First Things First

Christmas music on my favorite radio station 24/7, white twinkle lights appearing in yards around me, and the calendar is filling up….and not a twinkle light, shiny ornament, or fluffy bow in sight at my house….sigh. BUT

this year I was asked to be on my church’s flower committee. Now, for me, that ranked right under being asked to take a presidential cabinet position! This is such a talented group of ladies who are master gardeners and flower show judges. I have learned so much from them.

I spent part of Saturday getting the church ready for the first Sunday in Advent. In a couple of weeks a bank of poinsettias will take the place of the fresh flower arrangement.

This year we added swags to the pews for the first time.

The balcony was draped with garlands, bow, and a wreath.

The advent candles were arranged with faux greenery and berries.

Every window was adorned with a hurricane globe, candle, and greenery. These will be lit at the candlelight service on Christmas Eve.

And finally, the arrangement was made.

All white with fresh greenery and holly. These ladies have been teaching me the art of using floral oasis and I thought I’d pass them along to you. Oasis makes it much easier to put your flowers where you want them and KEEP them there. In addition, the water will help preserve the fresh cut flowers.

Oasis can be bought at lots of places—Hobby Lobby, Dollar Tree, Michael’s, Walmart.

1. Use a knife to cut your oasis to fit the container. Sometimes it may take more than one piece and some creative cutting. Be sure that you leave the oasis one inch higher than the depth of the container.

2. Place the oasis in a sink or bucket of fresh cool water with the small holes facing up. These hole are already there for you. Don’t weight it down or leave it under running water.

3. Let the oasis soak for about 10 minutes. Remove it from the water and allow it to drain for just a minute or two.

4. Now you are ready to place the saturated oasis in the floral container. At this point it will be fairly soft and pliable.

5. Secure with floral tape if desired.

Now, most of you may already know all this. I did not so I am passing it along just in case! I am joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday. Just click on her button on my sidebar for transportation!

I’m so glad to be back after a short hiatus! I missed you more than you can imagine. I hope you’ll be back…I’ve been cooking and have lots to share! Thanks for stopping by… leave me a note :) ~~Susan