From the day Dan and I married, I have always had a garden.  One of the first things I do when we move into a new home, is plant flowers.  There is something about getting my hands dirty, working the soil, and creating my flower beds in my mind and on paper.  I am like a kid in a candy store exploring the local nurseries. 

This weekend was no different.  Although, lugging soil, window boxes, tables, chairs and plants took a lot longer and more planning. 

Our little garden has been in the works for a couple of weeks.  I have made purchases here and there and lugged them home using "les wheels" (my workhorse) and my son (my other workhorse).  He is so much like his Father; so very capable, such a helper and so strong. 

I was certain that my flower boxes would have red geraniums.  I can't wait for them to spill over the sides of the railing.  I have a shady corner on the balcony and purchased a beautiful lace fern, a bright pink fuschia along with a fragrant gardenia. 

Walk into our apartment, look to the right and this is what you will see.  It puts an instant smile on my face.  I love pretty things, I love little vignettes of beautiful spaces.  This little balcony is my new outdoor room. 

Wrought iron and the beautiful scrollwork takes my breath away.  The bright white chairs make it pop.

We have two balconies that get morning sunlight.  One is large enough for a few plants and the table and chairs.  The other is not very deep and holds two window boxes and a small ivy.

Max and I enjoying the morning sun, and a cup of coffee from my favorite mug my Dad sent to me.  I think of him every morning, I somehow love him even more than I thought possible 5000 miles away from his caring eyes and winning smile. 

I adore the morning sunlight spilling into our living and dining room, I am so thankful that I have a place to sit and watch the world go by.  I am so glad that the kids enjoy our new outdoor room; they have already sat coloring and eating snacks.  I am tickled that Dan loves it, that he takes the time to squirm into the tiny chairs, knees knocking against the table, sun in his eyes, admiring our new room.