Backyard Sanctuary

Over the years we have been able to create a backyard atmosphere of serenity and seclusion.  The fences are covered with a vine that adds height to the fence and added privacy.  The deep greenery cools the air and keeps the city noises at bay.  In addition to the two original trees planted seventy plus years ago along the edges of the yard, we have added trees for shade.  The biggest tree in the middle of the yard, a  volunteer sapling which had to come out, was growing up between the house and the air conditioner. So my husband determinded to dig it up, but it came with no root ball.  Although we were not optomistic about the tree's survival, we planted it in the middle of the yard.  It has thrived and now provides abundant shade throughout the yard offering a shady spot to settle in any time of the day.

 The focal point of the yeard, a small fish pond nestles under the shade of this tree edged with flagstone, planted with water lilies, water hyacinth and a water grass.  Gold fish in varying sizes and colors ranging from pure white to liquid gold dart among the floating greenery.  A watering can with a begonia and a tipped bucket spilling out impatiens brighten the edges of the pond. Large red bolders tumble in groups of two and three for additional accents at three curves of the pond.  At the water's edge a ceramic cat lounges, dipping its paw into the water.  A small table with a luxurious Boston fern and white Andrionack chair sit by the pond inviting a moment of repose. 

Flower beds fill the edges of this shady retreat with color, a feast for the eyes.  Watering cans of various sizes decorate the yard.  One can hangs for a shepherd's crook overflowing with pink and burgandy impatiens.  Others sit amongst  flowers ready to supply a refreshing drink to the flowers at any time. I located one in my mother-in-law's garage, long out of service and showing years of use.  We have found others at antique stores for a total of six.  White iron plant stands of different sizes and shapes hold flower pots up above the greenery to increase impact. Driftwood from the ranch provides a change of pace from the rocks and foliage. Two windmills, one a wooden dutch replica and one a minature ranch windmill signal the changing breezes.  An Indian Trail of Tears weathervane anchors the west end of the pond,  An old red barn birdhouse hangs from a large arch in the corner of the flowerbeds.  A victorian house birdhouse sits sedately on a white iron stand near the hydrangea and an old barnwood bird house hangs near the back door. The steps into the kitchen through French doors from the back yard are loaded with pots of flowers and house plants bringing the beauty of the backyard  right to the kitchen as well.

All of these points of interest and beauty offer a refreshing spot for daily lunches in the yard or for time to unwind at the end of the day while watching the fish in their evening feeding frenzy.  In the quiet of an afternoon, reading is a perfect activity. The beauty, coolness and quite of this space provide so much enjoyment.