#refreshingly

[tranceberry]

refreshingly feminine

found by @sartorialadventure

[whimsicalwarlock]

(via GIPHY)

[ashley098]

Michael Frati’s A Pilgrim’s Process Offers a Bold and Refreshingly Honest Voice in Christian Literature

After more than fifteen years of encouragement from friends, church members, and even strangers, Michael Frati has released A Pilgrim’s Process. This deeply personal and compelling Christian book is already resonating with readers looking for something more authentic than traditional faith-based writing.

Far from a dry theological study or formula-driven self-help title, A Pilgrim’s Process is an honest, humorous, and emotionally rich account of one man’s lifelong journey with God. Written with remarkable vulnerability and storytelling power, the book offers readers a rare glimpse into the victories, failures, detours, and transformations that shaped Frati’s faith.

Drawing from decades of experience as a businessman, New York State Magistrate Judge, pastor, missionary, church builder, songwriter, husband, father, and grandfather, Frati presents spiritual truths not as abstract concepts but as realities tested through life itself.

At the heart of the book is a powerful message: God has a “Plan A” for every person’s life, while every self-directed alternative ultimately becomes “Plan B.” Through moving and often laugh-out-loud stories, Frati explores what happens when a person fully surrenders independence in exchange for complete trust in God’s direction.

“I wrote this book because I truly believe God wanted it written,” says Frati. “My life has been filled with lessons, failures, miracles, and moments of grace that may help others recognize His purpose for their own lives. This book is not a theory. It is a lived experience.”

Readers have praised A Pilgrim’s Process for its warmth, honesty, humor, and refreshing simplicity. Frati’s ability to make difficult spiritual ideas understandable without losing their depth has positioned the book as a standout addition to modern Christian literature.

What makes the book especially unique is the authenticity behind it. Frati does not write from a place of polished perfection. Instead, he shares openly about personal mistakes, struggles, and moments of hard-earned growth, creating a reading experience that feels deeply relatable and profoundly encouraging.

A Pilgrim’s Process is available in Kindle and paperback formats through major online retailers.

About Michael Frati

Michael Frati is a pastor, missionary, teacher, storyteller, and published author living in Tavares, Florida. Born in 1947, he spent 27 years as a successful businessman and 17 years serving as a New York State Magistrate Judge. Over the course of his ministry, he personally funded and built three churches in Livingstone, Zambia, and is currently building a fourth church in Lusaka, Zambia.

Frati holds a Bachelor of Theology degree and is also a songwriter and public speaker. He has been married to his wife, Patti, for 44 years, and together they have five children and nine grandchildren.

For media inquiries, interview requests, or review copies, please contact:

Michael Frati Tavares, Florida Email: 

Facebook: facebook.com/michaelfratii Instagram: instagram.com/michaelfratii

[tameblog]

Lacy cards, beauty-queen-worthy bouquets and beribboned boxes of chocolate often symbolize romance, especially around Feb. 14. But when it comes to gardens, romantic expression can be subtler and more wide-ranging. It can mean a single secluded alcove or an array of intimate nooks, or it can focus on fairy-tale flowers or foliage from the deepest woods. It can be whimsical, mysterious or something all its own. See how dreamy blooms, lush greenery, winding paths, fountains and more have made these five yards true romantics. Let us know in the Comments if any ideas might help your yard speak its own language of love.Before PhotoGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave Photo“After” photos by Nathalie Priem1. Rustic RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A retired couple active in the artsLocation: North LondonSize: 1,012 square feet (94 square meters)Landscape designer: Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignLandscape contractor: PerlaRose LandscapesBefore: A tall tree of heaven growing up from the ground floor and a dumbwaiter connecting to a kitchen one floor below were two big advantages of this North London terrace. It also got a lot of wind and had no apparent purpose, however. The homeowners took the recommendation of a neighbor who’d found Georgia Lindsay Garden Design on Houzz and hired the firm to design an inviting escape worthy of the view.Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: The tree of heaven now provides dappled shade for an eight-seater dining table, while blooms spill exuberantly from planters nearby. Set between those planters, an outdoor kitchen with a gas grill feels unobtrusive. New wood furnishings freshen the feel without undermining the existing silvery decking, tree bark and cedar-clad dumbwaiter.That lantern hanging from the branches is purely decorative, by the way. Ambient light from the surrounding buildings provides enough illumination to keep added light fixtures to a minimum.Find a local landscape designerGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoTucked into a corner and cocooned by ‘Rich Ruby’ beardtongue (Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’, USDA zones 7 to 9; find your zone) sits this outdoor room with pillow-laden benches and oak chairs surrounding a coffee table. Although they look built in, the benches are made of a lightweight concrete-effect resin and can be moved as needed.Read more about this projectBefore PhotoFormLA LandscapingSave Photo“After” photos by Lesly Hall Photography2. Secret RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Bea and Tom SchumacherLocation: Pasadena, CaliforniaSize: 4,570-square-foot (425-square-meter) backyard; 4,500-square-foot (418-square-meter) front yard; 700-square-foot (65-square-meter) parking stripDesign-build team: Isara Ongwiseth, lead designer, and John Cook, landscape installation manager, both of FormLA LandscapingBefore: Little protection from the searing sun left this yard in Southern California parched. It had no destination areas, either, and was a pain to mow and water. The homeowners hired FormLA Landscaping to create a series of outdoor rooms that would require less maintenance and offer a beautifully immersive experience.FormLA LandscapingSave PhotoAfter: The canopy of a Chinese elm, which came with the property, shades a long outdoor dining table and crunchy gravel patio just off a new covered lounge and outdoor kitchen. Along with a rich tapestry of California native plants and Mediterranean-climate thrivers, it creates the feel of a hidden delight. Can you tell that one of the homeowners is enamored of what Mary discovers behind an outdoor door in The Secret Garden?Shop for outdoor dining furniture on HouzzFormLA LandscapingSave PhotoConcrete pavers with planted joints form a path from the dining area to a nook nestled up against some fencing. Oversize chairs around an earthy fire bowl there allow for relaxing to a soothing soundtrack of birdsong and a water feature.The new water-conscious plantings foster a hideaway feel with their lushness, while their colors and textures offer an ever-changing feast for the eyes year-round.Read more about this project“After” photos by Tina Witherspoon3. Artful RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A couple, their daughter and their catLocation: Ballard neighborhood of SeattleSize: 1,500-square-foot (139-square-meter) side yard on a 5,400-square-foot (502-square-meter) lotLandscape architect: Board & VellumLandscape contractor: Sage and StoneBefore: A fencing project for this Seattle side yard turned into a full redesign. The homeowners wanted more privacy without feeling completely walled off, and they wanted to be able to use and enjoy the expansive area more — not easy, given its noticeable grade change. Design firm Board & Vellum came on board to create a leafy outdoor oasis with just the right amount of seclusion.After: See those Japanese maples (Acer palmatum, zones 5 to 8) at the back here? They’re the same as in the previous photo, but you can see how everything else has changed. Flagstones interspersed with ground covers and bordered by delightful purple ‘Rozanne’ cranesbill (Geranium ‘Rozanne’, zones 4 to 9) wend toward not just the maples but a patio with a trio of aluminum panels laser-cut in a tree design that the homeowners’ daughter drew. A petite round water feature and a blanket of low-lying ferns balance the tall rectangular forms.String lights and glowing path lights conjure a magical vibe after the sun goes down.10 Ways to Create a Romantic GardenRegrading made for an easier transition from the sidewalk into the yard, while a new entry gate with an artful custom metal piece continues the tree theme. And the yard brims with color and texture, thanks to plants such as chartreuse Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’, zones 4 to 9), Eternal Fragrance daphne (Daphne x transatlantica ‘Blafra’, zones 5 to 9) and ‘Purple Stem’ sweetbox (Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna ‘Purple Stem’, zones 6 to 8).Native evergreen huckleberries (Vaccinium ovatum) and ‘Winter Sun’ mahonia (Mahonia x media ‘Winter Sun’) elsewhere in the yard draw hummingbirds, butterflies and other winged creatures, enhancing the already idyllic retreat. Read more about this projectBefore PhotoKate BurtSave Photo“After” photos by Jo de Banzie4. Reimagined RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Photographic artist Jo de Banzie and her husbandLocation: Muswell Hill, North LondonSize: About 1,130 square feet (105 square meters) Landscape designer: Jilayne RickardsBefore: Though lacking character and charm, this North London backyard held plenty of promise. As it had already been landscaped, designer Jilayne Rickards worked as much as possible with what was there, including the patio area and gravel seen here. She also sourced additional items secondhand, and nothing went to the landfill.Jilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: Because the site is shady and most of the soil is tricky clay, the design centers around ground-planted foliage and abundant containers. Here, a sweet little seating area gets shade from an apple tree, home to a playful surprise: a tree house. A dense screen of established black bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra, zones 7 to 11) hides a shed, and new black paint on the existing fence lends depth and an air of mystery.Caution: Bamboo can be invasive; opt for a clumping variety and consult guidelines for your area before planting. (A trench and root barrier keep the bamboo here in check.)10 Garden Nooks That Are Perfect for One or Two PeopleJilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoArtistic elements, including the circular fence cutout seen in the previous photo and a fanciful antique bench here, are sprinkled throughout. Together with the blend of striking succulents, layers of leaves and lovely blossoms, they give the garden an enchanting air.Read more about this project“After” photos by Lepere Studio5. Ranch RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Steve and Debra CummingsLocation: Santa Paula, CaliforniaSize: About one-fifth of an acre on an 80-acre ranchLandscape architect: Kiesel DesignLandscape installer: Haney LandscapeBefore: Among scraggly trees on an 80-acre avocado ranch in California’s Santa Clara River Valley sat this plain rectangular lawn abutting a livestock pen. The property has been in the owners’ family for generations, and they recently tapped Kiesel Design to turn this area into an outdoor destination filled with visual delights — using Houzz ideabooks to share inspiration.Kiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoAfter: Right about where the dog is keeping a lookout in the previous photo, a double-wide gate now opens to an enclosed garden. Concrete pavers lead from the back of the house to the yard, their staggered design hinting that nothing beyond is simply about getting from point A to point B.Across from the covered deck seen here lies an artistic fountain carved from a sandstone boulder, where birds drink and play. Down the path a bit sits a dining area with seating for six. And farther along, a natural gas fire feature made of Cor-Ten steel and lava rock anchors a seating area that would do a campsite proud. 10 Things to Know About Buying a Fire Pit for Your YardKiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoPaths made of decomposed granite flow through the yard like waterways. They offer opportunities for walking meditation or for sitting and taking in the views of the planting islands at hand and the Topatopa Mountains in the distance.These two “after” photos show only small portions of the garden, which stretches to about a fifth of an acre. It focuses on water-conscious and pollinator-attracting plantings but includes a variety of blooms too, including roses — all in a vivid palette of purples, oranges, pinks and greens and in a range of stirring scents. Read more about this projectMore on HouzzRead more stories about patiosBrowse thousands of patio photosHire a landscape contractorShop for your outdoor spaces Source link

[ramestoryworld]

Lacy cards, beauty-queen-worthy bouquets and beribboned boxes of chocolate often symbolize romance, especially around Feb. 14. But when it comes to gardens, romantic expression can be subtler and more wide-ranging. It can mean a single secluded alcove or an array of intimate nooks, or it can focus on fairy-tale flowers or foliage from the deepest woods. It can be whimsical, mysterious or something all its own. See how dreamy blooms, lush greenery, winding paths, fountains and more have made these five yards true romantics. Let us know in the Comments if any ideas might help your yard speak its own language of love.Before PhotoGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave Photo“After” photos by Nathalie Priem1. Rustic RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A retired couple active in the artsLocation: North LondonSize: 1,012 square feet (94 square meters)Landscape designer: Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignLandscape contractor: PerlaRose LandscapesBefore: A tall tree of heaven growing up from the ground floor and a dumbwaiter connecting to a kitchen one floor below were two big advantages of this North London terrace. It also got a lot of wind and had no apparent purpose, however. The homeowners took the recommendation of a neighbor who’d found Georgia Lindsay Garden Design on Houzz and hired the firm to design an inviting escape worthy of the view.Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: The tree of heaven now provides dappled shade for an eight-seater dining table, while blooms spill exuberantly from planters nearby. Set between those planters, an outdoor kitchen with a gas grill feels unobtrusive. New wood furnishings freshen the feel without undermining the existing silvery decking, tree bark and cedar-clad dumbwaiter.That lantern hanging from the branches is purely decorative, by the way. Ambient light from the surrounding buildings provides enough illumination to keep added light fixtures to a minimum.Find a local landscape designerGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoTucked into a corner and cocooned by ‘Rich Ruby’ beardtongue (Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’, USDA zones 7 to 9; find your zone) sits this outdoor room with pillow-laden benches and oak chairs surrounding a coffee table. Although they look built in, the benches are made of a lightweight concrete-effect resin and can be moved as needed.Read more about this projectBefore PhotoFormLA LandscapingSave Photo“After” photos by Lesly Hall Photography2. Secret RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Bea and Tom SchumacherLocation: Pasadena, CaliforniaSize: 4,570-square-foot (425-square-meter) backyard; 4,500-square-foot (418-square-meter) front yard; 700-square-foot (65-square-meter) parking stripDesign-build team: Isara Ongwiseth, lead designer, and John Cook, landscape installation manager, both of FormLA LandscapingBefore: Little protection from the searing sun left this yard in Southern California parched. It had no destination areas, either, and was a pain to mow and water. The homeowners hired FormLA Landscaping to create a series of outdoor rooms that would require less maintenance and offer a beautifully immersive experience.FormLA LandscapingSave PhotoAfter: The canopy of a Chinese elm, which came with the property, shades a long outdoor dining table and crunchy gravel patio just off a new covered lounge and outdoor kitchen. Along with a rich tapestry of California native plants and Mediterranean-climate thrivers, it creates the feel of a hidden delight. Can you tell that one of the homeowners is enamored of what Mary discovers behind an outdoor door in The Secret Garden?Shop for outdoor dining furniture on HouzzFormLA LandscapingSave PhotoConcrete pavers with planted joints form a path from the dining area to a nook nestled up against some fencing. Oversize chairs around an earthy fire bowl there allow for relaxing to a soothing soundtrack of birdsong and a water feature.The new water-conscious plantings foster a hideaway feel with their lushness, while their colors and textures offer an ever-changing feast for the eyes year-round.Read more about this project“After” photos by Tina Witherspoon3. Artful RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A couple, their daughter and their catLocation: Ballard neighborhood of SeattleSize: 1,500-square-foot (139-square-meter) side yard on a 5,400-square-foot (502-square-meter) lotLandscape architect: Board & VellumLandscape contractor: Sage and StoneBefore: A fencing project for this Seattle side yard turned into a full redesign. The homeowners wanted more privacy without feeling completely walled off, and they wanted to be able to use and enjoy the expansive area more — not easy, given its noticeable grade change. Design firm Board & Vellum came on board to create a leafy outdoor oasis with just the right amount of seclusion.After: See those Japanese maples (Acer palmatum, zones 5 to 8) at the back here? They’re the same as in the previous photo, but you can see how everything else has changed. Flagstones interspersed with ground covers and bordered by delightful purple ‘Rozanne’ cranesbill (Geranium ‘Rozanne’, zones 4 to 9) wend toward not just the maples but a patio with a trio of aluminum panels laser-cut in a tree design that the homeowners’ daughter drew. A petite round water feature and a blanket of low-lying ferns balance the tall rectangular forms.String lights and glowing path lights conjure a magical vibe after the sun goes down.10 Ways to Create a Romantic GardenRegrading made for an easier transition from the sidewalk into the yard, while a new entry gate with an artful custom metal piece continues the tree theme. And the yard brims with color and texture, thanks to plants such as chartreuse Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’, zones 4 to 9), Eternal Fragrance daphne (Daphne x transatlantica ‘Blafra’, zones 5 to 9) and ‘Purple Stem’ sweetbox (Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna ‘Purple Stem’, zones 6 to 8).Native evergreen huckleberries (Vaccinium ovatum) and ‘Winter Sun’ mahonia (Mahonia x media ‘Winter Sun’) elsewhere in the yard draw hummingbirds, butterflies and other winged creatures, enhancing the already idyllic retreat. Read more about this projectBefore PhotoKate BurtSave Photo“After” photos by Jo de Banzie4. Reimagined RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Photographic artist Jo de Banzie and her husbandLocation: Muswell Hill, North LondonSize: About 1,130 square feet (105 square meters) Landscape designer: Jilayne RickardsBefore: Though lacking character and charm, this North London backyard held plenty of promise. As it had already been landscaped, designer Jilayne Rickards worked as much as possible with what was there, including the patio area and gravel seen here. She also sourced additional items secondhand, and nothing went to the landfill.Jilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: Because the site is shady and most of the soil is tricky clay, the design centers around ground-planted foliage and abundant containers. Here, a sweet little seating area gets shade from an apple tree, home to a playful surprise: a tree house. A dense screen of established black bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra, zones 7 to 11) hides a shed, and new black paint on the existing fence lends depth and an air of mystery.Caution: Bamboo can be invasive; opt for a clumping variety and consult guidelines for your area before planting. (A trench and root barrier keep the bamboo here in check.)10 Garden Nooks That Are Perfect for One or Two PeopleJilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoArtistic elements, including the circular fence cutout seen in the previous photo and a fanciful antique bench here, are sprinkled throughout. Together with the blend of striking succulents, layers of leaves and lovely blossoms, they give the garden an enchanting air.Read more about this project“After” photos by Lepere Studio5. Ranch RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Steve and Debra CummingsLocation: Santa Paula, CaliforniaSize: About one-fifth of an acre on an 80-acre ranchLandscape architect: Kiesel DesignLandscape installer: Haney LandscapeBefore: Among scraggly trees on an 80-acre avocado ranch in California’s Santa Clara River Valley sat this plain rectangular lawn abutting a livestock pen. The property has been in the owners’ family for generations, and they recently tapped Kiesel Design to turn this area into an outdoor destination filled with visual delights — using Houzz ideabooks to share inspiration.Kiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoAfter: Right about where the dog is keeping a lookout in the previous photo, a double-wide gate now opens to an enclosed garden. Concrete pavers lead from the back of the house to the yard, their staggered design hinting that nothing beyond is simply about getting from point A to point B.Across from the covered deck seen here lies an artistic fountain carved from a sandstone boulder, where birds drink and play. Down the path a bit sits a dining area with seating for six. And farther along, a natural gas fire feature made of Cor-Ten steel and lava rock anchors a seating area that would do a campsite proud. 10 Things to Know About Buying a Fire Pit for Your YardKiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoPaths made of decomposed granite flow through the yard like waterways. They offer opportunities for walking meditation or for sitting and taking in the views of the planting islands at hand and the Topatopa Mountains in the distance.These two “after” photos show only small portions of the garden, which stretches to about a fifth of an acre. It focuses on water-conscious and pollinator-attracting plantings but includes a variety of blooms too, including roses — all in a vivid palette of purples, oranges, pinks and greens and in a range of stirring scents. Read more about this projectMore on HouzzRead more stories about patiosBrowse thousands of patio photosHire a landscape contractorShop for your outdoor spaces Source link

[alexha2210]

Lacy cards, beauty-queen-worthy bouquets and beribboned boxes of chocolate often symbolize romance, especially around Feb. 14. But when it comes to gardens, romantic expression can be subtler and more wide-ranging. It can mean a single secluded alcove or an array of intimate nooks, or it can focus on fairy-tale flowers or foliage from the deepest woods. It can be whimsical, mysterious or something all its own. See how dreamy blooms, lush greenery, winding paths, fountains and more have made these five yards true romantics. Let us know in the Comments if any ideas might help your yard speak its own language of love.Before PhotoGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave Photo“After” photos by Nathalie Priem1. Rustic RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A retired couple active in the artsLocation: North LondonSize: 1,012 square feet (94 square meters)Landscape designer: Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignLandscape contractor: PerlaRose LandscapesBefore: A tall tree of heaven growing up from the ground floor and a dumbwaiter connecting to a kitchen one floor below were two big advantages of this North London terrace. It also got a lot of wind and had no apparent purpose, however. The homeowners took the recommendation of a neighbor who’d found Georgia Lindsay Garden Design on Houzz and hired the firm to design an inviting escape worthy of the view.Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: The tree of heaven now provides dappled shade for an eight-seater dining table, while blooms spill exuberantly from planters nearby. Set between those planters, an outdoor kitchen with a gas grill feels unobtrusive. New wood furnishings freshen the feel without undermining the existing silvery decking, tree bark and cedar-clad dumbwaiter.That lantern hanging from the branches is purely decorative, by the way. Ambient light from the surrounding buildings provides enough illumination to keep added light fixtures to a minimum.Find a local landscape designerGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoTucked into a corner and cocooned by ‘Rich Ruby’ beardtongue (Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’, USDA zones 7 to 9; find your zone) sits this outdoor room with pillow-laden benches and oak chairs surrounding a coffee table. Although they look built in, the benches are made of a lightweight concrete-effect resin and can be moved as needed.Read more about this projectBefore PhotoFormLA LandscapingSave Photo“After” photos by Lesly Hall Photography2. Secret RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Bea and Tom SchumacherLocation: Pasadena, CaliforniaSize: 4,570-square-foot (425-square-meter) backyard; 4,500-square-foot (418-square-meter) front yard; 700-square-foot (65-square-meter) parking stripDesign-build team: Isara Ongwiseth, lead designer, and John Cook, landscape installation manager, both of FormLA LandscapingBefore: Little protection from the searing sun left this yard in Southern California parched. It had no destination areas, either, and was a pain to mow and water. The homeowners hired FormLA Landscaping to create a series of outdoor rooms that would require less maintenance and offer a beautifully immersive experience.FormLA LandscapingSave PhotoAfter: The canopy of a Chinese elm, which came with the property, shades a long outdoor dining table and crunchy gravel patio just off a new covered lounge and outdoor kitchen. Along with a rich tapestry of California native plants and Mediterranean-climate thrivers, it creates the feel of a hidden delight. Can you tell that one of the homeowners is enamored of what Mary discovers behind an outdoor door in The Secret Garden?Shop for outdoor dining furniture on HouzzFormLA LandscapingSave PhotoConcrete pavers with planted joints form a path from the dining area to a nook nestled up against some fencing. Oversize chairs around an earthy fire bowl there allow for relaxing to a soothing soundtrack of birdsong and a water feature.The new water-conscious plantings foster a hideaway feel with their lushness, while their colors and textures offer an ever-changing feast for the eyes year-round.Read more about this project“After” photos by Tina Witherspoon3. Artful RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A couple, their daughter and their catLocation: Ballard neighborhood of SeattleSize: 1,500-square-foot (139-square-meter) side yard on a 5,400-square-foot (502-square-meter) lotLandscape architect: Board & VellumLandscape contractor: Sage and StoneBefore: A fencing project for this Seattle side yard turned into a full redesign. The homeowners wanted more privacy without feeling completely walled off, and they wanted to be able to use and enjoy the expansive area more — not easy, given its noticeable grade change. Design firm Board & Vellum came on board to create a leafy outdoor oasis with just the right amount of seclusion.After: See those Japanese maples (Acer palmatum, zones 5 to 8) at the back here? They’re the same as in the previous photo, but you can see how everything else has changed. Flagstones interspersed with ground covers and bordered by delightful purple ‘Rozanne’ cranesbill (Geranium ‘Rozanne’, zones 4 to 9) wend toward not just the maples but a patio with a trio of aluminum panels laser-cut in a tree design that the homeowners’ daughter drew. A petite round water feature and a blanket of low-lying ferns balance the tall rectangular forms.String lights and glowing path lights conjure a magical vibe after the sun goes down.10 Ways to Create a Romantic GardenRegrading made for an easier transition from the sidewalk into the yard, while a new entry gate with an artful custom metal piece continues the tree theme. And the yard brims with color and texture, thanks to plants such as chartreuse Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’, zones 4 to 9), Eternal Fragrance daphne (Daphne x transatlantica ‘Blafra’, zones 5 to 9) and ‘Purple Stem’ sweetbox (Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna ‘Purple Stem’, zones 6 to 8).Native evergreen huckleberries (Vaccinium ovatum) and ‘Winter Sun’ mahonia (Mahonia x media ‘Winter Sun’) elsewhere in the yard draw hummingbirds, butterflies and other winged creatures, enhancing the already idyllic retreat. Read more about this projectBefore PhotoKate BurtSave Photo“After” photos by Jo de Banzie4. Reimagined RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Photographic artist Jo de Banzie and her husbandLocation: Muswell Hill, North LondonSize: About 1,130 square feet (105 square meters) Landscape designer: Jilayne RickardsBefore: Though lacking character and charm, this North London backyard held plenty of promise. As it had already been landscaped, designer Jilayne Rickards worked as much as possible with what was there, including the patio area and gravel seen here. She also sourced additional items secondhand, and nothing went to the landfill.Jilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: Because the site is shady and most of the soil is tricky clay, the design centers around ground-planted foliage and abundant containers. Here, a sweet little seating area gets shade from an apple tree, home to a playful surprise: a tree house. A dense screen of established black bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra, zones 7 to 11) hides a shed, and new black paint on the existing fence lends depth and an air of mystery.Caution: Bamboo can be invasive; opt for a clumping variety and consult guidelines for your area before planting. (A trench and root barrier keep the bamboo here in check.)10 Garden Nooks That Are Perfect for One or Two PeopleJilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoArtistic elements, including the circular fence cutout seen in the previous photo and a fanciful antique bench here, are sprinkled throughout. Together with the blend of striking succulents, layers of leaves and lovely blossoms, they give the garden an enchanting air.Read more about this project“After” photos by Lepere Studio5. Ranch RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Steve and Debra CummingsLocation: Santa Paula, CaliforniaSize: About one-fifth of an acre on an 80-acre ranchLandscape architect: Kiesel DesignLandscape installer: Haney LandscapeBefore: Among scraggly trees on an 80-acre avocado ranch in California’s Santa Clara River Valley sat this plain rectangular lawn abutting a livestock pen. The property has been in the owners’ family for generations, and they recently tapped Kiesel Design to turn this area into an outdoor destination filled with visual delights — using Houzz ideabooks to share inspiration.Kiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoAfter: Right about where the dog is keeping a lookout in the previous photo, a double-wide gate now opens to an enclosed garden. Concrete pavers lead from the back of the house to the yard, their staggered design hinting that nothing beyond is simply about getting from point A to point B.Across from the covered deck seen here lies an artistic fountain carved from a sandstone boulder, where birds drink and play. Down the path a bit sits a dining area with seating for six. And farther along, a natural gas fire feature made of Cor-Ten steel and lava rock anchors a seating area that would do a campsite proud. 10 Things to Know About Buying a Fire Pit for Your YardKiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoPaths made of decomposed granite flow through the yard like waterways. They offer opportunities for walking meditation or for sitting and taking in the views of the planting islands at hand and the Topatopa Mountains in the distance.These two “after” photos show only small portions of the garden, which stretches to about a fifth of an acre. It focuses on water-conscious and pollinator-attracting plantings but includes a variety of blooms too, including roses — all in a vivid palette of purples, oranges, pinks and greens and in a range of stirring scents. Read more about this projectMore on HouzzRead more stories about patiosBrowse thousands of patio photosHire a landscape contractorShop for your outdoor spaces Source link

[angusstory]

Lacy cards, beauty-queen-worthy bouquets and beribboned boxes of chocolate often symbolize romance, especially around Feb. 14. But when it comes to gardens, romantic expression can be subtler and more wide-ranging. It can mean a single secluded alcove or an array of intimate nooks, or it can focus on fairy-tale flowers or foliage from the deepest woods. It can be whimsical, mysterious or something all its own. See how dreamy blooms, lush greenery, winding paths, fountains and more have made these five yards true romantics. Let us know in the Comments if any ideas might help your yard speak its own language of love.Before PhotoGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave Photo“After” photos by Nathalie Priem1. Rustic RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A retired couple active in the artsLocation: North LondonSize: 1,012 square feet (94 square meters)Landscape designer: Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignLandscape contractor: PerlaRose LandscapesBefore: A tall tree of heaven growing up from the ground floor and a dumbwaiter connecting to a kitchen one floor below were two big advantages of this North London terrace. It also got a lot of wind and had no apparent purpose, however. The homeowners took the recommendation of a neighbor who’d found Georgia Lindsay Garden Design on Houzz and hired the firm to design an inviting escape worthy of the view.Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: The tree of heaven now provides dappled shade for an eight-seater dining table, while blooms spill exuberantly from planters nearby. Set between those planters, an outdoor kitchen with a gas grill feels unobtrusive. New wood furnishings freshen the feel without undermining the existing silvery decking, tree bark and cedar-clad dumbwaiter.That lantern hanging from the branches is purely decorative, by the way. Ambient light from the surrounding buildings provides enough illumination to keep added light fixtures to a minimum.Find a local landscape designerGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoTucked into a corner and cocooned by ‘Rich Ruby’ beardtongue (Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’, USDA zones 7 to 9; find your zone) sits this outdoor room with pillow-laden benches and oak chairs surrounding a coffee table. Although they look built in, the benches are made of a lightweight concrete-effect resin and can be moved as needed.Read more about this projectBefore PhotoFormLA LandscapingSave Photo“After” photos by Lesly Hall Photography2. Secret RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Bea and Tom SchumacherLocation: Pasadena, CaliforniaSize: 4,570-square-foot (425-square-meter) backyard; 4,500-square-foot (418-square-meter) front yard; 700-square-foot (65-square-meter) parking stripDesign-build team: Isara Ongwiseth, lead designer, and John Cook, landscape installation manager, both of FormLA LandscapingBefore: Little protection from the searing sun left this yard in Southern California parched. It had no destination areas, either, and was a pain to mow and water. The homeowners hired FormLA Landscaping to create a series of outdoor rooms that would require less maintenance and offer a beautifully immersive experience.FormLA LandscapingSave PhotoAfter: The canopy of a Chinese elm, which came with the property, shades a long outdoor dining table and crunchy gravel patio just off a new covered lounge and outdoor kitchen. Along with a rich tapestry of California native plants and Mediterranean-climate thrivers, it creates the feel of a hidden delight. Can you tell that one of the homeowners is enamored of what Mary discovers behind an outdoor door in The Secret Garden?Shop for outdoor dining furniture on HouzzFormLA LandscapingSave PhotoConcrete pavers with planted joints form a path from the dining area to a nook nestled up against some fencing. Oversize chairs around an earthy fire bowl there allow for relaxing to a soothing soundtrack of birdsong and a water feature.The new water-conscious plantings foster a hideaway feel with their lushness, while their colors and textures offer an ever-changing feast for the eyes year-round.Read more about this project“After” photos by Tina Witherspoon3. Artful RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A couple, their daughter and their catLocation: Ballard neighborhood of SeattleSize: 1,500-square-foot (139-square-meter) side yard on a 5,400-square-foot (502-square-meter) lotLandscape architect: Board & VellumLandscape contractor: Sage and StoneBefore: A fencing project for this Seattle side yard turned into a full redesign. The homeowners wanted more privacy without feeling completely walled off, and they wanted to be able to use and enjoy the expansive area more — not easy, given its noticeable grade change. Design firm Board & Vellum came on board to create a leafy outdoor oasis with just the right amount of seclusion.After: See those Japanese maples (Acer palmatum, zones 5 to 8) at the back here? They’re the same as in the previous photo, but you can see how everything else has changed. Flagstones interspersed with ground covers and bordered by delightful purple ‘Rozanne’ cranesbill (Geranium ‘Rozanne’, zones 4 to 9) wend toward not just the maples but a patio with a trio of aluminum panels laser-cut in a tree design that the homeowners’ daughter drew. A petite round water feature and a blanket of low-lying ferns balance the tall rectangular forms.String lights and glowing path lights conjure a magical vibe after the sun goes down.10 Ways to Create a Romantic GardenRegrading made for an easier transition from the sidewalk into the yard, while a new entry gate with an artful custom metal piece continues the tree theme. And the yard brims with color and texture, thanks to plants such as chartreuse Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’, zones 4 to 9), Eternal Fragrance daphne (Daphne x transatlantica ‘Blafra’, zones 5 to 9) and ‘Purple Stem’ sweetbox (Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna ‘Purple Stem’, zones 6 to 8).Native evergreen huckleberries (Vaccinium ovatum) and ‘Winter Sun’ mahonia (Mahonia x media ‘Winter Sun’) elsewhere in the yard draw hummingbirds, butterflies and other winged creatures, enhancing the already idyllic retreat. Read more about this projectBefore PhotoKate BurtSave Photo“After” photos by Jo de Banzie4. Reimagined RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Photographic artist Jo de Banzie and her husbandLocation: Muswell Hill, North LondonSize: About 1,130 square feet (105 square meters) Landscape designer: Jilayne RickardsBefore: Though lacking character and charm, this North London backyard held plenty of promise. As it had already been landscaped, designer Jilayne Rickards worked as much as possible with what was there, including the patio area and gravel seen here. She also sourced additional items secondhand, and nothing went to the landfill.Jilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: Because the site is shady and most of the soil is tricky clay, the design centers around ground-planted foliage and abundant containers. Here, a sweet little seating area gets shade from an apple tree, home to a playful surprise: a tree house. A dense screen of established black bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra, zones 7 to 11) hides a shed, and new black paint on the existing fence lends depth and an air of mystery.Caution: Bamboo can be invasive; opt for a clumping variety and consult guidelines for your area before planting. (A trench and root barrier keep the bamboo here in check.)10 Garden Nooks That Are Perfect for One or Two PeopleJilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoArtistic elements, including the circular fence cutout seen in the previous photo and a fanciful antique bench here, are sprinkled throughout. Together with the blend of striking succulents, layers of leaves and lovely blossoms, they give the garden an enchanting air.Read more about this project“After” photos by Lepere Studio5. Ranch RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Steve and Debra CummingsLocation: Santa Paula, CaliforniaSize: About one-fifth of an acre on an 80-acre ranchLandscape architect: Kiesel DesignLandscape installer: Haney LandscapeBefore: Among scraggly trees on an 80-acre avocado ranch in California’s Santa Clara River Valley sat this plain rectangular lawn abutting a livestock pen. The property has been in the owners’ family for generations, and they recently tapped Kiesel Design to turn this area into an outdoor destination filled with visual delights — using Houzz ideabooks to share inspiration.Kiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoAfter: Right about where the dog is keeping a lookout in the previous photo, a double-wide gate now opens to an enclosed garden. Concrete pavers lead from the back of the house to the yard, their staggered design hinting that nothing beyond is simply about getting from point A to point B.Across from the covered deck seen here lies an artistic fountain carved from a sandstone boulder, where birds drink and play. Down the path a bit sits a dining area with seating for six. And farther along, a natural gas fire feature made of Cor-Ten steel and lava rock anchors a seating area that would do a campsite proud. 10 Things to Know About Buying a Fire Pit for Your YardKiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoPaths made of decomposed granite flow through the yard like waterways. They offer opportunities for walking meditation or for sitting and taking in the views of the planting islands at hand and the Topatopa Mountains in the distance.These two “after” photos show only small portions of the garden, which stretches to about a fifth of an acre. It focuses on water-conscious and pollinator-attracting plantings but includes a variety of blooms too, including roses — all in a vivid palette of purples, oranges, pinks and greens and in a range of stirring scents. Read more about this projectMore on HouzzRead more stories about patiosBrowse thousands of patio photosHire a landscape contractorShop for your outdoor spaces Source link

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Lacy cards, beauty-queen-worthy bouquets and beribboned boxes of chocolate often symbolize romance, especially around Feb. 14. But when it comes to gardens, romantic expression can be subtler and more wide-ranging. It can mean a single secluded alcove or an array of intimate nooks, or it can focus on fairy-tale flowers or foliage from the deepest woods. It can be whimsical, mysterious or something all its own. See how dreamy blooms, lush greenery, winding paths, fountains and more have made these five yards true romantics. Let us know in the Comments if any ideas might help your yard speak its own language of love.Before PhotoGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave Photo“After” photos by Nathalie Priem1. Rustic RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A retired couple active in the artsLocation: North LondonSize: 1,012 square feet (94 square meters)Landscape designer: Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignLandscape contractor: PerlaRose LandscapesBefore: A tall tree of heaven growing up from the ground floor and a dumbwaiter connecting to a kitchen one floor below were two big advantages of this North London terrace. It also got a lot of wind and had no apparent purpose, however. The homeowners took the recommendation of a neighbor who’d found Georgia Lindsay Garden Design on Houzz and hired the firm to design an inviting escape worthy of the view.Georgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: The tree of heaven now provides dappled shade for an eight-seater dining table, while blooms spill exuberantly from planters nearby. Set between those planters, an outdoor kitchen with a gas grill feels unobtrusive. New wood furnishings freshen the feel without undermining the existing silvery decking, tree bark and cedar-clad dumbwaiter.That lantern hanging from the branches is purely decorative, by the way. Ambient light from the surrounding buildings provides enough illumination to keep added light fixtures to a minimum.Find a local landscape designerGeorgia Lindsay Garden DesignSave PhotoTucked into a corner and cocooned by ‘Rich Ruby’ beardtongue (Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’, USDA zones 7 to 9; find your zone) sits this outdoor room with pillow-laden benches and oak chairs surrounding a coffee table. Although they look built in, the benches are made of a lightweight concrete-effect resin and can be moved as needed.Read more about this projectBefore PhotoFormLA LandscapingSave Photo“After” photos by Lesly Hall Photography2. Secret RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Bea and Tom SchumacherLocation: Pasadena, CaliforniaSize: 4,570-square-foot (425-square-meter) backyard; 4,500-square-foot (418-square-meter) front yard; 700-square-foot (65-square-meter) parking stripDesign-build team: Isara Ongwiseth, lead designer, and John Cook, landscape installation manager, both of FormLA LandscapingBefore: Little protection from the searing sun left this yard in Southern California parched. It had no destination areas, either, and was a pain to mow and water. The homeowners hired FormLA Landscaping to create a series of outdoor rooms that would require less maintenance and offer a beautifully immersive experience.FormLA LandscapingSave PhotoAfter: The canopy of a Chinese elm, which came with the property, shades a long outdoor dining table and crunchy gravel patio just off a new covered lounge and outdoor kitchen. Along with a rich tapestry of California native plants and Mediterranean-climate thrivers, it creates the feel of a hidden delight. Can you tell that one of the homeowners is enamored of what Mary discovers behind an outdoor door in The Secret Garden?Shop for outdoor dining furniture on HouzzFormLA LandscapingSave PhotoConcrete pavers with planted joints form a path from the dining area to a nook nestled up against some fencing. Oversize chairs around an earthy fire bowl there allow for relaxing to a soothing soundtrack of birdsong and a water feature.The new water-conscious plantings foster a hideaway feel with their lushness, while their colors and textures offer an ever-changing feast for the eyes year-round.Read more about this project“After” photos by Tina Witherspoon3. Artful RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: A couple, their daughter and their catLocation: Ballard neighborhood of SeattleSize: 1,500-square-foot (139-square-meter) side yard on a 5,400-square-foot (502-square-meter) lotLandscape architect: Board & VellumLandscape contractor: Sage and StoneBefore: A fencing project for this Seattle side yard turned into a full redesign. The homeowners wanted more privacy without feeling completely walled off, and they wanted to be able to use and enjoy the expansive area more — not easy, given its noticeable grade change. Design firm Board & Vellum came on board to create a leafy outdoor oasis with just the right amount of seclusion.After: See those Japanese maples (Acer palmatum, zones 5 to 8) at the back here? They’re the same as in the previous photo, but you can see how everything else has changed. Flagstones interspersed with ground covers and bordered by delightful purple ‘Rozanne’ cranesbill (Geranium ‘Rozanne’, zones 4 to 9) wend toward not just the maples but a patio with a trio of aluminum panels laser-cut in a tree design that the homeowners’ daughter drew. A petite round water feature and a blanket of low-lying ferns balance the tall rectangular forms.String lights and glowing path lights conjure a magical vibe after the sun goes down.10 Ways to Create a Romantic GardenRegrading made for an easier transition from the sidewalk into the yard, while a new entry gate with an artful custom metal piece continues the tree theme. And the yard brims with color and texture, thanks to plants such as chartreuse Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’, zones 4 to 9), Eternal Fragrance daphne (Daphne x transatlantica ‘Blafra’, zones 5 to 9) and ‘Purple Stem’ sweetbox (Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna ‘Purple Stem’, zones 6 to 8).Native evergreen huckleberries (Vaccinium ovatum) and ‘Winter Sun’ mahonia (Mahonia x media ‘Winter Sun’) elsewhere in the yard draw hummingbirds, butterflies and other winged creatures, enhancing the already idyllic retreat. Read more about this projectBefore PhotoKate BurtSave Photo“After” photos by Jo de Banzie4. Reimagined RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Photographic artist Jo de Banzie and her husbandLocation: Muswell Hill, North LondonSize: About 1,130 square feet (105 square meters) Landscape designer: Jilayne RickardsBefore: Though lacking character and charm, this North London backyard held plenty of promise. As it had already been landscaped, designer Jilayne Rickards worked as much as possible with what was there, including the patio area and gravel seen here. She also sourced additional items secondhand, and nothing went to the landfill.Jilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoAfter: Because the site is shady and most of the soil is tricky clay, the design centers around ground-planted foliage and abundant containers. Here, a sweet little seating area gets shade from an apple tree, home to a playful surprise: a tree house. A dense screen of established black bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra, zones 7 to 11) hides a shed, and new black paint on the existing fence lends depth and an air of mystery.Caution: Bamboo can be invasive; opt for a clumping variety and consult guidelines for your area before planting. (A trench and root barrier keep the bamboo here in check.)10 Garden Nooks That Are Perfect for One or Two PeopleJilayne Rickards Contemporary Garden DesignSave PhotoArtistic elements, including the circular fence cutout seen in the previous photo and a fanciful antique bench here, are sprinkled throughout. Together with the blend of striking succulents, layers of leaves and lovely blossoms, they give the garden an enchanting air.Read more about this project“After” photos by Lepere Studio5. Ranch RomanceYard at a GlanceWho lives here: Steve and Debra CummingsLocation: Santa Paula, CaliforniaSize: About one-fifth of an acre on an 80-acre ranchLandscape architect: Kiesel DesignLandscape installer: Haney LandscapeBefore: Among scraggly trees on an 80-acre avocado ranch in California’s Santa Clara River Valley sat this plain rectangular lawn abutting a livestock pen. The property has been in the owners’ family for generations, and they recently tapped Kiesel Design to turn this area into an outdoor destination filled with visual delights — using Houzz ideabooks to share inspiration.Kiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoAfter: Right about where the dog is keeping a lookout in the previous photo, a double-wide gate now opens to an enclosed garden. Concrete pavers lead from the back of the house to the yard, their staggered design hinting that nothing beyond is simply about getting from point A to point B.Across from the covered deck seen here lies an artistic fountain carved from a sandstone boulder, where birds drink and play. Down the path a bit sits a dining area with seating for six. And farther along, a natural gas fire feature made of Cor-Ten steel and lava rock anchors a seating area that would do a campsite proud. 10 Things to Know About Buying a Fire Pit for Your YardKiesel Design - Landscape ArchitectureSave PhotoPaths made of decomposed granite flow through the yard like waterways. They offer opportunities for walking meditation or for sitting and taking in the views of the planting islands at hand and the Topatopa Mountains in the distance.These two “after” photos show only small portions of the garden, which stretches to about a fifth of an acre. It focuses on water-conscious and pollinator-attracting plantings but includes a variety of blooms too, including roses — all in a vivid palette of purples, oranges, pinks and greens and in a range of stirring scents. Read more about this projectMore on HouzzRead more stories about patiosBrowse thousands of patio photosHire a landscape contractorShop for your outdoor spaces Source link