Everyone has their own idea of what a backyard paradise should be. Last week I had the opportunity to see and enjoy a very beautiful and unusual backyard. My boyfriend Rob’s father and stepmother have created a haven of nature and serenity in their backyard. It’s absolutely delightful. Their attention to detail and their love of nature is evident in every garden paver, windchime, bird house and flower planted.
Their yard has been a work in progress over the last eighteen years according to Bob. Their love of gardening and their love of each other is evident throughout the yard, particularly in viewing and experiencing the charm of Windows, Gretchen’s backyard cottage. Bob spent two months building this delightful cottage from wood he salvaged. This amazing little one room cottage looks like a sweet old fashioned home. The interior contains a reading chair, small table, shelves, and treasures that Gretchen loves. The windows can be thrown open to hear the sounds of birds and for evenings there are electric lights and an old fashioned heater for cool temperatures.
As a writer I was just thrilled to see such a beautiful backyard haven. I would love to create such a paradise for myself. As I sat on the cottage porch I was mesmerized by the beauty of the yard and the sweetness of this cottage Gretchen treasures. On the porch are little touches that are meaningful to Gretchen, things she and Bob discovered on trips or hikes. Bob’s effort in creating this cottage is especially evident in the small details; beautiful windows, old style door knobs, a weathered tin roof, aged weathered wood and beautiful touches that make this cottage a true backyard paradise. As a woman who loves creative spaces I learned wonderful lessons from Gretchen’s cottage; start with what you love, details add warmth and begin with materials that make you feel good. Using these ideas will be the beginning of creating a backyard paradise you’ll long treasure.