Early morning light washes across the garden, bathing the small patio and new plantings in gold. This photo captures a tapestry of leaf shapes and textures, sunlight and shadows. One of the most satisfying things about the way we garden is the ever changing beauty of each small patch of scenery.

A few steps beyond the rocking chairs is another paved area where we enjoy having cook outs several times a week from April through September. It's difficult to remember when there were only weeds and a a few neglected patches of lawn under these trees... but sure enough, when we moved to the cottage in 1996 that's exactly what we faced. Here's where I pause to give credit where credit is due. Papa moved every pebble and paver, dug the fish pond and planted most of what you're seeing. My share of the gardening comes in much smaller projects. I care for the herbs, water the containers, sweep the paths and enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!

There must be about four or five trucks full of top-soil, pea-gravel and pavers in this small paradise. I'm thankful for each and every inch of it, and I acknowledge every ache and pain Papa earned making it so.o.o. beautiful.

To be continued......