Being open

We opened our garden for the annual Hospice gardens scheme once again today. A beautifully sunny day, which has resulted in a white "halo" on my chest where my necklace sat, protecting me from the sun which was shining down with some enthusiasm!

Once again, our hearts were warmed by the positive comments from folk who visited. We had felt it wasn't "up to scratch" this year, what with the heat, no rain, and both of us feeling a bit overwhelmed by all that needed to be done beforehand; there were too many bare patches of earth, things planted have not thrived, and fewer things have been planted that we planned. One of my failings is being seduced by tempting pots in garden centres which then languish as I ponder where to put them! However, the day dawned, folk were kind, and we have reached the end of it having welcomed over 100 people and had some delightful conversations along the way. 

So, just a few pics for you to enjoy a little of what they saw, while we sit down and contemplate the pleasure of sharing this space

You can see why I got a little bit pink!

The good man does a very fine line in beautifully planted pots

we are very pleased with our new bespoke pond cover, no more fish lost to the heron we hope

one of the lovely dahlias darling daughter gave the man for Christmas last year

As I was crouching above the pond to look across the garden I sensed a delicate fluttering and heard a tiny high pitched peep. If you look very closely at centre left, below the peak of the pond cover, you'll see a little goldcrest just about to land on the top level of the waterfall to take a few sips of water

To paraphrase Christopher Lloyd, if you are out in the garden enough, the birds will take no more notice of you than if you were a sheep or a cow. 

Dixter delight

We are so lucky to live within easy driving distance of this lovely garden. This week we had a very pleasurable visit from some members of my dear heart's family, including the recipient of this quilt, who has now grown into the most delightful little person who kept us very busy on the afternoon she and her parents were with us. My darling girl came round as well, and definitely fell in love!

The following day, four of us drove through the winding Sussex countryside to visit Great Dixter. The weather was wonderfully bright and breezy, and despite a brief and very threatening looking selection of clouds, it stayed dry and warm and the garden was at its wild and wonderful best.

The planting there, in particular in the areas bordered by yew hedging, is both tall and dense, which means you wander through, perpetually surprised and inspired by a new and interesting combination of plants. The style could be called relaxed or chaotic depending on your taste. I find the sense of enclosure creates a wonderful aura of mystery and timelessness. You are in a jewel box of colour, scent, movement and sound with occasional glimpses of the red brick and tiles of the house itself. For a change of view you can find your way out to areas of meadow planting and the arresting topiary yews. It is a space I could cheerfully spend many hours in, just watching, listening and absorbing. 

I thought you might like to share some of the pleasures