Plenty of Green to Go Around

This time of summer, everything is coming up green. And for those of us who crave color, there’s always new ways to add it. Every year, you notice new places, new opportunities to eliminate the color “down times.” And, each year, you get a little farther. Related Images:
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Flower Fantasia

What’s that in the sky? It’s a flower, no, it’s a flower scarf! This week I turned my attention to some new designs using the ever lovely tropical hibiscus. Related Images:
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The Art of Collaborating With Nature

Serenity is something to be strived for. We bought a serenity statue a few years ago in Brimfield MA. Each year we try to get a little farther in making a special place in the garden to secure our own serenity. Our statue sits in the shade of an old Japanese maple. Over time, I’ve noticed that sunlight penetrates the foliage behind the statue pretty consistently all day. So, this year, as part of the front garden development, we built up the hill behind the statue and added flowering bushes planted above and behind. So, now in addition to azaleas
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How do you relax?

Periodically, people ask me this question. Each time I get stumped and fumble for words. Two well known slogans come to mind: “More doing” and “Just do it.” Even basking in the sun is a challenge for me without something to do. When I go to the beach, I’m most happy with a novel under my nose. Then, I relax.  Related Images:
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Red is Better

Sunny days in Connecticut. Last week, we slipped out to the beach at Old Lyme to burn ourselves for the day. We’re still red. It was great. (Do not attempt this at home) Every night my daughter discovers a new remedy for her burn. We used sunscreen! Related Images:
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Water Lilies-Jewels of the Pond

Some consider water lilies the jewels of the pond. Not only beautiful, they also improve the ecosystem they live in. I have NOT planned in a water feature to my new garden. You too, will undoubtedly find this video terribly tempting. Related Images:
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Sunny One So True

August is sunflower season in Litchfield. From green, tightfisted buds to a sunny “letting it all hang out” display after numerous bee visitations. At least one of the new Paola Prints this year will be black and white. This is Sun Zebra, a great addition to any living room. She blends well too. Related Images:
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The Evolving Garden Layout

For months now, I’ve avoided getting down to the business of installing the gravel paths and flower beds. It’s not that I can’t face the hard stuff. It just takes time. And the layout keeps evolving. This was the week to dig into the details of mulch for weed prevention in the emerging layout. Related Images:
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Naturally Refreshing

Green foamy waves, sun and blue. Why is it  that being in the presence of nature is so relaxing? Life was overflowing with summer today. I used to flee to the ocean every year. These days my husband has become a snowbird. He craves the sun when New England winter sets in. Summer outside in New England… not so much. Your garden can offer you respite from the everyday. Related Images:
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