Over the weekend I wandered into the local coffee shop and heard one of the staff say she’s ready for fall. In my mind, I immediately responded “No, I’m not ready to let go of summer!” I love fall, but I love summer even more. This time of year is always bittersweet for me to…
August is one of my favorite months of the year – second to the month of June when I get to do most of my planting around the yard. In addition to vegetable and flower gardening, I greatly enjoy water gardening. In fact, my backyard pond is my favorite spot in the yard because it…
Dining al fresco is something I love doing during the summer months. Whenever hubby and I make a lunch or dinner reservation at a local restaurant, we always try to get a table on the patio. Dining outside at home is also pleasurable – especially if you have a shady spot. Here’s some outdoor dining…
Yesterday I visited our local nursery and garden center and it got me thinking about ways to improve my outdoor spaces, which is something I’m always pondering. This in turn inspired me to share this sweet little Alabama courtyard deck and she shed photographed by Kayla Stark. Photo by Kayla Stark The focal point…
Is there anything more wonderful in a home than a screened porch? You can be outside without fighting off bugs. Breezes blow and birds are chirping, all while you sip some iced tea or lemonade. Take a moment to enjoy today’s collection of pretty porches. Photo by MPR Architecture Porches can provide a lot…
I debated about sharing this post on my blog since it talks about an uncomfortable topic – the end of life and choosing your final resting place. After giving it some thought, I decided my recent experience on the topic might be helpful to others. If you’re like me, you don’t like to think about…
When September rolls around I know that this could be the last month of fully enjoying my koi pond. The fish continue to be active, the waterlilies are still in bloom, and plants around the pond are fully grown (and looking a little messy if I’m being honest). Days by the pond are always moments…
Who can resist a garden swing on a gorgeous summer day? I know I can’t. Swinging under a big shady tree is a great way to cool off, and I’ll bet you’ve got the perfect spot in your yard to enjoy this simple pleasure. Here’s a few outdoor swing ideas that are perfect for adults…
Three years ago we had our garden pond installed in the backyard. After adding it, the plan was to incorporate a deck, a new privacy fence, a gravel patio for a dining area, and another patio just outside the back door. We’ve managed to get all those ideas implemented over the years except for the…
Is there any piece of outdoor furniture that says “summer” more than quintessential Adirondack chairs? Seeing one reminds me of lazy days on the beach, or laid back evenings gathered around a toasty fire. I instantly think “vacation” when I see a photo of one. Hopefully these examples will do the same for you. (This…
Hello friends! Are you ready for some pretty amazing inspiration today? There seems to be a never-ending supply of great ideas on the internet, whether you’re looking to spruce up your home, add new plants to your garden, whip up a new recipe, or dream of a new place to travel. Speaking of travel, hubby…
Now is the time to start thinking about your open-air living areas and how to spruce them up for summer living. Today I’m featuring a variety of outdoor deck ideas to get your creative juices flowing. If you plan now, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your outdoor living spaces when warm weather fully kicks…
We’re havin’ a heat wave here in the Chicago area. Our temps went from hovering around zero degrees to a balmy 40 degrees almost overnight! In honor of our weather improvement, I’m featuring a backyard patio lounge by DeGoey Designs that’s perfect for entertaining a small group or just hanging out with your significant other….
Today is a special day because I’m sharing Shaquille O’Neill’s pond and waterfall which is beyond amazing! Also exciting is the fact that the company I work for is the pond builder who installed Shaq’s gorgeous water feature at his Georgia home. (All photos are courtesy of Aquascape, Inc.) Greg Wittstock, my boss and…
Some of my extroverted friends and family members are starting to go a little stir crazy with shelter-in-place orders. They want to take their kids to the park, but the parks are closed. Luckily the weather is warming up and outdoor dining seems like a good solution if you’re suffering from cabin fever. (This post…
I’m on a fire theme this week! Thursday I featured some cool fire pits and today I’m sharing nine gorgeous outdoor fireplace ideas! There’s a reason for my recent attraction to outdoor fire. I’m not a fan of winter but I have an idea that might help me warm up to it a bit. Photo…
