J visited Mississippi State University to give an Artist In Residence program at the request of his good friend, Dr. Jim DelPrince.

The trip began with a welcome to Jim's home, Summer Time. The period home is filled with many treasures of bygone days. The arrangement on the right, while starting to drop it's petals, is in the favorite stage of floral arranging pioneer Constance Spry.

Jim's roomie - Bruce Talbert greeted us at the back door...

While this fun Easter arrangement greets guests in the entry hallway.

A fascinating resurrection image from Currier and Ives hangs in Jim's entry way.

A fun (?) shot of Bruce Talbert. At right, a wall of blooming Azaleas in Jim's neighborhood.

J was able to catch up with his friend Fred Kinder over cocktails and dinner.

Dr. DelPrince supervises a contest for the students - creating an original non-traditional arrangement using a dozen Eufloria roses. The winner appears on the right.

Jenna - one of Dr. DelPrince's student is seen at left during the creative process of her winning entry. At right is the second place finisher - great creative concept!!

J was one of three judges for the competition.

A selection of entries from the competition. Wonderful, inspired ideas for the standard dozen roses. Eufloria provided the most beautiful roses on the planet for the competition.

Delicious J cookies were made by the University bakery for J's presentation.

Emily White and J. Emily is from J's hometown of Fremont Nebraska, and now lives in Mississippi. It was great to visit with her after the performance.

A couple of pieces that J created after the Prom and Homecoming Flowers  part of the presentation. By the way - many thanks go out to the models who showcased the flowers to wear at the presentation.

J  and Miss Lynette, who runs the University Florist along with teaching courses in the Retail Floristry program. A great, great lady.

J and Dr. Del Prince wrap up the evening.

And one last goodbye from Bruce J. Talbert. Buh-bye kitty!!

It's always a great pleasure for J to give an Artist In Residence program at Mississippi State University and this time was no exception. Thanks to everyone for making J and Kel feel so welcome. And special thanks to Jim for opening his home to us and making the time such a fun experience.