Orange Blossom Special

Technically, they aren't orange blossoms.  

Here on the Gulf Coast, we have Satsuma trees and these are in fact, Satsuma blossoms.  They smell so incredibly sweet, it's almost too much to take.  I stuck this branch in some water and placed the blooms in a large open area, and they've been giving off a strong, sweet smell ever since!

With teenagers in the house, "sweet" is often a foreign scent around here. 

Here are some more blossoms still on the tree after a rain storm.  

Extra points for spotting the hidden beagle in the photo.

This is the"Old Orange Blossom"silver pattern.  Beverly Bremer Silver Shop in Atlanta is one of my favorite stores in the entire world, and she carries the hard to find pattern by Alvin there.

Here is one of the silver pieces made into a ring. 

And next Autumn, this is what the Satsuma blossoms will become. 

Except for the ones I picked.  

We have so many Satsumas around here, it was okay to sacrifice a few for a bouquet.

This story and other great ideas can be viewed at Coastal Charm, Cedar Hill Ranch, From My Front Porch To Yours,  Kathe With an E ,  Knick of Time Interiors , Savvy Southern Style, Adorned From Above,  A Southern Daydreamer, Primp Junktion , Funny Postpartum Lady, French Country Cottage , The Charm of Home, Mockingbird Hill Cottage, Common Ground and Cozy Little House.