If you’ve got one…
September 11, 2019
fly one. If you don’t, get one. Never forget.
1970 photo by Andrea Di Castro
flag photo: gp
The country came together then…
September 11, 2018
so it might be a good idea, to honor those lost that day, for the country to come together now. Just a thought.
9/11 Never forget.
photo: gp
Thank you for your service.
May 28, 2018
Photo: gp
Going Long
July 3, 2017
What better way to kick off the 4th of July than with an extended holiday weekend? Plenty of time for some DIY projects, maybe a local road trip, enjoying some seasonal favorites and simply kicking back. On your mark…get set…where’s that hammock?
From the top:
First things first…get that flag up.
Add in a new plant material and see how it performs the rest of the summer.photo: http://www.highcountrygardens.com/bouteloua-gracilis-blonde-ambition
How much fun could a tree swing be? Photo: https://www.schoolhouse.com/collections/all-new/products/wood-rope-tree-swing
After a bit of work a rewarding lunch near the water could be a good idea.
Cold watermelon and an 80 degree day…perfect.
A bag of marshmallows, a box of sparklers and a yard full of fireflies should finish the holiday off nicely.
photos: gp, except where noted.
Now More Than Ever
May 29, 2017
As we kick-start Summer this Memorial Day, remember those that have been lost in service to the nation. If you have a flag, display it, if you don’t have one…get one and, if the one you have is in disrepair…dispose of it properly and replace it.
photo: gp
Gearing Up
May 30, 2016
The unofficial beginning of Summer is here. First up on this Memorial Day, and most importantly, fly your flag in honor of those lost. Then on to an early start. In my case it was a stop at the nursery for a little inspiration and a bit of immediate gratification until the bigger projects are complete. As long as you’re staying in town, and the weather is finally cooperating, you might as well get to it.
With so much color and texture available in trees and shrubs I can never figure out what all the excitement is about with annuals. Inspiration around every turn and not a geranium or Impatiens in sight.
I’ve never been a fan of Barberry, but this particular variety ( Sunjoy Gold Pillar) has appeal with its upright habit, bright color and tolerance to cold. Boxwood hedge replacement? Could be.
The sculptural quality of these stag horn ferns will be a welcome green addition to the porch. One may stay potted, the other mounted for hanging. Some artichoke thistle also made the cut to fill some vintage concrete saucer planters. Pics to follow once they get going.
A cocktail is definitely in order after a good day of running, hauling and yard work. So, while you’re firing up the grill you might want to sip on my Blueberry Bourbon Cocktail. Light, refreshing and a dose of antioxidants to boot. Grab a glass and muddle 8-10 fresh mint leaves in an ounce of home-made blueberry syrup. Add 2 oz. Bourbon and a handful of ice, give it a quick stir and top it off with a splash of Vernors Original Ginger Soda. You’re welcome.
Photos: gp
Early Holiday…Late Start
May 17, 2015
It seems early this year…the Memorial Day weekend. Particularly when I have yet to knock a dent in my Spring punch list of gardening projects. Really, it’s a “to-do” list as I have no changes planned, only a review to see who had the strength to survive, who lost the fight and a little annual manicure and mulch. Hopefully the extra day will help me put things in good order as we unofficially kick off Summer.
Top to bottom:
Before anything else, honor the fallen by displaying the flag.
It looks like that boxwood hedge could use a crisp edge.
This gift of water hyacinth will grace my interior until they take up Summer residence outdoors.
The varied colors and textures of the Blue Dune Grass, Lysimachia ” Goldilocks” and large lobed non- blooming Lambsear compliment the Pines and Birch on site perfectly. Photos: gp
I’d like to add this black Mondo Grass to some large modern concrete saucers at the entry, but the jury is still out on whether or not they can really handle the harsh zone 5 winters. Photo: Better Homes and Gardens
“…that among these are
July 4, 2014
Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” *
*the Declaration of Independence 1776
If you’ve got it…
May 26, 2014
fly it. If you don’t have one…get one. Honor our nations fallen with the simple gesture of displaying the flag today, half staff until noon…full staff from noon to sunset.
For correct flag presentation and etiquette: http://www.usflag.org/flagetiquette.html
simplequietmodern 