Spring is a time of new beginnings, with sprouting plants and blooming flowers that inspire all designers to break out of the winter doldrums. Pantone has identified in it's fashion colour report for spring 2009 many bright colours for the top ten list.

Now that the hustle and bustle of the holiday season is over we can get back to the subtle excitement of the natural world. I get such a sense of hope when the first snowdrops start to appear and I begin to dream of the fresh green leaves and spring flowers that encourage me out of my winter hibernation.

Now that the large amount of snow has almost melted away, I can begin to start to think of the spring season ahead.  It could be an interesting start, as many plants sustained somewhat of a rough west coast winter this year so far.  I have began to notice the buds on the Magnolia trees and am anxious for the blooms to begin.  You can check out a website on the spring flowers to come at http://home-and-garden.webshots.com

Christmas is on its way, and the snow this year sure makes it feel the the Christmas season.   I wish you all a season's greetings and Happy New year.  If you are looking for an exciting winter garden activity you might want to consider the Bloedel Conservatory.  Vandusen Botanical Gardens Festival of Lights is a great way to spend a night embracing the Holiday season.  C

I am preparing for my first winter craft fair this year.  I have begun building some great planters, with winter greenery, evergreen plantings, and spring bulbs.  It is an approach for a great Christmas gift, or great invitation to your winter guests when they come to your front door.  Some winter planter ideas and tips.

Enjoying some blooms indoors during the winter months.  Amaryllis 101

The ornamental grasses are in full glow this time of year.  Their beautiful seed heads, along with the autumn colored flowers like Rudbeckia, Echinacea, and many more.  As the rainy season is about to begin and the feeling of stepping outside becomes somewhat of a struggle, there is a great website providing walks all around the city for any day of the year rain or shine.

My garden projects seem to be going great, the sense of life in the space after all construction is completed and new plants are growing, flowering, and filling the space with color and texture, the client sees the finished result and the design comes to life.  The growing season is upon us and once again, nature is remarkable.  

Summer holidays for most are approaching and that may mean family trips or relaxing at home.  I came upon a great website that provides ways to get active in your garden.  It talks about Vancouver community gardens, urban gardens, healthy gardens, food producing gardens, etc.

Now that we can all enjoy as nature comes alive and the plants begin to bloom in great color.  Our city has some great garden walks and events all year around, but if you are like me, spring seems to the be exciting time to get outside and enjoy nature.  VanDusen gardens has great events for the family or just for the garden lover.  Also some great ways to enjoy all of the scenery and plants in the city, there are numerous walking tours available at the