The Art of Collaborating With Nature

The Art of Collaborating With Nature

August 20, 2016

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?

How do you relax?

August 16, 2016

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

Red is Better

August 9, 2016

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

Water Lilies-Jewels of the Pond

August 6, 2016

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

Sunny One So True

August 2, 2016

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

The Evolving Garden Layout

July 30, 2016

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

Naturally Refreshing

July 25, 2016

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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The Sparkly Tropical Hibiscus

The Sparkly Tropical Hibiscus

July 23, 2016

Today, I’m working on designs with my tropical hibiscus flowers and considering this motif for a scarf. ( Tropical- as in NOT winter hardy. Need to find them a winter home inside my house. No wonder they’re knocking themselves out with flowers this summer.) Much to be considered and test printed…so stay tuned. Related Images:
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Summer Dew All Over

Summer Dew All Over

July 19, 2016

Summer is in full swing. With alternating downpour and incredibly hot sun, it feels like the tropics. Doesn’t it? I continue to struggle around the yard to cover gardens with hemlock mulch- the weeds are threatening to take over again so we’re covering as many as we can with a thick layer before the next rain. Related Images:
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