Softening the Hardscapes

Here in Ireland, most houses have concrete or stone footpaths surrounding the houses. I came from dry, hot Texas where damp is not a common problem, so I was accustomed to flower beds against the house. Not to worry, my solution for our 120 year old cottage was to add loads of potted plants and window boxes for a soft, natural, colourful effect!

  

Feed me, Seymour!!

I've been growing hops for a few years now, but this year is a bit different. I've got my usual plants growing up an arch in my back garden--

But this summer I have another hops plant in my new greenhouse. What a difference! This plant is so lush and full, and it's spreading all over the greenhouse. I'm reminded of the man eating plant in "Little Shop of Horrors" that sings, "Feed me, Seymour!!"

I can't wait to harvest this vine once the hops comes are formed. I don't make beer, but I do love the hops garlands that decorate pubs and cottages in the south of England. 

I'll post an update when this vine is ready for harvest!

Dont Throw it Out!

UPDATE-- The finished look.

Here is the BEFORE pics--

 You can call me crazy. It wouldn't be the first time. I just look at things differently than most people, as my hubby Seamus can tell you! 😁 

Anyway, I have always looked for ways to re-use things, years before it was popular. I LOVE seeing something serving a purpose that it was never meant to do. 

Having said that, I am ABSOLUTELY and UNAPOLOGETICALLY putting this piece in my new greenhouse! Crazy, because we all know that wood furniture doesn't fare well in damp places. But I love doing it anyway, and here is why.  Pieces like this have often been gifted to me or I've bought them and then determined that it's too far gone to restore or upcycle. But it's just too lovely to throw out!

This piece is weathered, worn,and missing moulding and veneer from years of being in a shed before it was given to us. If the damp is eventually going to take it anyway, why not let it happen in a place where the traces of its former beauty can be appreciated? 

Today I found it had a secret drawer, full of old Christmas cards, recipes and trinkets. Someone once loved it enough to keep their mementos in it. I love to imagine the history behind it, and I'm going to love all its imperfections as much as the original owner loved it in it's perfect condition. 

So yes, it's going in the greenhouse. Because it's quirky and unexpected. Because I'm  quirky and unexpected! 😂

More pictures to follow soon!