Miscellaneous in March

Spring is time of re-birth and beginnings. In Florida, it's a time to watch closely the comings and goings of the Mockingbird. They'll often build nests within shrubs. Be careful not to prune branches or trim hedges without first looking for nests. 

I discovered this nest, while walking to my front door. The small shrub is in a bed right off the front porch. As I unknowingly approached, a mommy or daddy Mockingbird flew at me from within its branches. They're fiercely protective birds. Unfortunately for this mommy and daddy, it drew my attention to the nest. I say unfortunately only because I'm a very nosy neighbor! I never, never, never touch, but I am a bit of a lookie loo! 

I enjoyed watching a nest of eggs two years ago hatch into four adorable baby Mockingbirds. I can't want till these hatch and watch them grow. 

Mockingbird nest hidden in the branches of a small shrub.

Mockingbird nest with four eggs.

Mommy or Daddy Mockingbird keeping a close eye on my every move!

(c) Folding the Fitted Sheets 2017

Housekeeper's Alphabet

APPLES -- Keep in dry place, as cool as possible without freezing.
BROOMS -- Hang in the cellar-way to keep soft and pliant.
CRANBERRIES -- Keep under water, in cellar; change water monthly.
DISH of hot water set in oven prevents cakes, etc. from scorching.
ECONOMIZE time, health, and means, and you will never beg.
FLOUR -- Keep cool, dry, and securely covered.
GLASS -- Clean with a quart of water mixed with table-spoon of ammonia.
HERBS -- Gather when beginning to blossom; keep in paper sacks.
INK STAINS -- Wet with spirits turpentine; after three hours, rub well.
JARS -- To prevent, coax husband to buy our Cook-Book.
KEEP an account of all supplies, with cost and date when purchased.
LOVE lightens labor.
MONEY -- Count carefully when you receive change.
NUTMEGS -- Prick with a pin, and if good, oil will run out.
ORANGE and Lemon Peel -- Dry, pound, and keep in corked bottles.
PARSNIPS -- Keep in ground until spring.
QUICKSILVER and white of an egg destroys bedbugs.
RICE -- Select large, with a clear, fresh look; old rice may have insects.
SUGAR -- For general family use, the granulated is best.
TEA -- Equal parts of Japan and green are as good as English breakfast.
USE a cement made of ashes, salt, and water for cracks in stove.
VARIETY is the best culinary spice.
WATCH your back yard for dirt and bones.
XANTIPPE was a scold. Don't imitate her.
YOUTH is best preserved by a cheerful temper.
ZINC-LINED sinks are better than wooden ones.
& regulate the clock by your husband's watch, and in all apportionment of time remember the Giver.

Source: Practical Housekeeping: A Careful Compilation, Estelle Woods Wilcox and Bertha Clow, 1883