What does your mailbox say about you?

These are a few of the mailboxes in our neighborhood that I pass every day. Each of these homeowners has obviously made a commitment to keeping them well maintained. 

So...What does your mailbox say about you?




These white blooms of silver lace vine are stunning in late summer.

 


This homeowner used 'Forest pansy' red bud for strong contrast with the nice, earthy buff color of their brick. They have also planned the next season's color with day lilies waiting to bloom.



Not only did this homeowner design a delightful color combination and a very welcoming mailbox statement, the easy to read numbers are definitely appreciated when trying to find an address.

 The mailbox is one of the things that creates a first impression. Unfortunately, in some cases, that is not always the image we have in mind.

So, go outside and look at your mailbox area. Does it reflect your character? Do you like what it says about you?

Creating a nice mailbox area does not have to be a huge undertaking, so, why do we keep putting it off? It is one of the smaller projects that make a lot of difference to your home's curb appeal. Too busy to maintain a garden around your mailbox?

Clean and neat is also very welcoming especially if you have no time to maintain a garden. This homeowner added details like a border on the driveway and updated a newly laid stone culvert. Now they have easy maintenance and and great look.

P.S. So, everytime I pass one of these pretty entrances, I am going to remind myself that this is the year for mine to be updated too.

Does your garden have good bones?

Wintertime is a great time to look at the bones of your garden and draw a design to improve your outdoor garden space.

Pay close attention to areas that do not drain. Wet areas can create problems for growing plants as well as attracting moles and mosquitoes.

Center a birdbath in your garden and give the birds a clear path to their favorite watering hole as well as allowing you to have a bird's eye view.

Believe it or not, your herb garden can be as beautiful in winter as it is in other seasons and birds love to peck around at fallen seeds.

A focal point will bring some interest when foliage and color are absent. Children love to have someone to keep a careful watch over their garden at night. This is kane. His brother Able is in the nearby butterfly garden.

A misty frost creates an ethereal feeling on this outdoor trellis. Very calming.

 How do you begin to create a design, you say? Take it a step at a time. For now, just spend a few minutes today looking at your garden bones.