Friday, May 25, 2007

My Outdoor Space

The comfort of my outdoor space is just as important as an indoor room in my house. In fact, they are very similar where furniture and decor are concerned. That is why it is essential to choose the right decor, furniture and accessories to fit your surroundings.

A comfortable table and chairs is on the top of my list for my covered patio. You can break away from the old standard wooden picnic table and benches by purchasing one made of glass or metal with matching chairs. Adding an comfortable cushions to the chairs makes it a comfortable place for you and your guests to relax and unwind. End tables are another great addition. They not only look great when placed strategically around the patio, but also provide a place for guests to put drinks.

Thursday, March 15, 2007

First Signs of Spring

This morning on my walk I noticed the first daffodils sprouting up with buds reminding me that the garden season is coming up fast. Soon everything will go from black and white to magnificent shades of green topped with the color of flowers. Time to make my garden plans and gear up for the up coming season.

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Mountain Landscape

Last fall I had the opportunity to spend a few days at a friends vacation home in the mountains of central Pennsyvania. He has a rustic log cabin cedar home on a couple of acres of ground in a picture perfect setting. What struck me most was the landscaping, no lawn to mow, feed or weed. The landscaping consisted of natural trees, ferns and mountain laurel. Everything was in a natural setting. The only maintenance required was to remove the leaves around the structure (fire prevention) and to keep the entrance area and driveway free of fallen debris.

I thought to myself this would definately be the way to go for a person that loves a natural setting with minimum upkeep.

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Garden Ponds

A couple of years ago I took the time and muscle to install a small pond in my back yard. At the time I asked myself is it worth all of this efort? Three years later I must say yes indeed, it was well worth the effort.

My pond has now matured and has a quiet relaxed look and feel to it. My pond has water lilly plants a few large gold fish along with frogs and tadpoles. I have a small waterfall that produces the most peaceful sound of a small babbling brook. I use this area of my back yard as a quiet escape from a hectic day where I can sit back and read a book or a magazine in a totally relaxed atmosphere.

Sunday, March 11, 2007

Low Cost Landscaping With Rocks

No matter where you live there is the desire to keep your home and yard to looking great. Some people will spend a fortune to landscape their yard and for others, spending that kind of money is just not a viable option. So how does the average homeowner on a tight budget make the landscaping around their house beautiful?

You can begin by improving your landscaping with rocks. Depending on where you live will determine the amount and type of rocks you can use. Landscaping with rocks can make your outdoor landscaping look stunning at little or no cost. Landscaping with rocks is an excellent way to make a lasting difference to the outside of your home. From building rock walls to using them in flower gardens or on slopes can give your home a brand new look.

For years, people wanted the green lawn front yard that looks just like everyone else’s. Now you have the opportunity to give the outside of your home a unique look of it's own!