"Dreaming of Spring...."

While I do enjoy a cool, brisk day, this weekend's cold weather has me dreaming of Spring.  The fact that I can start to see perennials emerging from the ground just adds to the anticipation. 




Actually, it reminds me of what my outdoor space looked like when I moved in almost five years ago. 

It was pretty sad.

Since this was my first single family home, gardening was something that I had absolutely no experience with.  In fact, I didn't know a .....

Petunia 

from a Pansy.

So, I started small with the help of a friend who graciously shared some of her perennial blooms with me.  We eagerly beautified the yard with the addition of some color and I was hooked. Quite frankly, my original goal was to simply protect my investment.  Flowers are NOT cheap.  But as it turns out, I fell in love with gardening. 

Year 1

Who knew that digging in the dirt could be so therapeutic.  Or that watching a flower flourish under your care could yield such reward.  Needless to say, I'm hooked.

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

(Sorry, I wasn't quite as motivated last Summer/Year 5, but I plan to hit the ground running this summer)

Funny thing is, over the years, I've gotten pretty good at it.

June

October

Even the insects appreciate my efforts.



I love it so much, I've since branched out to produce.

So, if you're bundled up today and dreaming of warmer weather, start thinking about how you'll decorate one of the most important rooms of your home, the outdoor room. 

Here's a great tool to help you get started:

Better Homes and Gardens' Plan a Garden - This online tool allows you to design anything from a patio-side container garden to your whole yard.  Simply use your mouse to "drag-and-drop" more than 150 trees, shrubs, and flowers. Add dozens of structures like buildings, sheds, fences, decks -- even a pond.