it was a bright and sunny morning

The early morning was spent taking time to enjoy the window boxes and being outdoors before the wind and rain of Isaac comes knocking at the door.

Overall, I was very happy with the window boxes. This was my first year with them.  Even with the tropical heat and humidity, they are still lush and blooming.

All my little baby plants are coming along nicely and I am very pleased with the variegated lemon tree. Two tropical peach trees were planted this spring and I am amazed that they doubled in size. I think there will be peaches this spring. I opted for fruit trees in the front yard instead of the standard crepe myrtles and other flowering trees.

Lots of projects still left to do with my little beach cottage but it is coming along. This winter, my big project is to redo the front sunroom but it will be a big expensive project. The windows are covered for the upcoming storm because they are old and not impact resistant.

I also am thinking of ideas for the entry and sidewalk to the house. There are also plans for a path that leads around to the back yard and more plants and...there's always something. 

In the one year that I have had this cottage, there has been so many changes it's nearly mind numbing.

Before:

Today:

Everyone told me it would be a mistake to paint the brick. I think it made all the difference and I love the dark color.

Comments

[paula c]

patty, I LOVE painted brick in this color. You made the whole house look unified. Just perfect!
paula

[susi]

i agree - painting the brick was the right choice - and I love the color combo!

[Brian Kasstle]

Your home is beautiful! I hope your safe during Isaac.

Thinking of you.

[Bobbie Duran]

Love the color and your landscape looks great.

[Leslie]

I think the brick looks great that color. Brick may be nice and natural but it looks too orangey to me. It's neat to see a pic of the entire thing since you mostly post specific areas. Doesn't even look like FL in that last pic. Not a palm tree in sight. Looks kinda like where I grew up in Mich. Love the picket fence.

[Debra]

It's beautiful-and so are the window boxes.