BakerBites

Yes, it does look much, much better. We've had quite a bit of rain which has been great to bring everything to a lush, green, beautiful abundance. 

From the front, the vinca minor beds along the sidewalk have been reshaped a bit and I added twirling butterfly perennials in the curved part. The vinca minor is doing better this year, and folks say the third year it should really take off. I had to add another french drain -- I don't know if there's an underground spring or what, but there is plenty of water. The ferns around the porch have taken off -- just beautiful. Dogwoods along sidewalk were so pretty and covered with blooms.

The lot next to me is empty for now (nice) and is covered in hardwoods. So, even when there is a neighbor, because they have to be on the other side of the little wet weather branch, I doubt I'll see anything in the summer time but green. I added a mulch path on both sides -- one going to the garden gate and one around to the other side of the house.

My favorite area continues to be the little enclosed side yard/garden. I've planted peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, onions, and various herbs. The thyme leftover from last year is taking over the raised beds. I'll have to dig it out -- but not this weekend. I also added some grass in this space which I mow with the little Scott's reel mower. Good exercise. The climbing hydrangeas are working their way up the wall and the ferns in this area do well. My peonies were full of blooms -- and this is only their second year.

Villa Escaliere, view of the balcony, of this fantastic villa situated just a bit north of Cannes in the hills close to Valbonne and Grasse. I've never stayed in a private villa (or a private anything) when traveling and I must say, this was FANTASTIC. Villa came with chaffeur and chef (and wasn't as much money as you are perhaps thinking).

We hiked several days -- the best was to Coursegoules and the top of the range along the hills looking down at this quaint little village. The small villages which must be explored by foot present a lifestyle that looks so appealing -- coffee or espresso in a street side cafe, vegetables from the market fresh and gorgeous, conversations and laughs over a neighborly bacci game. What could be better?

Room with a view anyone? This is the view from my comfortable little room -- at night you could look across the valley and see all the twinkling lights of Grasse, Valbonne and other little villages. The Villa is nestled in an old olive grove. I'd never paid enough attention to olive trees. Truly magnificent and it seems almost impossible to kill (just give me a chance).

My favorite place of all, the Chapel of the Penitents decorated by Folon. The sculptures are his, the murals and mosaics designed by him but executed by other artists. This is the most special place. Very small, but such a spiritual little place.