surprising succulents!

Is it just me? Or has anyone else noticed that succulents are popping up everywhere? I posted about this great birdbath planted with them earlier this summer. My sister-in-law sent me a link to some instructions on making a so-called "living frame" and then my mom pointed out that very same idea in a recent Better Homes and Gardens Magazine. They've even posted the how-to instructions on their website. I think this may just fulfill my need for "new" while I maintain all my existing gardens. And of course, I couldn't help but notice and admire some impressive containers at a recent visit to the Meijer Gardens. The shapes and textures are amazing plus I hear they're a hardy bunch of plants. Bonus! Beautiful and hard to kill. They're in!

From the Better Homes And Gardens August 2011 issue

From the Better Homes and Gardens September 2011 issue
Buy these pre-made planters from artmatters.com

Succulent planters at the Meijer Gardens

Now I have to keep my eyes peeled for just the right frame next time I am out treasure hunting (thrifting!). I am going to have to think about what color I migth want to paint the frames as well. Something bright that pops?  A shade of green or purple to complement the plants within? Natural and weathered? Metallic? Oh the options!

beautiful repurposed birdbath

Still gushing about inspiration from the Ottawa Hills Neighborhood Garden Tour today!

This simple cement birdbath was repurposed as a gorgeous planter! I especially love the use of the dark pebbles around the succulents and cactus. It reminds me a bit of water, which is fitting. I want to add more sculptural elements to my own gardens and this one was very inspiring to me. I especially like that it serves double duty by adding further varieties of plant life to this garden.

succulents of summertime

Ok, I gushed about these last September. And I am still excited about them now. I have seen pots of them at farmer's markets and at local greenhouses. I finally splurged on my own container. Since it is healthy and growing, I think I am going to start one of these frames soon. Ooh la la! Gardening and crafting combined!

Renegade Craft Fair – I never saw it before!

One more post about the Renegade Craft Fair and then I am done talking about it. Until I go again. Which, given my spending this time around, might not be for quite a while!

I once thought I should buy myself a piece of art every year for my birthday. Well, I bought 5 at Renegade alone. So, yes, I should rein myself in and actually get things up on the wall! Anyone else out there have pieces waiting to be hung?

So people, here are some totally awesome things that I have never seen the likes of before. I always admire artists who come up with something unique.

Stanley the Stegosaurus by The Plaid Penguin

Dinosaur planters by The Plaid Penguin
So after the fact I had a few people tell me they have seen these before. Since this was my first encounter with them, the fine folks of The Plaid Penguin get credit from me. There is something very perfect about pairing spiky succulents with spiky plastic creatures. Fun!

Terrarium Teardrop Necklace by With Roots

Jewelry by With Roots
It's beautiful and it's alive. People, you know this is right up my alley! I love nature and I really do think moss is beautiful. So how lovely to wear a tiny little terrarium? I wonder if you have to store it in a place where it gets sun? I am thinking my dark closet does not qualify! Ok, just checked on that. They do indeed need some moderate sunlight.

The Night Job by Lisa Swerling

Detail of The Night Job by Lisa Swerling

Lisa Swerling's Glass Cathedrals
These lovely sparkly boxes with teeny tiny figurines posed in moments that make us human are simply magical. So lovely and amazing and dear and sometimes a bit funny. I just loved them. Please take some time to browse this artist's site.