A Garden Oasis

Fifty acres filled with perennials, oversized games for children, butterflies, woodlands and quiet hideaways is what Dotti Shetterly has created in Purcellville, Virginia.  The Silverbrook Farm, which is nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Short Hill Mountain, was where Dotti grew up, only to return in 1981 with her now late husband.  Sometimes presiding over weddings held on her grounds, she is a civil celebrant and provides the couple with a unique and beautiful landscape for their memorable day.  Photographed by Helen Norman for Traditional Home, have a look at her 18th century home, garden and creative spaces.  Enjoy and have a delightful Saturday. (To read the entire article, click here. )

An outdoor bathhouse

A Restful Garden Retreat

In Traditional Home’s May 2010 issue, a garden retreat found in Portland, Oregon, is featured, and I couldn’t help but pay homage to my home away from home.  The lush foliage that can be cultivated in Willamette Valley is something I miss dearly.   Dulcy and Ted Mahar’s description of how their English garden came about is quite an enjoyable read.  Describing it as creative chaos with more of a focus on foliage than flowers, you will find that they might just be on to something. Click here to read the entire article written by Barbara Mundall and photographed by John Granen.  A lovely couple who are appreciative of life, nature and a bit of whimsy.

All Images Courtesy of Traditional Home.