Cry Uncle I had the pleasure to be asked to be a chaperone for a Sweet 16 Party last weekend, and because no one has ever trusted me with that kind of responsibility I immediately said yes.
Make your MARkThis week I was reading my local paper and fell upon an article—memories of downtown’s Main Street, circa 1960. This got my attention as it also included a fabulous map detailing the stores that lined our Main Street back then, dominated by “mom & pop” stores.
Sight seeing in the darkRecently I was hired to be a guest speaker in Farmington, Connecticut, to talk about my signature style of creating casual luxury. I was joined by Lisa, my candle line business partner, and we were off to meet the ladies and enjoy a meal with them; my presentation was for after dinner. We left Westport around 5:00pm and as the sun set I noticed how difficult it was getting for me to read the street signs. Recently I also noticed I was having some difficulties reading the text on my iPhone. “Oh no!” I yell to Lisa, “It’s happening!” “What?” she replied.
Estate RepresentativeThis week I had the honor to be top billing for and featured speaker at the Connecticut Flower and Garden Show in Hartford, Connecticut. The Convention Center was transformed into a breathtaking event for floral and garden enthusiasts, and with over 250 booths overflowing with fresh flowers, plants, herbs, bulbs, seeds and garden accessories this was my version of the gardening super bowl, and with over 45,000 square feet of gardens, plants and flowers it was also like a dress rehearsal for spring.
I love you I do Every February across the country, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. That said, with all this love in the air my heart skips a beat just thinking about just how lucky I am to have both people that I love and ones who love me back.
Life is worth “Lifting"With the Winter Olympic games just around the corner it’s hard not to reminisce about my former skating career. Just like millions of Americans, I too, have been glued to the television watching my fellow skaters compete to capture a place on the 2010 Olympic Team in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Flower PowerIt’s cold outside and thank goodness I have my Violet to cuddle up and sit on my lap to keep me warm. She’s better than a blanket, in fact right now while working on the computer writing this blog she is fast asleep on my lap thisclose to me at all times, offering me some extra heat and well-deserved schnauzer love.
California Dreamin’ My first trip to the Napa Valley area will forever be one to cherish. My dear friend Jason was celebrating his 50th birthday and what better way for a wine aficionado to celebrate than to visit the wineries. That said, along the way I met some wonderful, knowledgeable people that help made this a memorable experience of a lifetime.
Dating Hotline Over the years I’ve had the pleasure of making friends with lots of lovely single women, many of whom have been married once or twice. Sooner or later their desire to be with a man quickly became the “hot topic” of many of our conversations. Before I knew it I was the “how to find a man” resource for other women as well. I’ve helped them all from what not to wear to what not to do or say.
MARsolutionNew Year's Eve has always been a time for us to reflect upon the past and look to the future. (All while dressed in our best from head to toe—as my friend Lori’s shoes clearly demonstrate!) A new year brings new opportunities, new challenges and most importantly changes. Not as in changing our mind set to write 2010 rather than 2009, deeper than that.
A Family of Friends This is the best time of year, when good friends visit and Uncle Marsley’s chores increase. Not having any children of my own—unless you count Miss Violet—I’m lucky to be referred to as an “uncle” by my friends’ kids even though my siblings have no children. And at this rate, will never.
Elf-full HolidayThe holidays are a wonderful time to enjoy friends and family and to celebrate the good cheer, good times and good will. This past week I ventured into the city to meet up with a group of friends for the yearly tradition of the annual Christmas walk and dinner. My friend Don is the one who religiously plans this yearly festival—he’s truly the spirit of Christmas. In fact, he’s the most into-Christmas person I know, so much so that he refers to himself as “Elf” during the holidays. So this year I wanted to step up the festivities so I brought one of my elves to help celebrate the season and it got everyone’s attention. We called him “Elfie” and he was a big hit.
Star-struck by StarbuckLast Wednesday my executive producer notified me that I would be interviewing JoJo Starbuck on Friday at the Rockefeller Center skating rink in New York City. Many of you will remember JoJo with her partner Kenneth Shelley, as a three-time United States pair skating champion (1970-1972) and two-time Olympian (1968 and 1972). Imagine how happy I was—thinking to myself “Me, Mar Jennings, former regional and sectional figure skating champion and, yes, once a pair skater on the ice, skating with and interviewing JoJo Starbuck!”
A “Blue” ChristmasWow December is here and today I realize Violet’s birthday is on the12th, and she will celebrate her first birthday. She’s a big girl now, fully trained, filled with personally and a collection of fabulous sweaters and rhinestone necklaces. Where has the time gone? It seems as if it was only yesterday when I brought the little bundle of joy home, one that would heal my heart and give me unconditional love and kisses.
Lobster T(h)anksThanksgiving is over and we had many things to be thankful for this year: a successful career, good health, love, and friends and family. Thanksgiving for me has many family memories, some good and some bad. For example, one year my father did a nose-dive right into the turkey as he prepared to carve it. We laughed and laughed, as Mother (Aurora) took him off to bed and told the story how “he had been up since 5am cooking the 25 lbs turkey.” Later we learned he had been “celebrating” since 5am, too.
Step by stepA busy time of year for me: filming, designing and working on new holiday and Spring articles. Truth be told, I love this time of year, and on Tuesday I did a demo/lecture on how to make your own holiday/winter door wreath. I demonstrated to the Saqua Garden Club, along with two of the members who helped me, how to do the same at home. We had a blast, as I can talk, walk and do a demo all at the same time.
Ho ho ho already?Yes, its true, the holiday season has officially begun here at Rosebrook Gardens, and now that I’m ready I somehow feel as if I’m forgetting something. Perhaps it’s because Halloween was not even over when the boxes were removed from the attic and Violet got her first glimpse what I’d be adding designing and creating. A lot to wonder at! That said, the garlands have been hung, the Elves have been released and the holiday glitz has been displayed throughout the house.
The Giving of TreesAs I look into my garden I mentally prepare for the transformation that will soon take place. I enjoy my garden’s lingering blooms knowing that in the spring there will be a rebirth. Rosebrook Gardens is all about planning for each season and carefully selecting plants and shrubs that will compliment each other both visually and functionally. Now I can begin fall relaxed, knowing that the garden will be at rest and so will I.
Chicken Fried SchnauzerAs I entered my office today preparing to write my blog, my precious little schnauzer followed me into the room and immediately jumped onto my lap, licking my face and nibbling my nose. As if she doesn’t get enough cuddling and loving by the many people who come and take her away for long drives, shopping trips and walks in the park. It’s only when they return that I’m asked, “Oh Mar, how are you doing today?”
Miss Violet a country girl?Recently my dear friend and former Westport neighbor Barbara asked if I was available to join her on a wonderful mini vacation to Vermont. As a superb destination for country drives, mountain trails and walks both Violet and I were delighted to check our schedule (yes she too has a schedule) and regrettably I was booked for some appearances and unable to say yes. Before I was even done whispering my regrets “no” the question came—the one that any proud Daddy would fear: “
A cause, a chef and meAnother amazing week as I hosted the “Come+Together” culinary event at Macy’s yesterday in Farmington, Connecticut. I was honored and delighted to help support this important cause.
Princess Leia Goes to Mar’sWell actually, I went to her.
To my surprise yesterday my CFO, Paul Mitchell coordinated two 2nd row center seats to the Carrie Fisher Broadway show Wishful Drinking in New York City at Studio 54. I was more than delighted to head back to the city for a night out as I’ve always enjoyed her work and was looking forward to seeing her. But wait, this gets even better.
A permanent stain c1995What an exciting week as I hosted houseguests, balanced work and supervised my house painters. Rosebrook Gardens is getting a paint job after 14 years and everyone is amazed that it’s lasted that long. Here’s my secret…it’s stain, not paint.
A star is bornThis title of course will make you think of the 1954 classic movie with Judy Garland and James Mason, or perhaps the somewhat less-stellar 1976 version with Barbara Streisand. Maybe some of you see the word “star” and think of those Hollywood Boulevard “Walk of Fame” stars that pay tribute to over 2000 artists who have made significant contributions to film, radio, television, theatre and the recording industries?
Light my fire.This week was an exciting week as The Botanical Collection proudly announced the launch of the Mar Jennings Casual Luxury Home Candle Line. On Wednesday, I introduced the line on the Martha Stewart Radio show and in less than 20 minutes we were sold out.
Pick a ColorIt’s been years since I picked up a paint brush and painted my home as over the years I’ve had the luxury to have trusted painters who take excellent direction and are as meticulous as I am when I did paint for myself. But last Friday was different as I woke up wanting to do something creative, thus the paintbrush found its way back into my life.
You are women, hear “MAR” roarWorking from my home offices allows me great flexibility to tend to my business, gardens and of course my miniature schnauzer Violet as well. From my office each window frames views that make me feel like there are paintings placed there for my enjoyment.
I woof you so much it hurtsFor many of us loving a pet comes with many rewards but understanding our pets can be sometimes challenging—unless you have a dog like my Violet Von Schhnorkenheimer. This now-12lbs bundle of joy has no issues communicating to me or anyone else for that matter.
My “Hipster” FriendAs a former regional and sectional figure skating champion I know a little something about commitment and drive; after all I have been skating my whole life. Truth be told, I’ve met thousands of people over the years who love/adore the sport and have dreamed of doing the Hamill camel, the axel and other graceful moves that only a figure skater can do. I used to take for granted being able to do them myself, but I’ve learned that for others this ability would be a dream come true.
Julia Child—Je T’aime! (I love you!)My love for Julia Child began in the 70’s when I was only a child and I used her cookbook as a booster seat at the dinner table. I was not cooking then, but who knew that this 684-plus page book would go from my butt to my head in less than 30 years. Mastering the Art of French Cooking; by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle and Simone Beck is forever a valuable resource and staple to have in the kitchen.
A MARcation getaway It was time for me to take a well deserved vacation so I decided to head off like so many other New Yorkers to Fire Island for an extended long weekend. With its pristine sand dune beaches and magical scenery, Fire Island takes my breath away each and every time I visit. The perfect place to read, relax and visit some friends, and with no cars on the island one never has to worry about other people drinking and driving.
My state does not support being green?This summer I began to think about how I could change my behavior and make better choices to protect our most precious natural resource, Mother Earth. For me, it was making a commitment to change. As an avid gardener, I believe that I already have a great start—but the question for all of us is “What more can we do?”
Spellbound by a DogThere is nothing like a hometown crowd and I was fortunate to have two such occasions this week. Early in the week, I spoke at a local Rotary Club luncheon about starting my own business and getting paid while finding your passion.
Violet Behind Bars on MarsFinally weather that we can enjoy…..and I have. I took my Vespa all the way to my favorite farm stand in Easton and now daily to the gym. I feel really about the all the gas and money I’m saving while working on my tan. For me, I need all the help I can get.
Farmer’s Market fiascoIt’s Friday and tomorrow is the 4th of July. Where has the year gone? With only five more months till December I feel 2009 has been zooming by. This 4th of July weekend I will fill my home with friends and spend some much needed time at the beach reading and taking in the New England shoreline beauty. That said, Thursday was my one-day to prepare the house and get all my shopping done.
New York is where I rather be. I’m seriously considering trading my car in for an ark. It’s hard to get motivated with the continuous rain here in Connecticut—frustrating because every time I went to New York this week I had the best weather. So while I was here in Westport I needed some fabulous fun rain activities to get me out of the depressing funk.
Rain, rain go away.The rain streak broke long enough—and just in time for—my Saturday tag sale, and the results were nothing less than amazing as 20-30 people arrived early to be first in line to get in on the deals. A garage sale, yard sale or tag sale may be all the same but but a “Mar” sale is unlike any you will ever experience.
Everything’s coming up roses, literally.Did you know that June is National Rose Month in the United States? Here at Rosebrook it is obvious from the moment you enter the property as the aroma of the collection of roses lifts your spirit and take you to a far away place. You’re in the downtown Westport area, but for most this is an oasis that could very well be in the English countryside. This is my home and my roses greet you proudly as do I.
“Out with the old, in with the old” designThis week Rosebrook Gardens was somewhat of a construction zone as I began some dramatic exterior home improvements. I began with realizing I needed to finally replace my front balcony and back railing, but once I started my tally of tasks I found it hard not do those other little things that have been annoying me.
A garden tour to die for. I hope you had a restful and wonderful long Memorial Day weekend and enjoyed the pleasure of having a short week. This year, I celebrated the holiday at home with friends, tending to my garden and training my now 24-week-old schnauzer. You might think that’s not much fun, but in spite of all the invitations for barbecues, I chose to pass and simply unwind at Rosebrook Gardens.
Lush, gorgeous and fabulous.The garden is exploding with color and blooms just ready to burst. The poppies, the peonies and the lilacs are just an example of the world of delight that takes place in life on Mar’s.
My Schnauzer-- will work for food.Just last Friday I had the pleasure to be booked at the Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington, Connecticut for a lecture and PowerPoint presentation about how I created a four-season garden. I revealed over a hundred new photographs that have never been seen or published.
These boots are made for gardening!A new trend in home and garden living is to define living spaces outside. Known as "outdoor rooms", these spaces range from the simple and obvious (think of your deck or patio) to the ornate and elaborate. My book, Life On Mar’s A Four Season Garden will awakens all your senses to make your garden functional, beautiful and attainable.
Penthouse please. Welcome back to my blog! Last Saturday I returned back to New York to visit with my dear friend Lisa, recovering from surgery in style as she is lucky enough to have a friend who lives at the St. Regis. Violet joined me.
Shhhhhh-- Happy Birthday to me. A full week traveling between Connecticut and New York, business and pleasure. But first I began with a photo session with the very talented Tom Lialios of Sono Creative Media in Norwalk, CT. Four wardrobe changes later--and about 300 photos to consider--we finished with some of the best press shots that have ever been taken of me/us. It could be that the schnauzer was so into it that it was scary.
Life On Mar's via the beach This week while my friend Mary was on vacation living the good life in Hawaii I offered to take care of her dog Elizabeth until she returned this Monday. If you read my blog last week you might remember that Mary has a fabulous place on the beach in Fairfield, Connecticut, and with the blast we had when we were together last week I decided to offer to take care of Elizabeth rather than have Mary send her away to a local kennel. I would spend my nights there and pop in all day as needed to keep her happy and feeling at home.
Beached Schnauzer Last Sunday here in Connecticut the weather was perfect for taking advantage of my friend Mary’s private beach. Barbara and I both agreed that this would make for the perfect opportunity to introduce Violet to the beach. We would venture out for an afternoon delight, meeting up with Mary and her dog Elizabeth Taylor. We took a football--yes, you read that right--some chairs, a bottle of rosé, and planted ourselves right in the middle of what was a quiet day at the beach. The wind was blowing and the sun felt warm on our skin –isn't it always great to be out on the beach with some friends, a glass of wine, and a comfortable beach chair?
Anyone speak BARK? A full week with appearances and lectures throughout Connecticut and Miss Violet was right there next to me. Now 16 weeks old and still growing, Violet is using her voice quite a bit these days and I’m referring to it as the "terrible twos." She has officially earned her nickname as “barkenheimer.” "Bark, bark, bark, bark, look at me, I’m here, bark, bark, bark, look at me I’m over here now" and the ever-so-often "bark, bark, bark let me in that bathroom or else!
Schnauzer on the setWell this week was another milestone for Violet as she was able to not only go up the stairs but down as well. A big task for a little girl who just happened to hit 6 lbs just before turning 15 weeks old. I’m a proud daddy as Miss Violet also mastered sitting and standing on her hind legs with little coaching on my part. So cute.
A Makeover for Violet—and a New Look for MeThis week was a big week not just for Violet but for me, too, as we here at Mar Jennings Multimedia prepare for the Fine Living Network to begin filming multiple segments featuring yours truly that will air throughout the year. How exciting right? As their new “Home Expert” I hope this will be just the beginning to many more new and exciting opportunities with them. They are such nice people and so enjoyable to work with.
Lights camera action!Violet was ready for her close-up last Sunday as she made her first live TV debut on ABC’s WTNH, Channel 8, Good Morning CT. She was the perfect co-host, and I’ve never received so many e-mails and comments about a segment and I have only one thing to say: Thank you Violet. We broke record numbers and although it was an early morning "call" she was ready and it turned out to be the perfect way to break her into the business. Our viewers could not get over her size, color and breed and how she "spoke" while being help by Chris Velardi the host.
Night on the town with Miss Violet Just like my Mother and her mother would do when getting ready for a night out, they would pack into the car and have their hair done. Violet now continues the ladies' tradition because rather than calling it a “groomer” I have come to refer to it as time to go to the “Beauty Parlor,” and that’s exactly what it is: a beauty experience—especially when you take your dog to Grooming By Debbie, located in Norwalk, CT.
A Schnauzer Overboard!My life is full of Violet stories as each day brings yet another funny story with Miss Violet. This week she had her vet check-up with the amazing Dr. Timothy Plunket and we were happy to learn that Violet gained a pound in the two weeks since we last visited his office in Fairfield. Everyone there loved her and could not wait to see her again as she popped out of her travel bag to say, “I’m here”!
Ready for the “Violet” Carpet…well, the Oscars.Violet celebrated her 10-week birthday on Friday and she did it with style. With all the movies nominated I needed to do “quick catch-up movie madness” and who better to join me – Violet! That 's right my dog. We ventured out to The Reader, Slum Dog Millionaire, Doubt, and something light: Confessions of a Shopaholic.
A week filled with new experiences. It’s been almost a week with my new baby schnauzer Violet, and today I took advantage of the beautiful weather that we had here in Connecticut to have her discover what Life On Mar’s is all about: the garden. Oh, what kind of gardener would I be if a proper introduction and tour were not part of the overall experience?
Home Sweet HomeLast night I returned from Washington, D.C with my little buddle of love, Violet Von Schhnorkenheimer; she just turned 8 weeks on Friday. She curled up on my lap in the car, and awoke just as I arrived back in Connecticut. My doorway was filled with balloons and a “welcome home” sign that my neighbors Dave and Kate added while I was gone. What a wonderful welcome: touching and celebratory.
I'm ready for the baby!The doggy beds are monogrammed, the water bowls are new, the homemade cookies are baked, new collars have arrived and the toy box is full with playful, squeaky newness. I'm just a proud daddy with so much love bursting inside!
I’m expecting!Did I get your attention? Yes, it’s true. The Jennings household is expanding and soon to include an adorable bundle of love named Violet Von Schnorkenheimer.
Subcribe to the RSS Feed
