Some new ideas

I have an area under my deck that is in need of a make-over.
On either side of the concrete patio that is my walk-out, are 2 huge concrete blocks. Retaining blocks, if you will, as my yard slopes downwards. There prevent a deluge of rain from collecting on that walk-out area.
They also make for a not so eye pleasing area which is in need of something to camouflage that area.

I have a beautiful Oranges and Lemons rose shrub near that area that might compliment a blue clematis nicely.

Thing is, I have to create a trellis of sorts for support as I feel the deck post alone may not be enough.
Luckily I have a wooded area in which I can forage and create a trellis of my own. I also came across an idea that used fishing wire for a trellis though I have visions of myself becoming entangled, knots appearing in the line out of nowhere and some few choice words being yelled loudly. Hmmm...might stay away from that one.

In doing some research, I discovered a few really pretty blue clematis'. I prefer the deeper blue-violet hue. Here are 2 I really like:



Romantika Clematis

Clematis Franziska Maria

Oh, did I mention, I'd like to a add a forsythia somewhere in the mix also. I have 3 in the lower end of the garden and love them.



I think this color combination might work well.

It's officially on my list of things to accomplish in my garden.

The list grows longer...

Half the interest of a garden is the constant exercise of the imagination.  ~Mrs. C.W. Earle, Pot-Pourri from a Surrey Garden, 1897

More dogs sick as FDA steps up scrutiny of chicken jerky pet treats

More dogs sick as FDA steps up scrutiny of chicken jerky pet treats


This disturbs me.
Not only because the products can make our pets sick, but how many people really check the labels of the treats they buy for their pets

I'll admit, I wasn't an avid label reader until a friend of my mothers, a vet tech, advised her to never purchase any kind of treat or food item for her dog if it was made in China.
I paid attention after that and closely monitored what treats I would buy, reading all the labels.

I started to look up recipes online for home-made treats, did my research on what foods are best for dogs & cats & what ingredients would make tasty & healthy snacks for them.
The simplest of ingredients usually popped up, chicken, rice, pasta, fresh vegetables, baby food...

Granted, I will buy Shelbs the occasional treat; always made in the USA though it be slightly pricier.

She's worth it, she's my furry 4 legged child after all.
One of 3 whom I love dearly & will continue to feed them the best I can offer.