English Emma Blooms

As I step into my garden, I'm immediately embraced by the peaceful atmosphere of my own private retreat. From where I sit in one of the three black metal chairs on my brick patio, I can take in the full splendor of the space I've lovingly created. The gentle rustling of leaves from the mature trees above provides a natural canopy, casting dancing shadows across my favorite reading spot. To my delight, birds call to each other from the branches – chickadees whistle their cheerful songs, cardinals announce their presence with bright chirps, and occasionally a melodious robin adds its voice to nature's chorus. I've positioned my potted plants strategically around the seating area, their vibrant blooms and lush foliage bringing life and color to every corner of my outdoor sanctuary.

Following the stepping stone path I laid myself, I often wander through my garden, enjoying how the stones guide me past an array of carefully tended plants and flowers that I've collected over the years. The hanging plants I've nurtured sway gently in the breeze, and I smile every time I see the garden hose lying ready for my daily watering routine. The morning songbirds provide a delightful soundtrack, their sweet melodies adding another layer of enchantment to this space. This garden is more than just an outdoor area to me; it's a living, breathing extension of my home where I can find peace, inspiration, and joy in the natural world I've helped create.

 I worked on the new garden areas. I moved more shade plants to the shady areas and put some daylilies against the wall. I think daylilies need to hug the wall of the house—if they’re in front, it’s hard to see anything else! I do appreciate them. They both keep water in the soil and abate it so we don’t have a flood.

On the way home from Little Flower, I stopped at Lowe's and bought some volcanic rocks for the drainage pathway.  They look pretty good!  Now I need to figure out what to do with the rest of the pathway.  I don't think I can afford rocks for the whole thing.

A bird just jumped into one of my flower baskets with food for its babies. It has a nest in my flowers. I wish it didn’t do that—it makes watering difficult! But I am honored that it chose to share my home.

 Morning Reflection

It is a beautiful, misty English morning, and I love my backyard. It feels like an enchanted forest, filled with the sounds of birds and squirrels running around. It's just gorgeous.

Gardening Day

Today, I spent a lot of time writing in the morning. Later, I went to help Judy set up her new phone and loaded my car with items to bring back home.

In the late afternoon, I took Peanut out for a walk and did a lot of gardening. I planted purple and pink creeping thyme near the shed, along with clover and thyme all over the backyard. I’m excited as I’m expecting more seeds in the mail today and hope to find time to plant them!

Summer Enjoyment

I’m truly enjoying my summer break—spending time with friends, gardening, and having the chance to reflect.