekend!

A big thanks to our friend, Mac (AKA Linda's Cute Husband) for moving all our boxes of books upstairs!!!

Bruised

2010-10-02T14:32:00.013-05:00

A Pair of Old Pears

Last Thursday, Tall Husband was scheduled for a simple outpatient surgery on his elbow...an ulnar nerve release. His pre-op exam was normal, including an ECG; however, during surgery there was a problem. He developed atrial fibrillation for the first time in his life. I knew there was a serious problem when I was paged and a staff member met me, telling me that I was to go with him to the post-op recovery room and was to stay with my husband (no one is allowed to stay.)

We spent several anxious hours watching the monitors, which were not giving us good news. We waited for the IV medication to "convert his heartbeat to sinus." Finally he converted and everyone cheered. Then he was sent to the telemetry unit in the same hospital...I forgot to mention that his orthopedic surgery took place in the best heart institute in the country, so his care was superb. He was in the right place at the right time, as the old saying goes.

A member of the medical team made a little bed for me next to Tall Husband's. All night I raised my head to be certain that he was breathing, as I whispered to Taddie, his late mother...yes, I talk to dead people..."Taddie, I'm taking care of him and I'm frightened." I promised her before our marriage that I would never leave him and that I would take the best care of him. She extracted that same promise from me before she died. I'm big on promises to others, especially if I love them, as I do her.

So, we are back at The Bunny Bungalow now. We are both bug eyed but thanks to a great team at St. Luke's Hospital, he survived good as new. Thanks, everyone!

P.S. I left out the part about what a horrible patient Tall Husband was; however, I think it was a reaction to the morphine given post surgery.

Milagros Win Your Heart

2010-09-23T11:54:00.023-05:00

The Milagros are from Behind the Garden Gate, in Houston Heights.

The antique Ex Voto is from Tongue in Cheek Antiques, the on-line Brocante in France

Handmade, antique gown from Willow Nest at Marburger Antiques Fair.

The long, gray linen scarf is from Beadboard UpCountry, Brenham, Texas. Maggie the Mannequin is from Heights Antiques on Yale.

Resources:

Behind the Garden Gate

238 West 19th Street, Suite B

Houston, TX 77008

713-864-1679

felix.flowers@yahoo.com

Beadboard UpCountry

Tongue in Cheek Antiques

Willow Nest

Heights Antiques on Yale

Houston Coffee and Cars: Perfection!

2010-09-04T12:20:00.022-05:00

Carolyn Farb with her vintage Aston-Martin at the September rally of Houston Coffee and Cars.

Click on photos to enlarge.

Early this morning, Tall Husband and I had coffee and croissants in bed, then threw on our jeans and washed the little red Porsche. We were off to the September rally of the Houston Coffee and Cars at Uptown Park. What a perfect event...fantastic wheels and beautiful people!

Links:

Carolyn Farb

Houston Coffee and Cars

Uptown Park Houston

Slide Show for September Coffee and Cars

The Back House

2010-09-02T10:00:00.010-05:00

The garage/studio, out behind The Bunny Bungalow, is so close to being completed! The second-story porch has been framed and is being painted today. Next, the porch will be screened in and a punch list of final items will be completed.

After the studio is ready for occupancy, we will move in, then begin remodeling on The Bunny Bungalow. So, I'm off to peruse the architect's plans for that project.

Link:

Rogers+Labarthe Architects

DD&L Enterprises (Builder)

Slide Show of the Construction Progress

The Poignancy of Paris

2010-08-24T10:39:00.067-05:00

A small, French antique chain-mail coin purse, a recent purchase from Corey of Tongue in Cheek Antiques.

A page from an antique French dictionary, in which the tiny coin purse was wrapped for safe shipping.

On the Page Above:

French: Salpêtrière. Lieu où l'on fait le salpètre. À Paris, La Salpêtrière, Hôpital de femmes, qui était en même temps maison de correction, et qui est aujourd'hui un hospice pour la femme âgées et pour les femmes en démence.

English translation: Salpêtrière. Place where saltpeter [one of the ingredients for making gunpowder] is made. In Paris, Salpêtrière, Hospital for women, which was once a house of corrections, but is now a home for elderly women and women who are insane.

When little French antique treasures arrive from Tongue in Cheek Antiques, the pieces of old papers, in which they are wrapped, are often as precious as the treasures. When this tiny chain-mail coin purse arrived, it was wrapped up in a page from an antique French dictionary. The paper appeared to be from around the 1800's.

As I smoothed the page out, a definition immediately jumped out at me...Salpêtrière. I was stunned, for Salpêtrière is the Paris hospital where my daughter almost died, by her own hand, some years ago. I shall never forget the phone call from Paris, the flight...not knowing if she would be alive when I arrived. When I finally made my way to Salpêtrière and to her bedside in the cardiac ICU that August day, she lay barely alive, pale and naked under a sheet, with tubes running from her body to numerous electronic monitors. Grateful but terrified, I maneuvered through the tubes and plugs to take her hand, wondering why my daughter had decided she no longer wanted to live.

That was years ago and in spite of herself, she lived...she survived an unfaithful French lover. She vaguely remembers him now, and I often think how horrible it would be to kill oneself over a man who is not memorable.

Since Salpêtrière in Paris, there hadn't been a time that I didn't feel my heart sink when the phone rang, that I didn't awake, dreading that I would eventually loose my daughter. Then this little coin purse, wrapped in that old page from an antique French dictionary, was dropped through the mail slot, landing on the floor next to the old easy chair where I sat. As I mulled over the coincidence, I recalled that Corey, who had sent it, is a cancer survivor who had been saved by the French medical system. That same system had also saved my daughter. I choose to believe that the serendipity, of the coin purse and the ancient page with Salpêtrière printed on it, is a sign for me to forget the fear of that time in Paris...to remember only that my daughter survived. So, I shall wear the tiny purse around my neck on a chain and inside there will be a snippet of antique paper on which is printed the 1800's description of the Salpêtrière. And I'll toss in the old French francs that I saved from that poignant Paris trip. Peace of mind sometimes arrives in strange, unexpected packages.

Note: This Paris hospital is now known as Pitié-Salpêtrière and is a prestigious teaching hospital. You may know it as the hospital where Diana, Princess of Wales, died in August, 1997. Read about Salpêtrière's long and interesting history here.

Playing With Your Food

2010-08-18T10:37:00.034-05:00

Food for Thought

Antique German pudding mold from Behind the Garden Gate, in the Houston Heights

Going to the produce section of your supermarket is as inspiring as hanging out at a great art museum. Mother Nature's produce is art in its purest form. But why did she make bell peppers so beautiful, only to make them taste so awful?

And before your start defending these beauties, I'm not the only one who doesn't like the taste of bell peppers; there is a community of bell pepper haters who gather on the facebook page, I Hate Bell Peppers.

So, I'm off to make spaghetti sauce...yes, with these bell peppers...just because Tall Husband loves their taste! Oh, what we do for love.

Yep, It's August in Texas

2010-08-15T19:37:00.011-05:00

Saara'a garden in Austin, Texas.

The heat has made us bug eyed. Every August in Texas, we shade our eyes and glance up at the burnt orange in the sky and wonder what the hell we are doing here. We find more wrong with Texas than just the heat. But come October, we'll have amnesia again and our Texas pride will surface.

Come on October!

Let's Be on the Level Here

2010-08-09T15:12:00.007-05:00

Before Pfister

The Bunny Bungalow is being leveled (no, not demolished; just made level, so that when Tall Husband walks across the room he doesn't have to hang onto to me.) A great Houston Company, Pfister, is doing the leveling job today.

After Pfister

So, this is after Pfister. Why are you still hanging onto to me, Tall Husband? Awwww...gotta go now!

pfisterlevel@att.net

Almost Heaven

2010-08-07T10:44:00.014-05:00

A vintage Mercury that has been frenched, flamed, chopped and shaved.

Linda, her Cute Husband, Tall Husband and I dropped by the Houston Coffee & Cars August 2010 rally this morning...what a blast. It was almost heaven.

Friend, Terry Lawell of Lawell Motorsports.

We caught up with good friends...

Check out the paint effect on this lightening rod!

saw rad rods...

A 1958 356 Porsche

and old heart throbs.

Note: Slideshow in right column or here.

Click on any photo to enlarge.

Lights, Camera...Front Door and More

2010-07-30T20:21:00.009-05:00

The construction doors are gone and we now have the permanent doors to the garage/studio.

The exterior lights have been installed and outfitted with CFL lamps. All exterior lights are on timers. The new timers are tiny, programmable units built into the light switches.

The full view from the driveway of the garage/studio. Our builder took away his sign, as he kept getting calls from people wanting to rent the "garage apartment."

Work has also begun on The Bunny Bungalow: the old deck has been torn down and hauled away; temporary steps have been built; the architects have begun the design of the kitchen and bathrooms renovation; and the piers were straightened and reinforced. Landscaping design is also in progress.

Today, our contractor had the roofing company take out the flooring of the second-floor porch and redo, correcting a problem the architect discovered this week. Next, the ceiling fan will have to be raised so as not to give Tall Husband an unwanted haircut. The above porch will be screened.

When the garage/studio is completed, we will move out of the bungalow and into the studio while the bungalow's kitchen and bathrooms are renovated. Fun, fun, fun!

Have a great weekend.

Austin's Love Affair With the Airstream

2010-07-06T11:09:00.056-05:00

A mini trailer is parked atop Tax Trailer's drop box. This tiny trailer was once sold by Pottery Barn.

One of Tax Trailer's offices is a vintage Airstream that sits on the roof of the Kimber Modern B&B in Austin, Texas.

Vicki Faust's Tax Trailer

Austinites are in love with the Airstream trailer. They have morphed Airstreams into boutiques, cupcake shops, crepe shops and so on. Now we discover that a CPA with a creative soul has a Tax Trailer which is tucked away in the SoCo district of Austin. The only street-side clue to the trailer's existence is a tiny replica, parked atop the drop box at the bottom of an obscure trail that leads up through a stand of four-leaf clover, to the rooftop Airstream. Somehow, tromping through all that four-leaf clover makes one feel fiscally fit!

Links:

Bouncing Bunnies

2010-06-26T18:47:00.008-05:00

Detail of a painting by Martha Gannon; photo of same by Annie Sitton

Who wouldn't want to spend time at a B&B with paintings of bouncing bunnies in every room? And you know how we love bunnies!

Fire on 22nd Street

2010-06-21T15:58:00.020-05:00

A motorist makes a hasty u-turn.

From our driveway, I watch as the fire fighters put out the truck fire.

Fire fighters use bars and power saws to open the hood.

Fire's out! Thanks, Houston Fire Fighters.

There is always excitement in the Houston Heights, our neighborhood, and today was no different. On 22nd street at the corner of Rutland, a truck burst into flame. Tall Husband ran out with my cell phone...he never has his own phone handy. While he was on the phone to 911, I was running down the street with our kitchen fire extinguisher (Tall Husband later teased me.) The Fire Fighters arrived with their equipment just as I was about to pull the pen on my extinguisher...so I ran back home to grab my camera, having missed a photo op of the really big flames.

No one was injured, as the driver seems to have hastily left the scene.

Construction Progresses at The Bunny Bungalow

2010-06-12T21:25:00.034-05:00

Bubble Chair, by French super designer, Philippe Starck, was a favorite at My Ranchburger, the home we sold last month. So, the chair will sit in the garden at The Bunny Bungalow. It now sits on an old deck behind our bungalow. The deck will be torn out and replaced with a ground-level garden room between the garage/studio and the bungalow.

Rogers+Labarthe Architects

Builder: DD&L Enterprises

The garage/studio addition behind The Bunny Bungalow, as it looks presently. Note that the upstairs door to the porch is now in (French door but in the arts & craft style.) Also note that the crape myrtle tree to the right has survived its transplant and is blooming.

Our laundry room (new counter top is covered in heavy paper for protection.) I love having windows so that I can do spot removal with natural light (Rogers+Labarthe Architects think of everything!)

One of the pair of wall sconces on either side of the window seat. There was one of these in the wonderful powder room at My Ranchburger, so we are so happy to have a reminder of our previous home here in the new studio.

There are so many choices to make! We chose oiled bronze finish for the downstairs door knobs and locks...

and brushed nickle upstairs, where we are using our modern furniture (think le Corbusier from the thirties.)

In the stairwell is the finished moment with lighting for a place to stick a piece of art.

This tiny, well-equipped kitchen is like a galley on a boat. It makes me feel like a newly wed though, as it is reminiscent of my first kitchen.

The stainless steel refrigerator is only 24 inches wide (those architects again...they can source anything!)

Ipe wood decking, which is fire, decay and insect resistant, awaits installation on the second-floor porch.

Tall Husband and I are now full-time residents of the Houston Heights! With our main home sold (last month in record time) and with the addition to The Bunny Bungalow's garage/studio nearing completion, we are almost ready to begin renovation on the kitchen and bathrooms of our 1920 Bungalow. And we are still married!

Rogers+Labarthe Architects have begun the design on The Bunny Bungalow's kitchen and bathrooms. I'll take before and after photos of that remodel.

She Just Lost Her Head

2010-06-03T21:52:00.012-05:00

Photo taken at Blackmail, a boutique in Austin, Texas.

I just lost it today! Tall Husband has often said that I need to get angry sometimes. Well, it’s too bad he didn't see me in action today.

An SUV pulled up in front of The Bunny Bungalow this afternoon. As I was expecting a landscape architect, I peeked out the window. What did I see? A motorist had just parked and began cleaning out his vehicle, throwing his trash out his window. I ran out on the front porch and called out to him, "Why are you throwing your garbage in my yard!?"

And without waiting for an answer, I sprang through the gate of the old picket fence, scooped up all his trash and threw it through the driver's window, right into his lap. He was so angry, that he peeled out, ran the stop sign, turned the corner on two wheels, then sped down a side street. I just smiled, because he didn't know about the huge speed bump in his path...his SUV made a lovely smashing sound when it hit that bump!

And Tall Husband thought that I couldn't get angry!

Bungalow Blooms

2010-05-31T10:51:00.025-05:00

Tall Husband's Yellow Hibiscus at The Bunny Bungalow

Summer is definitely here. We've had the hottest May that I can remember...into the nineties (Fahrenheit.) The flowers are loving it though: the big pots of lavender are fragrantly blooming, the daylilies are showing off in the old well, the Crape Myrtle trees are covered in bloom's and Tall Husband's new Hibiscus tree is covered with large yellow flowers every morning.

We need the inspiration and calm of all those blooms, as we are living with moving boxes stacked in the garage and all around us in the bungalow. The garage/studio is almost finished. When it is, we'll move in and empty out The Bunny Bungalow's bathrooms and kitchen, so that their remodel can begin.

I'm so excited about the remodel, as the same architects (Rogers+Labarthe) who did the design of the garage/studio will design the bungalow remodel. They were here last week to take before photos and measurements of the kitchen and two bathrooms. It will be wonderful to have the eighties re-muddle taken away, to be replaced by appropriate bungalow design.

So, we'll sit back and watch the flowers grow, as the bungalow becomes what it should be.

P.S. Do any of you have a Wolf range? I'm dreaming of a small one (36 inches) and wonder if they are worth the expense.

Thank You, Dear Friends

2010-05-18T10:23:00.001-05:00

White, Cream, Grey and old Woods

We are at The Bunny Bungalow in the Houston Heights, having accomplished a gigantic downsizing...from two houses to one over the last month. This morning, we will have the closing on My Ranchburger and say goodbye to a home that we have lived in for decades. I just want to say thanks to all of you who helped us decide which house to choose and how to go about the transition. You have made this transition so much easier with your wise advice and encouragement.

So, Tall Husband and I are off to complete the sale of My Ranchburger!

Arte Pura Giveaway at Beadboard UpCountry

2010-05-11T21:07:00.012-05:00

This sensuous pillow is the Arte Pura giveaway at Beadboard UpCountry!

There is a fabulous giveaway over at Beadboard UpCountry: the Arte Pura pillow, above, could be yours...or mine. If you haven't felt Arte Pura's Italian linen, you haven't yet lived the luxe life.

To enter the giveaway, go to Beadboard's giveaway post and leave a comment. Good luck to you all!

Now This Will Make You Happy!

2010-05-04T20:55:00.012-05:00

White Gerbera Daisy at My Ranchburger

Tricia Foley, designer, stylist and best selling author (Having Tea, Linens and Lace, The Romance of British Colonial Style, The Natural Home and more) has three new blogs: The White List, The Perfect Thing and In the Country. Click on over and be happy!

I'm off to add Tricia to my Blog List.

Arte Pura Italian Linens at Beadboard UpCountry

2010-05-02T15:10:00.050-05:00

Arte Pura Italian linen pillow with Swarovski crystals, just to melt your heart!

Tall Husband and I took another Texas road trip this weekend. Who knew that we would find the only purveyors in the United States of Arte Pura Italian Linens? That Maryanne and Robespierre of Beadboard UpCountry, had been shopping in Paris and discovered Arte Pura...bella occasione!

Well, what blogger needs an invitation to photograph beautiful linens?

And what perfectionist can help but zoom in on such details. Oh, I wish you could just feel the texture of these linens.

This is such an inviting bed, piled with all that Italian.

Not only are there bed linens but there are other items for the bathroom and table. There are even linen pajamas and shirts.

And if you bring home one of the Arte Pura coverlets, you get a bag like the one above to tote it in.

You're not in the mood for white? You want some color? As in the little bag above?

Above: Styling by Robespierre and photography by Tall Husband.

Well, there are forty colors from which to choose.

I know...you are wondering what I couldn't live without. I bought that white linen Arte Pura table runner for the antique dining table at The Bunny Bungalow...perfetto!

Links:
Beadboard UpCountry in Historic Brenham, Texas
Beadboard UpCountry Blog

P.S. Maryanne and Peter, shop owners, will ship items to you. Just give them a call or e-mail (info is on their website.) Arte Pura is special order only but those Italians are rapido.

Tall Husband's Birthday

2010-05-02T06:23:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday, Tall Husband! Love ya, my wild, sweet man.

May Day

2010-05-01T05:47:00.007-05:00

Antique French book with roses at Found

Happy May Day to you all!

Man Bag!

2010-04-23T07:54:00.011-05:00

Spotted at Marburger Farm Antique Show.
(Click on the photo to enlarge, then read the humorous question.)

Don't you just love a man with a sense of humor? Me too.

Have a great weekend.

One Last Look: Marburger Farm's Spring 2010 Show

2010-04-22T14:56:00.019-05:00

Before we drive away, lets have one last look at Marburger Farm's Spring Show. So, here are some random shots of this wonderful venue just outside of Round Top, Texas.

But don't step on the pedal until Tall Husband makes one last purchase: an adorable antique, hand stitched nightgown from Linda of Willow Nest. Awww, thank you, TH!

Until next time.

Terry John Woods' New Blog

2010-04-20T17:26:00.008-05:00

Photo taken at Marburger Farm Antique Show, Spring 2010

Terry John Woods, author of Terry John Woods' New Farmhouse Style, maker of delightful bears, artist, stylist and somebody I would like to meet, has a new blog. Now I wouldn't have known this so soon if Tall Husband had not noticed how longingly I looked at Terry's book the other day when we were at a bookstore. So today he took me back and bought Terry's book for me. I think it's an early birthday gift and only three days early. We don't buy gifts for each other unless the perfect gift happens along...perfect! The website listed in Terry's book led to my discovery of his blog. What a magical day this has been.

Machtolff's Mercantile Antiques at Marburger Farm

2010-04-20T10:10:00.013-05:00

The husband and wife team of R.S. and Carolyn Machtolff, Machtolff's Mercantile Antiques, have been showing their collection at Marburger Farm for years. They graciously let me photograph their beautiful antiques at the Spring Show. They had the most interesting array, everything from stoneware, to old polo balls, to European grain sacks, some of which were morphed into chic, functional items.

Machtolff's Mercantile Antiques
Anaheim, California
714-991-5353

Is This Storybook Heaven?

2010-04-16T05:00:00.001-05:00

As if this cottage, which is tucked away in the Houston Heights, weren't cute enough, it has flowers to match...masses of them. If you are not from Houston, let me tell you: these flowers aren't supposed to grow in this zone, but here they are.

I wonder if the homeowners have problems with bunnies nibbling at their greens?

Have you ever seen kale so large? Forget the bunnies, one must wonder if the neighbors help themselves to a nibble or two.

So, I've got to say, Pinch me, for I think I've stepped into a fairytale!

J Hill Designs at Marburger Farm Spring Show

2010-04-15T09:48:00.018-05:00

Judy Hill is another of the growing list of Bloggers/Antique Dealers who exhibit at the Marburger Farm Antique Show in Round Top, Texas. At her J Hill Designs stall, you may discover something for every whim or any room in your cottage. And her displays are so inspiring.

Teresa, author of Garden Antqs Vintage, has also posted on the Spring Marburger Farm Antique Show, so go have a look.
Also, Sweet Pea has posted on the Round Rock scene here.

Kim Hoegger at Marburger Farm

2010-04-14T07:54:00.017-05:00

Tall Husband and I met Kim Hoegger, blogger/antique dealer, at her eponymous stall, which was full of all things white, green and natural. Her space was a garden dreamland. She had really original items...just look at those adorable life-sized garden children playing among the white blooms.

Here's an idea to steal from Kim: plants dressed in raw-edged burlap.

Kim opted for potted plants instead of cut flowers so that she could have "something to take back home."

Visit Kim Hoegger Home here.

Ann Williams at Hill Country House has some great photos from the Marburger Farm Antique Show.
Also, Maryanne, blogger/shopkeeper of Beadboard UpCountry, in Brenham, Texas, has great coverage of Round Top, Texas on her Blog.

If you have photos of the big Round Top/Warrenton antique shows, send me your link and I'll put it on this post.

My Ranchburger is for Sale

2010-04-13T21:01:00.013-05:00

At My Ranchburger: Slate coffee table with marble sculpture and hydrangea.

If you are also a reader of My Ranchburger, the blog, you know that Tall Husband and I have put My Ranchburger, the home, up for sale. The Bunny Bungalow will be our fulltime home. This was a difficult choice, as I have lived in My Ranchburger during and since my college days and raised a family and a step family there. So, the place is full of wonderful memories. I'm the second and third owner of the home (but that's another story.)

You may see the listing here. There will be an open House at My Ranchburger on April 18th, 2010, 2-4 PM for anyone who's looking for a great Houston home with great neighbors. The address is on the listing.

If you happen by My Ranchburger, don't forget to notice my favorite reading spot...the hammock under the shade of the old pecan tree.

Sweet Pea at Marburger Farm

2010-04-10T20:05:00.021-05:00

While at Marburger Farm Antique Show in Round Top, Texas, I found three bloggers/antique dealers whom I had met on line. In this posting, you'll get a peek at Sweet Pea. Visit Sweetpea's blog at Sweet Pea Home. Also, have a look at her own photos of her Marburger Booth here...you'll adore her style. (All photos below are of Sweet Pea's booth on opening day at Marburger Farm Antique Show in Round Top, Texas.)

Drop by later to meet the other two bloggers/dealers.

2010 Houston Heights Spring Home Tour

2010-04-09T10:20:00.009-05:00

Glassell Home
1409 Allston

Photo from Houston Heights Website

This Weekend: Don't miss this wonderful tour: Saturday and Sunday, April 10th & 11th. Click here for information.

Dream On: Shopping in My Nightgown

2010-04-08T08:38:00.017-05:00

When we cover the Round Top Antiques Shows, Tall Husband and I find that there are plenty of interesting local places to lay our heads, that is if we plan ahead, months ahead. This picturesque little cottage is Evans Antiques at Stage Coach Inn in Chappell Hill, Texas where we stayed. I did a posting last year about the Stage Coach Inn, which is about an hours drive from Round Top for the average driver; for a crazed antique hunter it's forty minutes away.

Most of us hate those four-letter words but shopping is not a four-letter word...and if it can be done in your night gown, after the shop has closed, it's even more fun! Yes, these were our digs for the night. As Tall Husband watched television and played with the remote, I shopped!

The place was stocked with wonderful antiques and reproduction early American items from tabletop to lighting.

Oh shoot! The old grandfather clock is sold. But not to despair, for everything is for sale...I think Eileen Evans, the shopkeeper, would even sell her husband Steve.

Just look at the patina on that old hutch. And if you look closely, you can see Tall Husband working that remote.

Soups on!

Even the bed we slept in was for sale, as were the lovely antique sheets and pillows. Watch out for the price tags, they stick you in your sleep!

View from the bed.

Just one last shot and I was off to bed to dream of all the antiques around me. I fell asleep to the scent of beeswax candles and lavender drying on old racks across the hall.

Note: I didn't buy anything, as I had spent my allowance at Round Top and the historic little town of Brenham (more about that later.)

Hello Neighbor!

2010-04-03T19:05:00.023-05:00

Sonia, my Ranchburger neighbor.

Don't hit the photographer, Sonia!

Don't you just love it when you go someplace in The Big City and run into your neighbors? We do too. This morning Tall Husband and I went to Houston Coffee and Cars and there were Ron and Sonia, who live three doors down from My Ranchburger. Sonia is an actress (more about that in May.) So here she is... acting as if she were driving that cool 1959 Nash Metropolitan. To see more great rides at the Houston Coffee and Cars April gathering, click here.

Remember: Click on any photo to enlarge.

See other photos of the April 2010 Houston Coffee and Cars.

Opening Day at Marburger Farm Antique Show

2010-03-31T22:13:00.013-05:00

Here's a quick look at at the fabulous antiques at the Spring Marburger Farm Antique Show in Round Top, Texas. Later, you'll see more, plus get a peek at displays of our blogger/dealer friends. And...you won't believe where Tall Husband and I spent last night. Hint: I shopped in my nightgown!

Gettin' Goosey

2010-03-26T19:37:00.010-05:00

These are photos that I took last year at Marburger Farm in Round Top, Texas.

I'm gettin' goosey, as we say in Texas, 'cause Tall Husband and I are going to Round Top, Texas next week. Round Top, as you know, is a wide spot in the road with a population of 77, except each Spring and Fall when they put on the biggest antique show on earth.

I'll report back later...right now I'm off to make a list of bloggers to see while we're there.

Redbud Trees in Bloom!

2010-03-19T10:07:00.017-05:00

Cercis canadensis L. (Eastern Redbud)

Spring in the Heights is magical! Who doesn't love all the Redbud trees in bloom? And who would notice a Redbud tree if it weren't in bloom? In summer it's a scraggly runt of a tree in spite of it's pale-green, heart-shaped leaves but in winter...in winter it's best to glance the other way.

Indeed, blooms create the magic. I think I shall go adorn myself with flowers. Perhaps they'll make me look as young and fresh as spring...in my wildest dreams!

The Undie 500

2010-03-15T12:58:00.009-05:00

My twin granddaughters and I have had a tradition for years...for their birthday, we go shopping. Their Mama usually suggests what they need but this year is their fourteenth birthday so they decided they would decide. Fancy lingerie was the choice. We headed for a shop in the Houston Galleria that has more underwear than some entire countries.

It was so endearing to see one of the girls hold up a pair of filmy panties and say to herself, "I suppose I could wear something under them." Genuine modesty is so sweet and rare these days.

And The Paint Goes On

2010-03-15T12:34:00.006-05:00

This week the exterior paint went on. Our Contractor matched the paint to The Bunny Bungalow...green and tan, sort of a Ralph-Lauren-does-Arts-&-Crafts look.

The Confluence of Event and Time or How Isabel Allende Saved My Life

2010-03-11T16:44:00.018-06:00

French antique watch face and French letter are from Tongue in Cheek Antiques.

Isabel Allende has been my favorite writer for years. Her writing is full of magic, fantasy and reality, though I cannot tell when her reality fades into fantasy or back again. So how was I to know that her writing would one day save my life by showing me that I'm really a Zebra.

We have all experienced serendipity, or as I call it, the confluence of event and time. The event has no impact if the time isn't right. Take the time that my stepson, a physician, suggested that I read Paula, by Isabel Allende. Though she is a favorite fiction writer, I refused, as Paula is not fiction, it is about Isabel's losing her young daughter to a rare, genetic disorder. Having almost lost a daughter to attempted suicide in Paris, I could not read about another woman's tragic loss of her child.

Then a year later, I was home with a mysterious illness that was slowly drawing the life from me. This illness had forced me to abandon my career and my life had become about going to doctors, trying to determine what was causing the horrible attacks of pain, episodes of paralysis and a disfiguring skin disorder.

One afternoon, my stepson came over to visit. "How are you feeling?"

"I now believe in voodoo and if I find out who's jabbing pins into my Voodoo image, I'll maim the SOB."

"I brought you a gift, a book, to take your mind off the pain." The book was Paula. I didn't have the energy to remind him that we had previously discussed the book. While medication barely took the edge off my pain, it worked well to dull my judgement, so that night I began to read Paula.

What had caused the death of Isabel's daughter? Reading quickly onward, I finally came across the word Porphyria. What the hell is porphyria? I muttered as I lay the book aside and turned to my computer. As a therapist...I've had patients with every syndrome and disorder known, but I had never heard or seen this word. As I read about this strange disorder...my blistered skin, the pain, the acute paralysis, a myriad of symptoms...all fell into place.

Three years after uttering the dreaded word porphyria to my doctor...I was given the clinical diagnosis of porphyria by a team of doctors who had ruled out every other disorder and disease. There are tests for porphyria but these had to be carried out by special laboratories and my type of porphyria gives normal lab results when I am not in the middle of an attack, a known fact which the expert kept ignoring.

Back to the curious matter of the serendipitous gift of Allende's Paula from my stepson, the doctor. Had Allende not written that beautiful, painful book, had my stepson not unwittingly given it to me at the right moment, I would not be here to write this post...the confluence of event and time. Thank you, Isabel...thank you, Paula.

Note:

Why am I writing about this on a blog that usually deals with bunnies and design? Because I want to document how Tall Husband and I have found a way to control and live with this incurable, genetic, metabolic disorder, so that my children and grandchildren will have a blueprint for surviving and coping, should they have inherited porphyria. Plus, I know there are more of you Zebras out there, diagnosed and undiagnosed, who need to consider this information.

As I have learned, my type of porphyria (there are eight or more types) has a photosensitivity component: I break out in blisters when exposed to light, especially sunlight or the ever popular fluorescent lighting. There is a long list of medications that a person with porphyria cannot take (the wrong drug, given in a Madrid hospital, caused Paula's year-long coma, then her death.) In addition to certain drugs, one cannot drink alcohol for fear of triggering a life threatening attack.

Porphyria is a genetic, metabolic disorder and is triggered by environmental events. My triggers were: exposure to cats (an allergen), Atkins diet (persons with porphyria need carbohydrates), and two glasses of Merlot. Bang...I'm in the emergency room with acute paralysis, excruciating pain in every organ, plus deep bone pain; dangerously elevated blood pressure, vomiting and fading in and out of consciousness, and blistered skin. Six-thousand dollars later, we didn't know the cause.

Here's how I handle my type of porphyria:

Eat 6 small meals a day (every three hours.) At least 60% of intake must be complex carbohydrates, as this will help prevent the build up of porphyrins in the body. A dietitian helps me with this so that I can prevent weight gain.
Carry glucose tablets with you at all times (they are over-the-counter, in the diabetic section of the drugstore.) These little tablets can prevent attacks if taken at the first sign of an impending attack.
Carry codeine or another such medication at all times. If the glucose tablets do no stop an attack, the codeine usually will. My neurologist first prescribed the codeine, now my internist does. Never drive after taking this or a similar drug.
Take NAC to counteract the toxicity of acetaminophen (as in Tylenol) that is in the codeine medication.
Take a combination of magnesium (for bone pain and muscle spasms), zinc (for skin damage) and calcium. Porphyria depletes the body of magnesium, zinc and calcium.
Taking Potassium Gluconate, 550 mg, twice a day has stopped the acute paralytic attacks. These attacks can, according to my neurologist, leave one with permanent paralysis.
Wear hat and gloves even when driving. Sun screen only blocks some of the rays and you can still have skin damage from the rays that get through the screen.
Plan outdoor activities when the sun is not so intense.
Use prescription steroid cream on blistered skin.
Avoid fluorescent lighting. If you cannot, there are filters that reduce the emitted UV of the fluorescent bulbs, thus reducing skin damage.
Never, ever drink alcohol. Drinking (i.e., ethanol) is dangerous for a person with porphyria.
Carry a list of "safe and unsafe drugs" with you. Give this list to your dentist and physicians.
If you are having a full-blown porphyria attack...get to an emergency room so that they can give you the proper medication and prevent dehydration.
There is the idea that you do not have porphyria unless your urine is purple. Urine usually only darkens during an attack and only after being exposed to light.
Know the signs and symptoms of porphyria.
Know that today deaths from porphyria are rare.
And finally, have the rare, good fortune to have married Tall Husband who has a background in biochemistry and who has learned more about porphyria than any person I've met.

Link:

American Porphyria Foundation (Located in Houston, TX)

Addendum September 10, 2010:

A month ago I began taking Tagamet (Cimetidine) (200mg in AM and 200mg in PM) as a prophylactic to prevent porphyria attacks. I have not had an attack in a month...I usually have to fight off two or three attacks a month. Tagamet has even stopped the chronic porphyria pain!

Addendum December 28, 2011:
After being on Tagamet (Cimetidine) for a year, I began having the neurological symptoms of the attack (heart muscle contraction, laryngeal muscles contraction, leg and arm paresis; i.e., feels like heart and larynx are being ripped from my body and arms and legs are paralyzed.) All this without the usual abdominal pain. After some research, I learned that anyone taking Tagamet (Cimetidine) is at risk for B12 deficiency. Began taking B-complex vitamins and the symptoms have decreased.

Porsches, Pecs and Pumps

2010-03-06T13:43:00.010-06:00

A vintage 356 Porsche...

Pecs on parade...

And Tabatha's beautiful blue pumps.

Hope you are having a great weekend. This morning, Tall Husband and I ogled all the wonderful sights at the March gathering of Houston Coffee and Cars at the chic Uptown Park.

(See more photos of this event in the slideshow to the right.)

Behind the Bunny Bungalow Today

2010-02-26T16:26:00.008-06:00

Tall Husband was busy today checking out the fine details at the garage/studio behind The Bunny Bungalow. This week the Arts & Crafts windows are going in and the siding is going up. I'm already dreaming of being here!

See more new photos in the slide show to the right.

And have a great weekend!

A Peek Behind the Garden Gate

2010-02-20T15:49:00.044-06:00

Preserved hydrangea in a vintage Hungarian seedling pot.

An antique German pudding mold.

An old antique bed fit for a shabby chic princess.

Unique floral arrangements and a wonderful ceramic chicken, taking it all in.

The Fabulous Flora of Behind the Garden Gate

Behind the Garden Gate, a popular Houston Heights shop, recently moved into a new space, just down the street from the original spot on West 19th. Flora, aptly named canine shop girl, greeted Tall Husband and me on our visit there today.

Felix Hernandez, owner, has a wonderful way of juxtaposing floral arrangements, organic candles and unusual antiques. He also has a great selection of botanical books and local honey. His new shop offers the ultimate in chic cocooning.

There was a handsome, whitewashed terracotta toad hiding under an old table, next to an antique German pudding mold. He came home with us and will find a home with Tall Son, who is absolutely superstitious about toads. This toad truly seems magical, like everything Felix brings to Behind the Garden Gate.

Behind the Garden Gate
Felix Hernandez
238 West 19th Street, Suite B
Houston, TX 77008
713-864-1679
felix.flowers@yahoo.com

See more photos of the shop and Flora here.

Meet Maggie

2010-02-18T05:00:00.006-06:00

Meet Maggie the mannequin, my new friend.

Maggie, named for a favorite aunt, is the newest addition to our bungalow. We've been on the look out for a vintage dress form and when we found the perfect one at a neighborhood antique shop, Tall Husband insisted that I have her as a Valentine's gift. I simply couldn't say No.

As we were in his roadster, with no room for Maggie, Tall Husband carried Maggie over his head, back to the Bunny Bungalow. Though she had a brush with a low-hanging branch of a Redbud tree, she suffered no visible damage.

Maggie, are those my pearls you're wearing?!

Behind the Garden Gate

2010-02-17T09:17:00.007-06:00

Behind the Garden Gate has moved.

The other day, Tall Husband and I went looking for Felix Hernandez's Houston Heights shop, Behind the Garden Gate. We found him in his new space, a jewel box of a shop with sea grass floors and bright jewel-toned walls. He wouldn't let us leave without a gift box of some his new products: an orange blossom candle, Houston Honey, and soap from Provence...a bee theme!

Next Saturday we get to go back and shoot some photos so you can see Behind the Garden Gate for yourself.

Valentine's Day 2010

2010-02-14T10:17:00.005-06:00

Primitive heart and doll are from Brown; Antique French slate from Tongue in Cheek Antiques.

Happy Valentine's Day!
Wish I could give each of you a hug.

Remembering Nonie

2010-02-10T12:59:00.063-06:00

This beautifully made baby was once a stage prop for the traveling show, Ragtime. She can be found at Heights Station Antiques. She reminds me of a time when I thought I was Nonie's.

There are a few mysteries in my life and Nonie is one of them. My memories of this woman with a warm, ample lap are so vivid that I can quietly inhale and recapture her fragrance...soap, the sachet that she put between her breasts where she cradled my head; the smell of her lovely food simmering in large pots on the stove. When I really need to feel loved, I remember Nonie's nurturing.

Nonie is my first memory...for me, all life began in her arms. So when I found myself being pulled along a street by the hand, wearing clothes that didn't seem to be mine, it's no wonder that I balked and demanded, "Where is Nonie?" Implicit in that question was, "And who are you?" Those two questions, spoken and implied, brought a threatening reprimand from the stranger gripping my hand. This is my first memory of my mother.

Over the years, though fearing to ask, I persisted in trying to find Nonie. Sometimes it was suggested that I had imagined Nonie, made her up out of thin air. Other times I was promised an answer, "When you're old enough." As a grown woman, I asked my mother about Nonie and she told me that Nonie had been our maid. (Here I should mention that my mother frequently constructs her own truth.) I refuted with, "Nonsense! We weren't well off enough to have had a maid." It was then that I resigned myself to never knowing who Nonie was.

The last time I remember Nonie, she was holding me in her lap while sitting in her rocker on the front porch one summer afternoon. An old neighbor man approached, asking, "Where did you get that white kid?"

I sat up abruptly, looking around for the white kid. Nonie threw her head back in laughter, "Baby, you can be black if you want to be." It had never occurred to me that Nonie and I were different in any way.

So, wherever you are Nonie, thank you for the memories. Over my long life, taking sanctuary in the memory of your love has given me strength, courage, a sense of self, and...most of all... a capacity for boundless love...just like you!