Order Versus Chaos

It's been a rainy summer, something we rarely see in these parts. We might have rainy springs, but once summer rolls around, it usually turns hot and dry. Well, so far this summer the weather has been just right. Not too hot, and frequent pop up storms to keep the lawn green. It's just so rare we don't quite know how to act without constantly dragging the hose around the yard! But I've got to say, it's much appreciated. The garden has literally never looked better.

Perhaps it's because this is the first summer in many years that I am not working, so I have plenty of time to work on it. Or maybe it's because I've been tweaking it, and thinning out some of the clutter. Either way, I'm pleased with the progress. Honestly, it almost feels "done".

Done? What a concept. I dare say it's a rare gardener who says her garden is done. Oh I'm sure I'll find spots to work on soon, but I'm actually trying very hard not to over work it. I'm enjoying the garden a little tidier these days, with a little less exuberance.

Perhaps this is a nod to my husband's love of order and neatness. I am not quite as tidy as he is, but almost. When I was working, I would come in and frantically begin to clear the mess and chaos left by others. When I walk into my orderly home, I breathe a sigh of relief. It is only when things are in order that I can truly relax.

But that same attitude is harder to implement in my gardening. I want every flower I see! Now I am not totally cured, by any means. 

But I am trying harder. I'm giving up the cottage garden look that I enjoy in photos. I just can't seem to get that look without it looking like a mess. Besides, my home is not a cottage. 

The biggest challenge was landscaping my new patio. This was my chance to implement my new way of thinking, and I think I did it pretty well. I have no real training in landscaping other than reading books and garden blogs. But I still know most of the salient points. The most important point was knowing when to stop adding things. Heck, that's always been my trouble!

Still, don't come by and expect everything to be perfect. It's a long way from that! But still, I'd be happy to show you around Robin's Nest.