California is still in a drought and we are hoping for a lot of rain this winter. Until this happens, it is really important for each one of us to conserve water in every possible way. Well, that doesn't mean that we should allow our landscapes to shrivel and dry up. There are several plants can grow to be lush without requiring much water. In this blog post, I've rounded up some drought tolerant green gardens that totally amaze me. I also learnt that succulents are not the only plants that are … [Read more...]
Exotic Places To Dine
Before you know it, summer will quickly begin winding down. For many of you, back-to-school stresses and shopping trips will diminish the amount of family time. So, before the chaos of September arrives, take a break from your normal routine and embark on a journey to an exotic and new destination! Visits to places such as Bali, Dubai, Africa, and Morocco are rare but unforgettable trips for you and your loved ones! We live on a beautiful but vast planet; while most of us aren't lucky enough … [Read more...]
Colorful Outdoor Rooms
If you are looking to convert your patio, porch, backyard or balcony to a retreat, I have some fabulous ideas! Sometimes, I ponder how a dash of color transforms a boring space to something spectacular. Color is magical and has a way to either calm or awaken the senses. And, while we all have our preferences when it comes to picking a shade, you can't really go wrong when you mix and match your favorite ones. It is always nice to be able to add more space to a home. A balcony or a patio … [Read more...]
Pretty Picnic Spots In California
On the beach, at a park, or just in the backyard -- you can just casually stretch your feet, bite into a sandwich, and have a picnic! All you need is your family and friends, favorite snacks, and a nice picnic blanket. Gathering casually and unwinding is the best part of any picnic, and if you can do that in a scenic spot, that's the most ultimate picnic! Do you agree with me? Just scroll down and you will see what I mean. I'm sure most of you fondly remember Alamo Park from ABC's "Full House" … [Read more...]
Hiking At Mission Peak
Hello, everyone! We live close to beautiful mountains, and the tallest one is called the "Mission Peak". The hike up to Mission Peak is three miles long and 2,000 feet in elevation. It is one of the most visited hikes in the Bay area. The payoff is quite amazing at the summit. On a good day, you can get a panoramic view of San Fransisco, Oakland, San Jose and maybe Sierra Nevada! There is a pole at the top to climb where one can pose the victory. Well, you might have to stand in a line for your … [Read more...]
Drought Tolerant Landscapes
We are facing a severe drought in California, and can bet we aren't alone. In my neighborhood, very few homes have lawns with lush grass. Unfortunately, most of the lawns are dry and dead, and many neighbours are gradually transforming their yards into drought tolerant landscapes. It is quite amazing to witness how the green lawns get converted to something that is so breathtaking. The alternatives to dead lawns come in so much variety these days, making it harder to create one. That's why I … [Read more...]
Beautiful Walking Trails And A Product Review
Hello everyone! Bay Area, California is known for beautiful walking trails. And, the weather now is just perfect to go for long walks. With a lot of walking, comes foot aches, leg aches, etc., especially, if you don't take care of your feet. I received an amazing pair of gel inserts for my shoes made by Syono to review just in time for summer. As soon as I opened it, I felt the soft, and squishy gel and I knew immediately that it will feel comfortable to walk on it. I learnt that these gel … [Read more...]
Welcoming Spring With Wildflowers
There is so much to look forward to when the weather transitions from winter to spring! For me, the highlight of spring is seeing the beautiful wildflowers. They make my day - especially when I find them scattered across random places. Mother Nature is certainly at her best when she converts dry landscapes into colorful flowers. What amazes me is how these wildflowers manage to survive in nature the whole season and come back again the same time year after year for us to enjoy. I can't stop … [Read more...]
Colorful Birds In Love
Mother nature has a lot to offer us. Colorful birds, one of the most beautiful creatures to exist, have always served as inspiration for me. Whether it's their color combinations or the way they interact with each other in nature, I'm always fascinated by them. Valentine's day is approaching soon, and here's a page to keep love in the air. I found this article rather interesting - Do birds live together for life?. In reality, there are both kinds - monogamous birds that remain together “until … [Read more...]
Winter Gardens
I've lived in Rochester, New York and Germantown, Maryland before moving to the Bay Area here in California. One of my favorite hobbies used to be looking for splashes of colorful flowers amidst white snow! I miss this terribly, even if I feel fortunate to enjoy everything else California has to offer me. I bet that several of you are currently experiencing snowfall and clean, frosty landscapes. Isn't it amazing to see such beautiful, vibrant flowers thrive in sub zero temperatures? Sure makes … [Read more...]
Celebrating Fall Harvest With Beautiful Scarecrows
Fall has officially started on September 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere! I can't wait to spot scarecrows! I want to see beautiful scarecrows like the ones I have presented here. I will most likely see them in harvest festivals, pumpkin patches and outside some homes. Well, I hope this collection will get you to notice them as well.. and appreciate the harvest season. A time of year when crops are ripe and ready to be gathered. I am also looking forward to family fun activities such as … [Read more...]
Decor By The Door Bell
Have you ever thought about adding container planters by your door bell? Your front porch is where your guests arrive, and it sets an impression about your home. It does not matter if this space is big or small, as I am sure there is room for a planter. In this page, I have a few stunning ideas that will create a welcoming front yard right by the door bell. I totally fell in love with the color combination of the plants and planters because they bring in character and warmth to any home. Do you … [Read more...]