Backyard Renovation: Part 5 - Seating Area

Once the boulder retaining walls were in place, work began on the seating area in the part of the property still "up on the hill." This was an addition to our original plans for the backyard and now I'm so excited for it!

Stone slab steps were brought in and laid into the slope.

 Then flat, irregular shaped stones were placed in a circle to create the seating area.

 And the remaining boulders were placed into the slope - both decorative and functional.

The end result is so beautiful. I can't wait to sit up here and enjoy the view once the project is all finished.

Next, the plants go in, then sprinklers, lighting and finally grass! We are almost there!

See the progression here:
Part 1: Tree Removal
Part 2: Retaining Wall
Part 3: The Fence

Part 4: Boulder Retaining Wall

My Garden Wish List (thanks to the Philadelphia Flower Show)

Last week I was lucky enough to go to the Philadelphia Flower Show. I had never been and so when I saw a local florist was organizing a bus trip to the show, I jumped at the opportunity. This year's theme was "Springtime in Paris." Floral and landscape displays, award winning plants, miniature scenes using miniature plants, "paintings" that used only pressed flowers and plants and jewelry made from plant parts - the show had it all.

I came away from the show with my wish list of gardens and garden accents for this year:

1. An outdoor kitchen and dining area:

2. A majestic bed to sleep on under the stars:

3. New lawn ornaments to greet friends when they visit:

 

 

4. A fern tree:

5. A carousel for my kids to play on:

6. Some new artwork:

"Painting" made of pressed plants and flowers

7. A new use for my old car:

8. A gorgeous, handmade necklace:

Made only from: Oleander seed pod, Maple pods, Beautyberry, Eucalyptus seeds, Blackberry Lily, Pea, Navy Bean, Lentil, Barley, Crinkle Leaf Plant, Oregano, Mustard seeds, Rush

 9. A garden house for visiting fairies:

 10. A bigger window box:

11. A landing strip for my model airplane:

And maybe after I've finished installing all these things, I'll enjoy a lovely piece of cake:

Ah, la joie de vivre!