Living here in Southern California...I am able to treat and style my gardens as outdoor rooms and extensions of our interior living spaces.Over the years I have honed some styling ideas that are not only aesthetic...but highly functional as well.
I keep several large brimmed hats outside...always on the ready for some impromptu gardening.Theses beauties add some romantic garden flourish...while providing needed sun protection when in use.
My favorite mornings are those spent coffee in hand...in any of my garden rooms...I love the mix of garden styling... and the spectacular creationsof mother nature.
My darling cherubs...who are starting to show the marks of time...are all accessorized with crowns and necklaces... while my hydrangeas have spent the summer climbing to greet them.
This year...besides wanting the garden to be a romantic spot to be...I decided I wanted to try growing some produce as well.Giving as our yard and gardens are stamp size here in Southern California..I wanted to integrate this into the garden aesthetically.Tomatoes have been planted in antique carts and planters... staked high with rod iron obelisks
And I must say, they are all thriving...I actually have tomatoes of all types ripening for the picking.This is the first year I have stayed attentive enough in the garden... to see them to bountiful fruition.Amazing what constant attention can reap in the garden.As I have mentioned before...This is the first year I would consider myself a true gardener.Even though my garden has been gorgeous for years...up until now I was more of a planter.If something died... it was just quickly replaced.
This year my goal is garden patience... and regular attentive nuturing.
Lemons and oranges have also been planted...as a nod to SOCAL's rich citrus history.I am amazed at the amount of fruit put out by my trees.
As I have mentioned on this post ...I keep our xlarge farm table always dressed for impromptu al fresco summer dinners.
This week I was able to finish my last planter redo...in the lounging corner.These loungers are dressed all summer with outdoor pillows and big quilts...Always set and welcoming for chilly mornings or evenings.
Up in my 'little tree house deck'An outside daybed made up of an air mattress, blankets and pillow...is always on the ready for an afternoon read. 
It is this view from above that is the most fun...
as well as piles of cozy throws and trays of candles...all waiting for summer nights.Now as we are approaching the middle of August...I hope to spend a little more time savoring and enjoying my backyard summer styling....before this summer... is too a memory.
As always dear friendsI wish you love and joyas you style your life
