Lemons & Minks

Lemon Trees, Mink Coats, and the Things We Do to Keep Them Happy!

Lemon trees, safely tucked inside and away from the frost, but still waiting for their permanent winter home! When Tim and I dragged these two beauties indoors, with him grumbling through the entire process, we placed them just inside the door, where they still sit today. Apparently, their temporary accommodations have become a little more permanent than either of us anticipated!

Both trees are flourishing under my care. Those once-sparse branches, dotted with several brown leaves, have filled in with fresh, bright green growth, and both trees are looking healthier than ever. I'd say they're pretty happy with their winter relocation! Now, the big question is where on earth we're going to put them. Between the lemon trees and my hibiscus, the plants are slowly taking over the house. At this rate, we'll soon be living in our very own indoor jungle...but a beautiful one so who's complaining? 

Imagine how wonderful it will be in the years to come when we see those bright yellow lemons finally appear! There's something so satisfying about nurturing something, watching it thrive, and knowing that all the effort might eventually reward you with a little homegrown sunshine. Some things are absolutely worth the effort, the patience, and the wait!

Speaking of effort, I've been doing a little research on how to properly store my beautiful new mink coat. Who knew these things were supposed to be refrigerated? Well, not literally in the same refrigerator where I keep the leftovers, but apparently, fur coats need to be stored in a cool, dark environment to protect them from heat, humidity, and damage. And there are actual cold-storage vaults specifically for fur coats! It's recommended that they're stored professionally from April through November. Who knew owning a mink coat came with its own set of seasonal responsibilities?

I'm not entirely sure I'll be following every rule in the fur-storage handbook, and I'm certainly not rushing out to pay for a fancy cold-storage vault. But I may invest in a proper, breathable fur-storage bag for the closet. After all, the least I can do is give this beauty a little special treatment. She's earned it!

Now I'm wondering when the weather will finally be cold enough for me to take her out for her proper public debut. And yes, for some reason, I've decided this coat is a she. Don't ask me why! She simply has a personality all her own: sophisticated, elegant, and timeless. I can already picture us making quite an entrance together. Of course, there's a fine line between looking glamorous and looking like I'm headed to a vintage Hollywood premiere, but honestly, I'm perfectly happy to lean into the glamour!

I will say, though, I'm a little perplexed by people who frown upon wearing fur while happily slipping their feet into leather shoes or carrying leather handbags. I'm not looking to start a debate, but I do find the contradiction interesting. Everyone has their own opinions... isn't that what makes the world go round?

So, for now, my lemon trees are warm and cozy for the winter, my hibiscus is settling in, and my new coat is waiting patiently for her moment in the spotlight. Between keeping plants alive and figuring out how to care for a vintage treasure, I'm certainly keeping myself entertained.

Maybe that's part of the fun of life: finding little things to nurture, treasures to appreciate, and reasons to look forward to what's coming next. The lemons may take their sweet time, and the coat may have to wait for the perfect chilly day, but good things are worth waiting for. In the meantime, we'll all be keeping warm, staying cozy, and making the most of the season ahead!

"The day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit.” ~Fabienne Fredrickson