I just realised that I have never shared any photos of one of my favorite places in the world. Fortunately, it happens to be right out my back door. 
During the scorching heat this summer has brought, this is an oasis of welcome shade.
Years ago when we bought this house it had a 10' X 12' cracked and heaved slab of cement for a back patio. This started as a summer project by my husband (with design assistance from my Father) and has been built upon over the years.
We spend a lot of time out here in the evenings. So quiet and peaceful.
Close by is the play house, swing set and sandbox that was built for our younger daughter, which is now a "Fort" for the grandson.
And of course, my faithful companion, the family dog, Odyssey.
what a lovely, peaceful looking area Ingrid. your hostas look healthy!
ReplyDeleteIt certainly does look like an oasis especially in this heat! Love the bricks your hubby and dad worked on.
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous piece of paradise, looks wonderful. Tracy x
ReplyDeleteAgreed - a lovely spot - Odyssey makes it very special in my book.
ReplyDeleteYes, Pattie she does indeed. Wouldn't be complete without her!
ReplyDeleteSo glad to have finally found your blog! I've been a big fan since seeing your work in 1,000 Artist Journal Pages.
ReplyDelete-Julianne
http://creativechronicle.wordpress.com/
It looks so calm. How long did it take to establish? Im dreaming of something like this myself but I can't decide to start from scratch or invest in older plant specimens to get quicker results. X
ReplyDeleteThe first year the playhouse was built. 2nd year the patio pavers went in (including building up the foundation of it by almost 2 feet), 3rd year the elevated surrounding flower wall and the 4th year, the lattice work panels at both ends of the patio were constructed. In between there the patio furniture was built, altered (an old bench was converted into a chair, and old wood on some pieces was replaced)and painted. The large tree was always there, in fact the patio was designed around it. In the 5th year, not shown, but down a few steps and around the corner is an 18" retaining wall flower bed along the path to the gate.
ReplyDeleteVery zen...I hope you get out there as much as possible!
ReplyDeletelOOKS WONDERFUL! I especially love all the white impatients and the varigated foliage, really works well together! A living legacy to Dad'samazing design skills and Bob's hard work!
ReplyDeleteI could spend hours on your blog and love your special places. Darling doggie.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful oasis Ingrid!! I can see you sitting out there with a sketch pad and your amazingly creative mind creating your gorgeous pages!
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