The Hungtington Library and Gardens Part 1

As a lover of all things floral, I have been longing to go see the Huntington Library with its beautiful botanical gardens.  I must admit, it didn't disappoint.  After a friend introduced me to Filoli in San Mateo, a few years ago, I discovered how much I loved exploring the gardens and seeing the detailed architecture and antique furnishings in person.

While doing some research one day, I stumbled upon the Huntington Library website and knew it was a must see for me.  Of particular interest of course, the European art and furnishings collection, rose garden, Shakespeare garden, and the potager style herb garden.  I love gardens in the Old English and French styles. However, I was also really quite impressed with the Chinese garden. The reflection of the water, buildings, and landscape was quite lovely.  The Japanese garden with its bridge was another favorite.  

What most surprised me by all of these gardens was their size.  The Huntington gardens span 120 acres of land and each garden does feel quite large.  The old buildings are beautiful to look at with all their architectural details and history.  The buildings in the Chinese and Japanese  gardens were crafted true to their historical style which adds to the beauty and authenticity of the gardens.  Here are a few pictures of the rose, Shakespeare and herb gardens. I really enjoyed my visit to the Huntington Library, and I can't wait to go back hopefully in Spring.

A Rose Index

Flower beds introducing the rose garden.

Foxglove close up.

In the Rose garden.

Rose arbor with box hedge.

Rose arbor close up.

Column of roses with rose garden fountain.

Rose garden fountain.

Another view of the rose garden.

Not sure the name of this tree, but it was beautiful with its hanging pink flowers.

Shakespeare garden with statuary.

Potager entrance

Herb garden obelisk.

Potager/herb garden.

Take care,

Christina

New Year Home Goals

With the dropping of the ball in times square, the signal sounds, and it is out with the old and into the new. I love the idea of new beginnings.  You are never too old to learn something new, and it is never too late to begin again or start over.  That said, for me the new year is a reminder to update my list of goals, for the upcoming year.  Every January, I take out my old goals, check off what I've accomplished, add a few more and see what is or isn't working.  I list different categories of the areas that I want to improve.  Your home should be the same, it is another personal goal category.

To start, I suggest making  a list of the rooms/spaces in your home that need attention.  Here are three key things to keep in mind when making your list:

1. Clear Out Clutter: It is a great time to clear out the closets and your home of anything that isn't working. Then, donate it to your local thrift store. Sometimes the biggest improvement you can make is by eliminating what isn't working.   The nice thing about lightening up your closets and spaces, is it leaves less to worry about. De-cluttering helps you stay focused on the things that you really love and use.

2. Repairs: Next, does anything need mending, repair or a fresh coat of paint?  Make a note of what could use a little attention.  Don't forget those forgotten areas like the insides of closets, drawers, the garage, outside on the front porch etc.  Maybe a fresh coat of paint in the pantry would really add an unexpected touch and brighten your day.  It is amazing how a little touch up paint goes a long way.

3. Replenish: Is it time for a new shower curtain or new sets of sheets and towels?  Maybe it is as simple as adding a new set of pillows for the upcoming Spring season. After the old stuff is cleared away and repairs made, you might need to purchase replacements to replenish your supplies.  Perhaps it is time for a new piece of furniture for added storage.  By taking a close look at each room/space you can see what needs improving, refreshing or restocking.

Once you have identified the main areas that you need to work on, you can break down each category into action steps.  You could even make a time line and try to complete a few items off the list a week.  As you complete your action steps, each room will be in great condition and ready for the new year.

Take care,

Christina