It has been a busy day in the garden.  Laying bark, pruning, weeding, all in preparation for the return of husband and that mischevious basset lad, Merlin, after whom this garden has been named.  We have been experiencing a "cold" summer by San Diego standards, with heavy marine … [Read more...]

If I were to dwell on all that is not right with my life I would lose sight of what is right. So is true with life.  So is true with gardening. There is a certain mystique in the unknown, in the promise of what lies beyond our effort. We look around us and see the garden speak … [Read more...]

I found  in my garden a succulent in bloom.  Truly splendid.  Our corghi, Sophie, offered her own perfection as she rested by the succulent.  The succulent's flower made me smile.  So did our Sophie. … [Read more...]

The road of life twists and turns and no two directions are ever the same. Yet our lessons come from the journey, not the destination.”  Don Williams, Jr., American Novelist  and Poet I admit to being in a rut these past several weeks about what to write on this blog.  Should … [Read more...]

For the past few weeks, it has been raining tomatoes.  The combination of the rainfall we experienced this year and our steadfast sun have produced quite a crop.   More crop than Jim and I can eat. Produce makes a great gift. Ask my co-workers who love being the recipients of … [Read more...]

It is awful quiet around the property.  On occasion, I have envisioned a peaceful household devoid of chaos.  My vision lasts a short time.  It is only when that chaos is gone do I find myself wanting exactly that. Jim headed off with his brother, Doug, to parts Northwest.  … [Read more...]

We gardeners are obsessive creatures.  I came across this writing recently and decided to share.  All too true. You know you're addicted to gardening when..... Your neighbors recognize you in your pajamas, rubber clogs and a cup of coffee. You grab other people’s banana … [Read more...]

Inspired by a picture I took from the recent San Diego County Fair,  I was reminded to do what I love to do.  With a recent visit to a Coffee in the Garden affair sponsored by the San Diego Horticultural Society, and hosted by Carol Costarakis and Rolf Haas, I was also reminded … [Read more...]

I was in Home Depot on Saturday to look at wooden posts for birdhouses. I passed on the posts but as I was heading out the store I came across some sunflowers.  I picked up one pot and smiled.   Sunflowers have a way of undoing the worst of stress.  I then put the flower down, … [Read more...]

They say three is a charm.   So true with day three.  Despite a few work intrusions, I adhere to a promise to my husband to venture to the opening of the San Diego County Fair.    We went on Friday and I enjoyed most of all the display gardens.   The visit inspired me on many … [Read more...]