Spring Dreams

It's that time of the year where winter is almost over, and I am itching to get out in the yard and work.  Even though it's not quite warm enough (or dry enough-- we're getting pouring rain today), my mind is already racing with new projects and "do this!" and "plant that!" ideas.  Some of the tasks include:

• transplant sedum to the side of the house (it grows too big around the front porch and dwarfs our boxwood row-- see what I mean)
• plant limelight hydrangea behind the new row of sedum
• create a container garden of boxwood on the front porch
• plant ivy along retaining walls of driveway

I'm sure the list will grow and change as the months progress, but this is what I've got brewing right now.  And, I realize that I never shared an "after" blog post on our new cobblestone driveway!  That will definitely be in the works for the spring (as soon as everything turns green, making for much prettier pictures). 

While I wait for my first day of serious yard work, I've been gathering more and more inspiration on my Pinterest page.  Here are some of my faves...

love the ivy beds here

 

 

my absolute DREAM.  Tall cypress trees = total privacy.

 

boxwood container garden

tips for growing hydrangea from trusty old This Old House

stunning!

more inspiration for a boxwood container garden

 

 

(please excuse Julianne)  Love the ivy above the retaining wall.

I LOVE this grouping with the woven outdoor furniture and bright white cushions.

 

We have four woven outdoor club chairs on the front porch from Target.  We bought them a few years ago and while I'm not totally in love with the style, I do really like them (and we honestly sit in them almost everyday in the warmer months).  Also, they're incredibly durable.  Should I buy a couple of matching ottomans this year?  I'm thinking I should.

 

 

 

Looking forward to warmer days!!

 

 

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It's Snowing (and that's not an April Fools joke)!!

I couldn't believe it.  I woke up to SNOW this morning.  This April 1st morning.  And, it's not an April Fools joke either-- it's real live icy snow.  Shouldn't the spring be here by now? For the love of God, when will it end?!!

and, my sweet little crocus flowers. dusted in an APRIL snow.

(notice all the purple ones are missing? damn you, squirrels!)

Happy Friday, sweets!

Hope you're enjoying some sun wherever you are!!

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The Sledding Hill

I love this colorful winter scene from photographer, Paul Octavious.

And here, Paul has captured the same hill (located outside Chicago).  But this time, it's in the spring...

both images are available at 20x200.

If you get your order in before January 31st, you'll save 20%! 

Use the (hysterical) coupon code: RIDONK

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Practical Picnic

Yesterday, I posted about dining al fresco... and, if you want to take it to the next level?  Go on a picnic.  But, be sure to bring this totally fabulous picnic basket (available at Bed Bath & Beyond!).

It's only $40.00 and it includes 21 pieces.  With an insulated interior!  This baby is packed with enough gear to serve four (however, I don't see any wine glasses!).  And, bonus?  The basket itself is beautiful.  So, leave out on display, rather than hidden in the garage.

For more picnic inspiration, check out this fabulous blog post (with recipes)!  Thanks, Mary Ellen!

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Spring Planters

Spring is in full swing here... and with it comes the pollen and allergy medicine. But, I am not complaining! I would rather deal with these obstacles than face another 20 degree day. With the recent (awesome) weather, I've decided to plant flowers on our deck... and hopefully I will be able to keep them alive until the Fall! If you are a beginner like me, you might have more fun shopping for planters than contemplating which hybrid petunia would grow best in south facing sun...

Here are a few terrific planters that I have found recently:


Ikea "Mynta" planters


"Dragon" planter at Wisteria


Fiberclay Chelsea Boxes from Jayson Home & Garden


modern grey planters at Smith & Hawken


round, cream "Mercer" planters at Smith & Hawken


black square "Mercer" planters at Smith & Hawken


Sleek Bamboo pot stand from Jayson Home & Garden

top image from Country Living Magazine