Seafair, a Hurricane’s Tale

There’s always a story in Newport and as we head into hurricane season, this gripping tale from my book, Private Newport, deserves to be retold. Few in Newport recognize Seafair… Read More

Invitation to a Fantasy Engagement Party

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I’m all for fanciful and fantasy moments, especially when they are in the garden and occasioned by a specific plant in bloom. And can then serve as inspiration for an… Read More

A Splendid Affair! Coaching Returns to Newport

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An equestrian sport, a tradition and a social pastime, Coaching Weekend was introduced to America in the1880s by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt. It’s first venue was Newport and 130 years later… Read More

Out and About with Private Newport

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Whew, summer in Newport has seemed a long time in coming! But once that sun appeared and the breezes started, there was already a varied selection of guests, get togethers… Read More

Smell the Roses

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Would they…or wouldn’t they? Roses, an always anticipated category in the Newport Flower Show, can keep us on pins and needles awaiting their bloom time. But they burst forth with… Read More

The Colors of Summer: The Parterre Bench

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This post is a tribute to my mother, whose birthday was June 25th. A beautiful, kind, gracious, Southern belle, she just happened to adore Shirley poppies…which just happen to bloom… Read More

Inspiring Garden Design: A Daffodil Landscape in Dallas

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Timing, as they say, is everything in life…especially when it comes to gardens. A lovely invitation to speak at the Fort Worth Garden Center gave me the opportunity to enjoy… Read More

Inspiring Garden Design: Italian Sensibilities in Huntsville, Alabama

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As a garden aficionado, nothing gives me greater pleasure, nor inspires more anticipation, than visiting a new green paradise. And when you are very, very lucky you may be rewarded… Read More

Chasing Away the Winter Doldrums

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Waking on a gray, rainy day two weeks ago, I found myself yearning for a pick-up. Little did I know that a surprise was awaiting me on my sun porch…a… Read More

Inspiring Garden Design: 7 Key Points for Creating Garden Rooms

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When invited to speak in New Orleans at a garden club fundraiser, I was asked specifically to talk about the ins and outs of creating my own garden. But, of… Read More