Narcissus Bulb, Part 2

UPDATE. It took months of care and waiting. I was expecting  something very similar to the plant below. Note the beautiful, multiple bloomin' flowers (short flower stalks which spread from a common point is called an UMBEL):

pc: wikipedia

Pictured below is pretty much my plant's best state. Nice-looking sheathed leaves, but what happened to the flowers? A dud, perhaps? Disappointed, but MC Bear makes up for it a little:

most recent pic

Why am I still keeping this pitiful thing?
I do not want to accept defeat. It'll motivate me to have a go at another Narcissus bulb.


Narcissus, Part 1

House of Horror No More

I consider this to be first on my list of the top two most beautiful homes in all of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The Hosts: Met them during one of their many treks South to visit his widowed Mom (a member of our church). Always greeted us with a smile, and told us we'd be welcome to stay at their house if we ever happen to visit Canada. Three of their 6 kids are on their own, so there is now plenty of room for guests.
We were treated to several home-cooked, delicious meals. Our conversations were never boring. Canada currently has open borders to outsiders, and our Christian friends work tirelessly for the benefit of Refugees from around the globe.  

We ended up staying for 2 nights and 3 days. We could have stayed longer if we so desired.  But, an impatient Summer employer was waiting for our son's return to the USA. 

stayed in the BR on the right

daughter slept in this bedroom

The house:
Built in the 1890s. Repairs are needed. Not quite perfect.  For example, the floors squeaked. I could not sneak up on anyone no matter how careful, hahaha.

As in many older homes, there are nice features: large lot, six bedrooms, two bathrooms, basement, large family room, separate dining room, big kitchen, two stair cases (front and back), gables, wrap-around porch, door/window trim, wainscoting, thick walls, wood floors, many windows,claw-foot tub, mysterious nooks and crannies. Very none cookie-cutter.  It felt comfortable for me there; as if I were staying with my familiar, old grandma.

Front Door, interior

front stairway, and view of dining room

 Family Room

pics of beloved family members

Living Room

entry-way cabinet with mirror

downstairs bathroom

back stairs leading to 1st floor kitchen

bath section of 2-room upstairs bathroom

kitty loves her hair!

Front-door, exterior view

So, the kind and hospitable hosts with their large, beautiful house made our stay in Winnipeg quite memorable. The sweet, fat kitty added a nice touch.

BTW, we weren't the only ones who love the house. Our friends have had a couple of strangers knocking at their door to ask permission to use the property for a movie --- a horror/mystery movie! Our sensible friends had enough wisdom to firmly say thanks, but NO thanks!  Who'd want to "entertain"  by causing someone a nightmare for practically forever;  or mar the beautiful memories made at this place?! Nooooooooo way, Jose.





18.8.23.18

Narcissus I await Thee

A Christmas 2016 gift in a tea cup from my generous and clever 92 year old friend to me. Her email to explain:

The thingy that I gave you for Christmas is a flower bulb (much like a tulip bulb). It is a Narcissus. Just add water to activate it. The white stones are to hold it in place.  After a few days, leaves should appear and later still a blossom. When it is done blooming, just throw it away.  It will not rebloom. ..   Enjoy ...   💕 ...  Helen


It's been more than a few days --- it has been MONTHS, and there is still no flower.  Others also received a bulb from her for Christmas, and theirs bloomed weeks ago. What's wrong with mine??!

April 2017

January 6, 2017

January 2, 2017

Illustration

NARCISSUS Plant

Burma or Myanmar

A few of the many  items given or brought back from Myanmar for my friend, Mrs Helen. 
 I  believe the citizens are either in favor of the government, or (highly) suspect and need to be watched.  However, there is a Bible School, which we support; and thank God it's running with no hindrances from the state police or military.  I'm having a hard time locating the pre-mixed tea here.  Any help would be appreciated.

" Love of God"

Blanket

Bags

from Gem dust

Yummy, pre-mixed tea!