Some of my most treasured childhood memories are painted in the vibrant colors of my Opa’s hillside garden. This wasn’t just any garden—it was a masterpiece that took years to create, transforming a steep slope into what felt like my own personal Disneyland. 😂
Picture this: winding paths that led you through completely different worlds. One moment you’d be wandering through an English countryside section, complete with thistle and ivy. Turn a corner, and you’d discover a tranquil pond he’d built himself, complete with aquatic plants and fish. Keep exploring, and you’d find yourself under Italian-style grape arbors, their wooden supports heavy with cascading vines.
But here’s the secret every kid knew—if you could sneak away from the adults and get there first, the tiny wild strawberries hidden in another section were pure summer magic. Each area had its own personality, separated by those meandering paths that would dip and climb through terraced sections. Standing at the garden’s edge, you could look back and see the whole property: the house, workshop, and wood storage—each its own little adventure waiting to happen.
Those summer visits didn’t just shape my love for gardening; they planted seeds (pun intended!) for how I’d later approach the projects my parents tackled when we moved to Texas.
Now, I’ll be honest—most of my gardening attempts have followed the same pattern: explosive enthusiasm in spring, followed by a quick surrender when Texas summer heat becomes unbearable. But something shifted these past couple years as my focus moved from life’s constant hustle to embracing the pause.
And this year? We’re off to an incredible start.
Instead of rushing headfirst into my full garden vision (because let’s be real, that’s usually where I burn out), I’m taking my time. What a blessing this extra rain and cooler weather has been! As we continue adding to the beds, I’m watching the space grow and evolve naturally—just like Opa’s garden did.
I can already see it in my mind: vegetables growing to nourish our family, friends, and neighbors. Flowers blooming to support our pollinators and inspire new artwork. A peaceful retreat where I can start and end each day with gratitude, away from the world’s noise.
The best part? This is just the beginning. I can’t wait to share this journey with you and watch this space transform over time—one thoughtful addition at a time.
With a grateful heart,
Samantha
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