Spring has sprung in DC, AGAIN! After being teased repeatedly by Mother Nature, it finally feels like spring is here to stay. Tom and I couldn’t be more thrilled!The gardens at our cottage are brimming with fresh growth. Every day brings new discoveries. From muscaris to scillas, there are thousands of bulbs blooming. Yes, thousands! The show started with snowdrops and crocuses on the big lawn, and now, daffies and hyacinths in the borders are doing their things. We are grateful to the previous owners who planted profusely and passionately.

I’ve been a busy bee marking everything as there are plans to redesign, regroup and refresh the gardens. So much for downsizing and simplifying. Actually I told Tom that this property will be lower maintenance, and I intend to keep my promise. Please remind me as you know how I am easily tempted by those manicured gardens – ok? 😉

More to come. In the meantime, here’s a sneak peek….

Well, March certainly is living up to its reputation of “in like a lion and out like a lamb.” Just a couple weeks ago, snow blanketed our Tudor, and spring seemed so distant (with much concern for the fate of the cherry blossoms). BTW, we are spending our last days at the Tudor before moving to the cottage soon.

Today, the snow is gone, and good news: the cherry blossoms made it through just fine. Here is one starting to bloom in front of our new home.

Built in 1928, the original stucco was deteriorating. Tom and I decided it was time to restucco, and hired Robey, Inc to do the work. They have patiently and meticulously worked with us to restucco both the house and garage. We’re so pleased with everything including the texture plus color – a neutral greige. I look forward to sharing closeups of the final work.

Throughout the property, I’ve staked and marked various flowering bulbs. There are many, many clumps of Tete-a-Tete daffodils, which are usually the earliest daffies to bloom.

I am 90% sure the beauties above are Pink Charm daffodils.

Also blooming now are pink, white and purple hyacinths. They are incredibly fragrant.

I couldn’t resist picking a few generous bunches to enjoy inside in our freshly painted entry mudroom. The arched window with leaded glass is one of my favorite features.

H a p p y  S p r i n g !
Loi