Illuminating ideas

I love these mesquite "stalks". I've had them for some time now. They are firmly planted into some quick setting concrete and then 'planted' into the planter box. In our previous home, they filled a corner inside and had either regular green foliage or fir branch foliage on them depending on the season. This home has no such spot, so I re-purposed them! Wrapped them in white Christmas lights and am letting the ivy runners grow up the stalks. It's such a nice way of bridging the indoors and the outdoors and gives a lot of festive lighting when we entertain outdoors.


I fell in love with these Mexican stars when first I saw them! In Santa Fe and at 1/4 the cost of the ones I'd found on line.


My dear, sweet, loving husband took the time to wire the lights for me. The cages open to make it easy to add a bulb and appropriate hardware. Ever in Santa Fe? Visit Guadalupano Imports, 111 East Water Street (just down from Cafe Pasqual's), or call (505)984-8177. He doesn't have a website - bummer for all y'all. But let me know and I'll pick some up...no problem.


See how it illuminates the corner with the birdbath? I love that it's a bit brighter than the colored Christmas lights dear, sweet, accommodating husband put up last year. Oh - but we are changing from 40 watt bulbs to 25's. Can't overpower those Christmas lights now can we!


Even Mr Ironman, the lizard is inching closer to see what the bright light could possibly be. One thing we learned in the process - no white bulbs, make sure you choose the clear bulbs! If you use white bulbs, all you see is a white round thing in the middle of the star - not quite the effect you want.

One last close up.. I love how intricate the metal is cut out!


Three stars up, I have 4 more to go. Two of which have a designated spot. The other two will be fashioned with tea lights and be placed along the back fence. This will give the yard more depth.

I've had this clay "bell" shape for years. It hung at our cabin over the dining room table for years. Now, it has a special place over the potting table turned serving bar.

See how much light it puts out. Perfect direct light over food.

We are still looking for some solar lights for the lower level (near the ground) for our yard. I have yet to find any that I would recommend. Anyone have some that work well, and are not tiny fireflies in the night? Just leave a post here - and thanks - I love your comments. Next week, I'll share with you some lower level lighting, stay tuned!

I'm linking this post up to Beneath Naps on the Porch. Be sure to check her page out for more ideas...