As I contemplate returning north at the end of the week, I’m considering my next outdoor projects. My front entry garden is very much a work in progress. Last summer, we took out the struggling grass and created a pea pebble parking courtyard. I love the crunch underfoot! We extended the bluestone walkway connecting it to the front stoop.

With the white fence in, the hard scape seems fairly complete. Next I’d like to rip out the boxwoods surrounding the courtyard as they’re not very happy. This is the one area I’d like to see fairly formal. I’m looking to take everything out (except the small tree) on either side of the stoop under the windows. The plan is a backdrop of blue and white hydrangeas. Some of them in bush form and a few tree standards to play with elevation. Next put a dwarf hedge a foot or so in from the Belgian block pavers. That way I can do white annuals and dusty miller in front. I will drop containers here and there. Hoping for a real Hamptons/Cape Cod vibe!

Now to convince Carmine to paint the house a charcoal or grayish Navy Blue.

I really miss having divided lights ( muntins) in the windows. I wish the previous owner had included them when they built the house. Since it is such a traditional looking colonial, those blank expanses of glass create a rather sterile look. Not sure if I should contact the window manufacturer and get the snap in place variety. I will definitely speak to a carpenter about making them. My concern would be how to attach them, however. These new style all weather windows make alterations really difficult.

I’m considering four or six divides over one single for the taller sash windows. I think dividing the transoms into three lights can do the trick. I cannot but feel the divided lights will give my house more soul.

Getting truly excited to be engulfed in my garden this summer. The house is calling. And we are on countdown.