“Woodland Garden”
Heatherwood Autumn
Bit by bit, the fall colors are emerging here in Heatherwood. They seem to be coming a little late this year. But, each day brings a little more color, bit by bit. In the woodland garden, the red buds and some Japanese maples are transitioning to yellow. The October Glory maples are starting to turn red. And, the skies are a brilliant blue. It is time to go out and enjoy the day!
“Two Zelkovas”
Heatherwood Summer
Four years ago this area was a pasture of grass and weeds. The house and garage below was clearly visible. It is amazing how a few trees, shrubs, perennials, and grass can change the scene. The lawn grass was planted three years ago. The trees and most of the shrubs and perennials were planted two years ago. Several fill in perennials were planted last year. This year we have just sat back and enjoyed this part of Heatherwood.
In the years ahead, the two Zelkova trees will grow and form a natural canopy and “tunnel” between the two planting beds. The trees in the background will get taller and entirely block our neighbor’s garage. The shrubs, ornamental grasses, and perennials will fill in and continue to add color and interest. For now, we sit back and enjoy!
“Ed Wood Japanese Maple”
Heatherwood Summer
The hot direct sunlight brings out the red color to the tips of this Japanese maple. This species has quite a different leaf pattern than the standard palmateum or dissectum varieties of Japanese maples. The leaf itself is huge, about 4 inches. The east-facing side of the maple is protected by its canopy from the scorching summer sun we have been having. The west-facing side of the tree is starting to get brown seared leaves from the harsh afternoon sun.
“Pacific Fire”
Heatherwood Summer
The last couple of weeks have been hotter than Hades. This week has been between 105 and 110 degrees. Today we are suppose to reach 109. This scene in our south east conifer corner looks like it is on fire with all the yellow and reds. We planted the “Pacific Fire” vine maple behind the Adirondack settee three weeks ago. It is showing off its flame-colored leaves. I hope that they don’t get carried away and burn off!
“The Playfield”
Heatherwood Summer
One of our design criteria for the Heatherwood landscape was to create an area for kids to run and play. Our lower lawn is large enough for a little football or wiffleball field or a full size volleyball court. The areas around the lawn do not include any rocks for kids to bang into. The edges also do not include valuable plants that may be damaged. Lawn paths lead to other areas were kids can run and play tag. The lawn is even relatively flat. And if you stay in the area near the background planting area, Mom or Dad can’t see you from the house! If Mom and Dad want to watch the kids play, there is even a place for them to sit with a nice view of the surrounding country side.
“Forest Pansy Redbud Leaf”
Heatherwood Woodland
Many times as I walk through our garden, I just let my imagination wander. I am not looking for anything in particular. But when something catches my eye, I stop and explore with my mind and soul. Many times, after pausing for a few moments, I just move on. Sometimes I become captured and just let my mind wander.
I saw this pretty bright new leaf on the tip of a branch. My eyes followed it up along the branch as it led up to the trunk of the tree. The heart seemed to be beating as it softly fluttered in the breeze. I imagined it feeding its blood along the branches to the other leaves and softly back up to the soul of the tree. It is wonderful what imagination can do! Look around, look up to the clouds, and dream. It is a wonderful way to enjoy a moment!
“Forest Pansy Redbud Leaves”
Heatherwood Woodland
The early morning sun backlit these Forest Pansy redbud leaves causing them to shout out, “Look at me, look at me!” An early morning walk is always a pleasure. Things just seem to sparkle when the sun first glances over them. The special sunlight is fleeting, I have to be on my toes, time is short. It is time to make the most out of every moment.
“Meadow Abstract”
Heatherwood Summer
This looks like we are giving the meadow flowers a bath shower. We are just watering them. Temperatures are getting hot. The forecast is to break 100 degrees next week. We need to make sure everything is well watered by the time the extreme temperatures hit. We hope we have been watering enough to have built up a enough moisture to get the plants through the upcoming scorcher.
“Color in the Meadow”
Heatherwood Summer
Fourth of July was a beautiful day here in Eastern Washington. After a morning cup of coffee sitting out in the garden, I took off for a stroll with my camera. Everywhere I looked summer color was brightly shining throughout the garden. In this little spot in our meadow we have orange red-hot pokers, purple bee balm, red bee balm, purple salvia, white daisies, yellow yarrow, yellow red-hot pokers, and various shades of green grasses. We peacefully gaze and enjoy the wonderful gift in front of us.
“Pink & Yellow Yarrow”
Heatherwood Summer
I have walked by this spot many, many times. What I normally see is a wide angle view of pretty flowers at my feet, green grass and a meadow expanding in front of me, our and our neighbors’ homes, and the distant ridge surrounding the view. By just moving down to ground level, my perspective completely changes to focus on the beautiful jewels right in front of my face.
Life is similar. So many times I look around and see all the confusion and discomforting things that distract me and cause anxiety. When I settle down and become grounded, I can see and feel the many things that are right with our world. Today, I celebrate Independence Day and reflect and cherish all what independence brings to me.
Happy 4th of July!