Froggy in the Flowers

Well, this is a bit different.

This little guy arrived in with a shipment of foliage plants from Florida. Pat from Ponto's Greenhouses thought he would surprise me with it. Perhaps he imagined I would scream like a girl and run. However, I did neither. Even though I am a girl, I happen to be fond of small creatures.

I've named him Ponto. (Pat seemed to be a dumb name for a tree frog) Ponto the Frog has a new home at The Whistlestop. And if looks to be a bit sleepy that is because he has just gulped down two tiny crickets and now it is nap time.

Ponto is quick to change color to his surroundings and it is quite charming to watch. I was thinking of putting a St Patrick's Day green carnation in his terrarium to see if he was up to the challenge. But he is just a baby... only the size of a kidney bean. Maybe next year.

No two days are ever alike at the shop. But stop in to see Ponto and pick up some springy flowering plants. We have St Patricks Day bouquets as well.

First Sign of Spring

Okay, so it's snowing again and the cold is starting to get depressing. But in the morning, if you listen closely, you will hear the male cardinal singing from a tree top. Or, in my case, from the peak of my roof.

And the days are getting longer. It's great to have daylight at 5:30 when leaving work! Pretty soon the crocus will be popping up through the snow and the Robins will be back.

Springs Brides are popping up as well. We participated in "An Affair to Remember " Bridal Show at the Lodge in Skaneateles. And we met some new vendors that we wanted to share with you.

The Village Candy Shoppe in Manlius (www.VillageCandyShoppe.com) and Woodmark Chocolate of Liverpool. (www.woodmarkchocolate.com) My husband and I had a great time meeting Kathy Chappini at her yummy store that is just brimming with unusual and hard to find chocolate and candy. After tasting Woodmark truffles, I had to call Paul Dederich and compliment him on the taste and quality of his candy. Next time I'm in Liverpool I will be sure to look for his store.

I would urge Brides and chocoholics to give them both a try.

Win Tickets to the Syracuse Symphony

This is a super opportunity!

When you call or stop in for flowers your name will be placed in a drawing for two tickets to The Syracuse Symphony on February 14th. The program will feature all the great romantic classics including Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue, Ravel's Piano Concerto, Diamond's Music for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and Ravel's Bolero.

We will pick a winner at the end of the day on Wednesday February 11.

The perfect Night Out awaits you.

More Beyond The Door

This weekend we will say good bye to Thanksgiving and officially begin the Glitter Season! Kim and Colleen have been busy creating fabulous Gourmet Baskets for delivery this upcoming week.

If you are a fan of our Boxwood Trees, stop in soon for the best selection. Opps, I've got to go and unwrap the first load of poinsettias.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Take me home with you!

The roly poly Santa says "Take me home with you". And there are more Elves and Angels waiting for a visit from you.

The Shop is decorated and looks particularly festive. As we were unpacking boxes and filling shelves, snowflakes started falling. The first stirring of Christmas spirit bubbled forth and before I could stop myself I shouted "Lets listen to Chrismas music!"

Well, that didn't go over as well as I expected with my co-workers. After much rolling of the eyes everyone agreed that it was too early. However, I have the remote....yes, sometimes it is good to be the Boss.

Happy Halloween

We have made some unique and whimical Halloween decorations. Because they are handmade in our store you will not find them at Target or The Christmas Tree Shop. They are well priced and will be a spooktacular addition to your October decorations. Ask about Boris and Natasha. They have a new home but we can't be sure they won't get out! EEEK!

Sahara Roses are Romantic

Robin egg blue hydrangea, mini calla lilies and Sahara Roses in a pale antique peach make a lovely combination for a summery wedding. The misty morning was beautifully captured by Alisha Clarke. www.alishaclarkphotographer.com I just love way the soft light and wispy ribbon

play off the color of the flowers against the gowns. Sweet and simple. I'm saving some shots of the bride for later!