Where Did the Time Go?

I had hoped, even thought that this weekend would be semi-productive either in the yard or in the bathroom. The weather here has been remarkably beautiful, spring has definitely sprung, and working in the yard seemed like a wonderful way to spend a few of my early morning hours - even my whole day. My brother, however thwarted that plan by insisting that I show him around Buffalo and Toronto this weekend ... so, there are no updated pictures of my own landscaping, just a few inspiration pictures I keep for when the progress actually starts.

Our pergola will be painted SW Roycroft Vellum, the trim color of the garage. Scott had suggested that we stain the pergola or keep it in it's natural state to gray with time. Although the gray with time patina did sound beautiful - I've let him keep all the wood in the house natural, and the garden can be my place to have wood painted! This pergola (above) and it's irregular shaped slate floor is gorgeous - and a wonderful way of proving that painted pergola's really do have a look all their own, very chic.

Our brick is reclaimed, and it's important for me to use these beautiful pieces. Once used in Buffalo, NY to create multi-family apartment buildings and garages, these bricks were a part of the foundation of this area, and they have some wonderful history - not to mention fantastic patina! I may not have a connection to these bricks personally, but their age and meaning will add a charm that won't be matched to our patio and back yard garden. Above, the herringbone pattern in this walkway was the inspiration for our patio.

Scott and I have contemplated using natural stone (flagstone and slate slab) in other garden structures, and outdoor kitchen ideas; like a fireplace or cooking/prep area inside of the pergola. I for one love the combination of the two especially when the brick is aged or discolored in areas and the stone is covered in moss. The picture above shows how well brick and flagstone can work together in one space.

And finally, the last picture in this post, and also in my catalog of pergolas and patios. There are so many things that this picture captures. When I look at it I feel calm, and filled with peace. The sound of the water from the rock pond, the smell of the moon flower ... the taste of lemonade on a warm and blissful summer evening.

For me, (us), building this pergola and patio is more than just extending our outdoor space, it's more than winning the unwritten garden competition our neighbors participate in every summer, it's the creation of a space where summer days and fall evenings can be spent relaxing, restoring, and refilling - on love, friendship, and lemonade.