The Gift of Softscape

rhododendron

What a nice weekend; three times, people stopped by my house to give me softscape. How often does that happen? I spent most of the weekend working in my yard. I had an outdoor workspace set up out there, including my laptop. Whenever I felt like taking a break from spring yard work I switched gears and worked on my website. Outside. I had a little fire going and I’ll tell you what; life was already good. Read more . . .

Spring Spray Painting

Gate at Stepping Stone Path

In the spring, I usually have numerous pieces of small to mid-size hardscape set aside for spray painting. I like the look of black metal in my yard. I’ve got bits of it artfully arranged all around my property. But some of the black metal has become rusty. In addition, I’ve collected a few metal objects over the fall & winter that I’d like to display, but they’re not black. Well, they’re not black yet. Read more . . .

Ahhh, Spring!

Spring Finch

It’s sunny & 60°, I’m in my yard, and my outdoor muse has awakened. There’s a light breeze, & my wind chimes accompany the birds in their ode to spring. I watch the birds all winter from the window in front of my desk. Which gives me just a taste. But Spring! I’m out here with the birds and the sun, the breeze and the sounds of the neighborhood. My bulbs are awakening, along with the rest of the natural world.  Read more . . .

All About Rakes

Leaf-Rake-4

There are several different types of rakes, each with a specific function. You want to use the right rake for the job at hand. Not only will working with the right rake be more efficient and effective, but your task will be easier and more enjoyable as well. The two main things you’ll probably use a rake for is to collect, move or loosen things like leaves or yard debris, or to grade or level ground material.  Read more . . .

A Fleeting Glimpse of Spring

Crocus-Snow

The robin may be the official harbinger of spring, but for me, the crocus announces the new season. When my first crocuses appear, my outdoor muse awakens. I look forward to those crocuses all winter long. This past weekend, that first crocus poked up from its bed. That one tiny yellow flower inspired me to spend more time outdoors than I had planned, given the chill that was still in the air. Read more . . .